What is a Cloud MES?
MES developers like iBase-t provide and update the software application, while the cloud vendor maintains the hardware, infrastructure, and hosting access. End users can wield the full power of the MES from anywhere with an internet connection without needing to procure and maintain on-premise infrastructure.
Cloud MES software removes the burden of physical infrastructure and extended IT staff. Instead, technology is offloaded to the cloud, making it affordable and practical for most manufacturers.
Cloud-based MES is changing the playing field for manufacturers because it lowers the cost and risk of entry. This means that even smaller and emerging manufacturers can now afford to use world-class MES solutions.
The Cloud MES market is forecasted to reach $2.34 billion by 2026. (IOT Analytics)
Manufacturers aren’t choosing cloud MES just because the technology is practical. The cost-savings, operational improvements, and overall agility of cloud MES can’t be matched by paper systems or old technologies.
As you advance up the pyramid of digital transformation, cloud MES will play a critical role in providing visibility across your manufacturing enterprise.
Leverage the Cloud with Confidence
The potential benefits are great, but there are key factors and business philosophies that every executive should know as they lead a cloud deployment of MES and/or MRO. This eBook discusses some of the most important factors and provides insights into how iBase-t approaches them.
What’s the Difference Between Cloud-Based MES and Cloud-Native MES?
Not all cloud solutions are equal and it’s important to understand the difference. “Cloud-based” is a general term that applies to any application that’s available over the cloud and may be accessed on a subscription basis.
Why does it matter? Because some applications available on the cloud are simply legacy applications that have been migrated over. They offer the advantages of a subscription, but not much more.
Cloud-native MES, is designed from the ground up to take full advantage of the cloud and modern technologies. They are future-ready by design. Based on microservices technology, a cloud-native architecture offers many benefits over traditional applications, including improved scalability, reliability, and maintainability.
Microservices and Cloud-Native Architecture
A core feature of cloud-native applications like Solumina MES is a microservices architecture. In this architecture, applications are built as modular services that can be deployed independently. This makes it easier for MES developers to update applications, and it enables manufacturers to plan and deploy their applications in a modular and targeted way – so they only pay for functionality they actually need.
What Are The Benefits Of Using Cloud-Native MES?
Faster Deployment
Cloud MES solutions deploy quickly, resulting in cost savings and faster time to value compared to an on-premises counterpart.
Scalability
Cloud MES solutions can be scaled quickly since they require no infrastructure investment
Low Risk
Without having to make major investments in hardware and software, manufacturers can deploy in careful, modular stages over the cloud, eliminating most of the risk.
Convert CapEx to OpEx Spending
Subscribing to a cloud MES frees up much-needed capital that manufacturers can use for R&D, production capacity, and other essential activities.
Lightweight
Lower resource demands free up IT teams and require much less oversight after deployment. Upgrades are streamlined and automatic.
Accessibility
Cloud solutions make it possible for users to authenticate and securely access MES software from anywhere with an internet connection.
Using Cloud MES to Become a Model-Based Enterprise
Cloud MES is a key prerequisite for a Model-Based Enterprise (MBE) strategy. MBE unlocks the value of engineering models to automate downstream processes, improve efficiency, lower costs, and increase quality. It has the potential to help manufacturers become more competitive and responsive to market opportunities today and more resilient in the face of disruptions in the future.
Deploying a Cloud MES
Cloud-based MES solutions like Solumina are delivered over the cloud by subscription, so deploying to new users or plants is relatively easy. It removes most of the risk as well as initial costs of most deployments. By leveraging the cloud, you can pick and choose the applications and functions as needed. A manufacturer will generally choose on of the following deployment strategies depending on the size and needs of their enterprise:
Deploy the Solution Quickly
Deploy in Stages and Fund as You Go
What About Cloud MES Security?
Major cloud service providers such as Microsoft and Amazon provide a high level of security—often higher than most manufacturers could achieve on their own. Some cloud providers even offer DoD IL5 security as an option.
Solumina MES can be deployed on an AWS Virtual Private Cloud (VPC), which keeps all resources labeled and privately within that network. There is a dedicated virtual channel from the iBase-t corporate ISP to AWS VPC that hosts Solumina instances. As a result, all information stays under customer control. Azure and Gov Cloud deployments are also available.
Remember: cybersecurity also depends on the manufacturer following best practices, not just on the software or the internet. Establish and enforce strong security measures so that only approved personnel have access to your systems.
Cloud MES or On-premise?
While cloud MES offers many advantages, some manufacturers may still choose an on-premise solution for reasons of security, control, regulatory compliance, or internet availability. Some organizations land in the middle. Hybrid deployments use elements to let manufacturers maintain their own infrastructure while also using cloud technology. There’s no one right answer but here are a few considerations.
Scalability and Flexibility
On-premise applications can’t equal the cloud when it comes to scaling and agility. This may be one of the strongest arguments for cloud MES.
You can read a more in-depth discussion of cloud vs. on-premise.
Accessibility
Cloud MES is accessible to everyone with an internet connection. That includes most people, but not all. For businesses in remote or rural areas with limited or unreliable internet connectivity, on-premise computing might be the only practical option.
Technical Debt
Technical debt is the cost of reworking technology over time due to previous “quick fixes” or shortcuts in its development or maintenance. The continual patching of aging on-premise technology can be a major source of technical debt for organizations. Cloud MES provides access to ongoing updates from the developer, ensuring that you won’t be stuck with old technology.
Up-front Costs
The decision of cloud or on-premise might be a financial one. On-premise solutions require substantial capital to fund hardware, software, and supporting staff, while cloud MES dramatically reduces implementation costs and capital investment.
Security
For an enterprise with strong cybersecurity teams, on-premise systems can be the most secure choice. However, a cloud MES can offer greater security than many manufacturers would be able to provide themselves.
Data Storage
Consider the amount of data you’ll be storing. A fully digitized manufacturing plant produces vast amounts of data, much of which you’ll need to store and access. Make sure you have a handle on data storage demands before you commit to a fully on-premise solution.
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