Why Metal Service Centers Need MES Systems to Compete

Customers are looking for suppliers that can provide value-added services like drilling, painting, bending and assembling. Metal service centers face big changes in the transformation from distributor to manufacturer. Complex materials management, labor resources and production scheduling require more than basic software can provide. Metal service centers need stronger MES systems to compete in this digital age.

In this eBook, The Rules Have Changed: How Metal Service Centers Must Adapt to Survive, we’ll show you how the rules are changing in the metals industry and what you need to adapt to survive during this transformation.

Customers Want MORE from Metal Service Centers

A lot has changed in the metals industry and metal services centers are struggling to pick up the slack. Customers want more from metal service centers than just product. They require additional processing services, which also supplements thinning profit margins. However, these new value-added services also introduce new challenges. In addition to strong inventory managment, businesses need to be able to schedule resources, including labor and machines, and monitor outsourced activities. These activities exceed the limits of spreadsheets and traditional distribution software.

4 Benefits to Modern Manufacturing Software

Download our eBook and you’ll see why ERP software designed for the metals industry is essential for metal service centers to compete in this digital age. Here are four benefits to modern manufacturing software that you can’t achieve with legacy systems.

Schedule resources: More processing, machines and labor needs requires additional oversight and management. Keeping track of activities using manual means or spreadsheets is inefficient and risky. Modern manufacturing software automates tracking of inventory and production activities. Operators are able to enter actuals for each job, including usage, quality issues and remnants. Schedule resources quickly and accurately to keep production on target, protect promise dates, and improve productivity and profitability.
Optimize production: A proper MES (manufacturing execution system) found in today’s manufacturing software will deliver continuous order visibility at every step of processing, including outsourced processing. From sales through shipping, orders will flow through the system delivering data from every aspect of operations. You’ll have actual production data, including scrap, sheers, break weights, additional cuts, outsourced processes and semi-finished and finished goods.
Manage finances: Centralizing data within a single, integrated manufacturing system will arm leaders with the information needed to improve operational efficiency, monitor product line profitability and take advantage of marketplace trends. Gain a unified view of operations with full visibility into materials, labor, overhead and outside processing. Manage finances in manufacturing software to gain a 360-degree view of your business.
Utilize reporting to drive growth: Today’s integrated manufacturing systems deliver relevant data with powerful reporting and business intelligence features. Management tools enable managers to dig deep into the details of tracking operations and profit margins. By evaluating real-time events, including down-time, operator errors and material problems, you’ll be able to respond faster to exceptions and make informed decisions. Unlock the power of your data and utilize reporting to drive growth and profits.

Build Your Business with RealSTEEL

Metal service centers face big changes in the transformation from distributor to manufacturer. It’s time to replace legacy systems with a powerful ERP system built just for your industry. In our eBook, you’ll see how today’s manufacturing systems support metal service centers with more efficiency and accuracy than can be found in spreadsheets and traditional distribution software. Please contact us for for help replacing your outdated systems with modern technology.