Critical factors in the implementation of an APS system

The implementation of an APS is a complex project, consisting of different phases, which require specific resources and skills to be executed with quality. Thus, it is necessary to consider the main critical factors of success in the implementation of an APS system, which will be presented below. Key user initially must be distinguished between a transactional system and an analytical system. While in the first the operation and the results are simple and predictable, in an expert and analytical system as APS software the operation requires a much more significant cognitive and analysis effort, so that a well-chosen key user can make all the difference between simple software operation for a much more proactive scenario simulation and decision making-based model.

• Companies often make the wrong decision to define the key user as the person with the most experience and knowledge in the PPC field, but in practice, this professional already has many other responsibilities and won't have the focus or time necessary to operationalize the system. These individuals should be involved in the project and are essential for defining business rules, but they aren't necessarily the ideal key user for the tool;
• An important factor to be highlighted is the technological predisposition and computational dexterity of the professional. Although no previous knowledge in system development is required, a prior experience with the operationalization and deployment of other software and well -developed logical reasoning are also favorable to the ideal profile of an APS software user;
• Finally, it's important to recognize some broader competencies that can be very useful for the effective use of the solution. Negotiation and communication skills, for example, are especially important, considering all the interfaces involved in PPC decisions, such as production, sales, supply, and IT.

Data Quality The term "shit in, shit out" didn't become popular by chance. There's no denying it; input data quality is crucial for the successful use of an APS tool. This is especially true for many companies, where manufacturing schedules, when they exist, were created solely for the costing system. However, it's also important to emphasize that no company has all the data necessary for a robust APS system implementation. Even though many believe they have complete and reliable data, when the first simulation reveals bottlenecks in an unimportant production resource, for example, the need to improve the records becomes clear. In addition to the basic data, some information that would never be necessary before a scheduling system, such as a setup matrix from/to, is unlikely to be available before the project begins. And this isn't necessarily a problem; the biggest mistake is trying to anticipate and be completely ready before starting the project, because experience shows that either the project will take too long to start or it will never get off the ground. In practice, an implementation project should allow enough space for key data collection and review processes to be performed during implementation, in a prioritized and targeted manner. Therefore, rather than trying to have everything ready before starting the project, the focus should be on ensuring a robust data collection and updating process. How can open production orders not be forgotten? How will the purchasing team update the actual availability of raw materials when suppliers delay deliveries? How often will performance indices and process times be reviewed? These are the questions managers must address to ensure data reliability. Team Engagement : Implementing APS can significantly transform a company, but for this to happen, it's crucial that all departments are actively involved. What doesn't work is a top-down decision by management to implement the system, with the execution being carried out in isolation by the IT or PPC , for example. From the beginning of the initial diagnostic and specification phases, it's necessary to seek the commitment and participation of different areas of the company. The engineering team needs to be present, as they will be a key ally in preparing the data needed to improve records. The sales department needs to be involved, as the process of promising mes times and tracking orders can be significantly impacted by the use of finite-capacity software. The procurement department plays an important role in ensuring follow-up with suppliers and updating actual material delivery dates. IT needs to be present, as it has extensive influence on the configuration and scope that the system can have within the company's integrated management process. Even mes maintenance team should be involved to explore the advantages of integrating the corrective maintenance process and rapid rescheduling, or properly provisioned preventive maintenance. Autonomous IT: It's not necessarily a rule, but experience shows that when a company has significant autonomy in integrating, configuring, and modifying its systems, the implementation project flows more naturally and can be more tightly integrated with processes. Ideally, the company's internal IT team is autonomous and responsive to production needs, but in many cases, a trusted vendor can also effectively meet the project's needs. Integration between ERP and APS doesn't necessarily have to be complicated, but sometimes with greater flexibility, it's possible to take advantage of application opportunities that the traditional integration model wouldn't cover, although this may require greater effort from the IT team. Choosing the right software and consulting services : Finally, an often-overlooked factor is the importance of choosing the right software and the best implementation consulting services. Looking for shortcuts when choosing technology, whether because there's a more basic system that could be purchased without budget approval or because one of the options is from the mes existing vendor, is one of the reasons why companies experience so much frustration and delays in developing their management system. Before deciding to purchase any tool, make sure the chosen solution is sufficient to meet all current PPC and, even more importantly, that it's comprehensive and flexible enough to meet future improvement opportunities that will arise after the company takes its first steps. In this sense, choosing the right consulting firm to support the software implementation is also crucial to the project's success. Look for a company with recognized professionals and cases , preferably in the mes segment as your business. An innovative profile and technological proficiency are also crucial and can make the difference between a basic project that has stabilized and a technologically advanced solution that is constantly evolving. [noptin-form id=2822]