To boost efficiency in manufacturing, two key factors are crucial: advanced scheduling and collecting data from the plant floor. Both are essential for reducing waste, maximizing machine utilization,...
To boost efficiency in manufacturing, two key factors are crucial: advanced scheduling and collecting data from the plant floor.
Both are essential for reducing waste, maximizing machine utilization, and meeting ever-increasing customer expectations.
But the question remains - what should come first? Should businesses gather data before improving their scheduling, or does better scheduling lead to improved data collection?
Each MES application drives real results in its own right. Your business’s unique challenges will determine the right approach. Let’s explore both perspectives to find the best starting point for operational improvement.
Contents
- The Case for Data Collection First
- The Case for Scheduling First
- Finding the right balance
- The Path to Optimization
- How We Can Help
The Case for Data Collection First
Some say that without accurate, real-time data, scheduling improvements rely more on assumptions rather than solid facts. That’s why it can make sense to start by focusing on data collection from the plant floor.
- Better Visibility for Informed Decisions
Without real-time production data, scheduling relies on outdated or inaccurate assumptions about machine performance, shift efficiency, and bottlenecks.
- Accurate Benchmarking
Data collection establishes a baseline for OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness), allowing manufacturers to track progress once scheduling optimizations are in place.
- Identifying Hidden Inefficiencies
Gathering data first reveals downtime, waste, and quality issues before changing schedules. - Improved Quality & Compliance
Automated defect tracking and resin recipe monitoring ensure quality control measures are in place before increasing production throughput.
The Case for Scheduling First
On the other hand, some producers find that optimizing scheduling before implementing a comprehensive data collection system delivers improvements to their manufacturing process.
Here’s why:
- Immediate Gains in Machine Utilization
Advanced scheduling systems can improve output and reduce idle time even without real-time data. They do this by using past trends and production logic.
- Faster Response to Demand Fluctuations
A well-structured scheduling system helps manufacturers adapt to urgent orders, material shortages, and production changes without major disruptions.
- Minimized Changeovers & Downtime
Optimizing scheduling first ensures that production runs are sequenced efficiently, even before detailed data insights are available.
- Foundation for Smarter Data Use
Implementing scheduling first provides a structured framework for how plant floor data will be used. This ensures that collected data is relevant and actionable.
Finding the Right Balance
The best approach is not just one or the other. It is about combining both strategies to create the most impact. In many cases, manufacturers take a hybrid approach:
- Start with Data Collection on Key Areas
Implementing basic real-time monitoring of machine performance, defects, and material usage provides a foundation for decision-making. - Introduce Advanced Scheduling to Optimize Production
Once initial data insights are available, scheduling can be fine-tuned to maximize efficiency and minimize waste. - Expand Data Collection to Support Continuous Improvement
As scheduling becomes more precise, deeper analytics on downtime causes, energy consumption, and operator performance can drive further refinements.
The Path to Optimization
Ultimately, the best starting point depends on your businesses current level of digital maturity. If your data is inaccurate or non-existent, starting with basic data collection is the logical first step. However, if your production process suffers from inefficiencies arising from poor sequencing and long changeovers, scheduling improvements may provide the fastest return on investment.
The manufacturer's particular circumstances and business goals will determine the significant guiding factor. With packaging technology solutions to enhance advanced planning and scheduling and shop plant floor visibility, we can implement both or one first. This depends on your specific needs. We have the experience in technical sales and professional services to guide you and help validate your choice.
How We Can Help
Whether you want to improve scheduling, enhance data collection, or integrate both for a seamless operation, we’re here to help.
Contact our team to explore how we can support you to drive improved efficiency, reduce waste, and increase profits.
