How to Gain Value from Manufacturing Operations Software

<p>In this episode of <em>MESA Knows Smart Manufacturing</em>, ChrisMonchinski sits down with Julie Fraser of Tech-Clarity and key sponsors to discuss an important new industry initiative: the 2026 Business Value and Evolution of Manufacturing Operations Software (MOS) Study. </p><p>The conversation explores how the definition of manufacturing operations software has expanded beyond traditional MES to include a broader Level 3 ecosystem—encompassingquality, scheduling, inventory and warehouse management, EHS, maintenance (CMMS), connected worker technologies, and increasingly, AI-driven capabilities. </p><p>Julie, Glynn, Ryan and Rick share the origins of the research and explains why now is a pivotal moment for manufacturers to reassess their investments. With rapid advances indigital transformation and AI, companies are no longer just implementing MES—they are building integrated, plant-wide operational platforms designed to deliver measurable business value.  </p><p>A central theme of the discussion is value realization. The episode dives into:</p><ul><li>What is driving current investments in MOS </li><li>The top business benefits manufacturers are seeing, from operational efficiency to improved decision-making </li><li>What organizations must do to ensure successful implementations, including alignment, planning, and realistic expectations </li><li>How long it typically takes to start seeing measurable returns </li></ul><p>The conversation also tackles one of the most pressing topics in the industry today: the role of AI in manufacturing operations. Julie outlines how AI is not a replacement for core systems like MES, but rather a complementary layer that enhances analytics,optimization, and decision support across the Level 3 stack.  Importantly, the episode addresses common misconceptions in the market, helping listeners separate hype from practicalapplication—especially as vendors position AI-enabled solutions.</p><p>We conclude with a preview of what’s next:</p><ul><li>A global survey launching in spring 2026 </li><li>A comprehensive research report, infographic, and webinar to follow in the fall </li></ul><p>This initiative, led by MESA International and Tech-Clarity, aims to provide the industry with a much-needed, data-driven perspective on how manufacturers can truly capturebusiness value from their digital investments.</p>