The role of MES dashboards in the digital transformation of production

Michael Möller

6 min

Updated:

Published:

February 24, 2025

Digitalization in the manufacturing industry is advancing rapidly. Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) play a central role in this process by monitoring, controlling, and optimizing production workflows. A key component of modern MES are dashboards that visualize real-time production data and prepare it for better decision-making. But how exactly do these dashboards contribute to the digital transformation of production?

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Why Are MES Dashboards So Important?

MES dashboards are far more than just a "pretty interface" for displaying data. They are a critical tool for making production processes more efficient and for instantly identifying bottlenecks or weak points on the shopfloor.

1. Real-time monitoring for maximum efficiency

One of the biggest advantages of MES dashboards is real-time data capture. Companies can respond immediately to disruptions, machine downtime, or bottlenecks—minimizing outages and improving overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).

Example: A production line goes down due to a machine defect. Without a dashboard, employees would have to navigate multiple systems to locate the issue. With an MES dashboard, the fault is displayed immediately—and can even include recommended actions.

2. Data consolidation from multiple sources

Modern manufacturing requires access to live data. Direct connections to sensors, control systems, and IIoT devices (e.g., via protocols like MQTT or OPC UA) allow real-time visibility into production status and enable timely decision-making. Dashboards and andon boards consolidate these data sources in one place, providing a holistic view of the factory floor.

3. Better decision-making through visualization

Data alone has no value if it can't be interpreted. MES dashboards present complex production metrics in a clear, accessible way—enabling even non-experts to make informed decisions based on reliable data.

How to successfully implement an MES dashboard
To unlock the full potential of an MES dashboard, careful planning is essential. Key steps include:

Needs assessment – Which KPIs matter most to your company? Define clear objectives for your dashboard.
System integration – The dashboard must integrate seamlessly with existing ERP and machine control systems.
User-friendly design – A clear interface with intuitive visualizations improves usability and drives team adoption.
Employee training – The system can only be effective if everyone involved understands how to use it.

Conclusion
MES dashboards are a vital element of digital transformation in manufacturing. They provide transparency, streamline operations, and enable real-time, data-driven decisions. Companies that invest in modern dashboards position themselves for long-term efficiency and competitiveness.

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