Using a Manufacturing Execution System (MES) in a Project Based Learning Context in the Master Degree in Organisational and Logistics Engineering

Abstract

[EN] In this article the use of a Manufacturing Execution System (MES) in the Information Systems and Supply and Demand Management subjects is illustrated based on the project-based learning methodology. These subjects belong to the University Master¿s Degree in Organisational and Logistics Engineering (MOLE) given at the Campus of Alcoy of the Universitat Politècnica de València. The objective of this Master is to train professionals who will be able to analyze, model, design, implement and improve complex systems in order to offer products and services with the highest possible productivity, quality, reliability and efficiency. In this sense, one of the specific skills to be acquired by its graduates is the ability to select and implement the most appropriate information systems and information and communication technologies to support the information flows through the various departments of the company such as purchasing, logistics, production, processes, costs, human resources, etc. Therefore, firstly, the MOLE Degree is globally presented, contextualizing the subjects previously mentioned by focusing on skills, and on coordinating and organizing the subject and teaching-learning methodologies whose thematic units are also detailed. According Bridgefield Group [1] a MES is a production scheduling and control system for analyzing and reporting resources availabilities, planning production orders and collecting detailed manufacturing data. In this sense, the main characteristics of MES are overviewed focusing on the benefits they can offer to industrial companies. Subsequently, the MESView software [2], the MES software selected to be used in practical classes of the related subjects, is analyzed focusing on its most outstanding features. A case study inspired by an industrial company that currently uses MESView for tracking its manufacturing activities is presented and considered for developing the practical classes of Information Systems and Supply and Demand Management subjects with this software. The main contribution of this communication is to illustrate the use of a commercial MES in the MOLE, so that it can serve as a reference point for the elaboration of teaching materials in the field of subjects related to information systems and production management.