6 Common MES Myths Debunked

The Truth About Modern MES for Life Sciences Manufacturing

Is your organization still relying on paper-based processes due to concerns about implementing a traditional manufacturing execution system (MES)? This industry brief challenges six common misconceptions about manufacturing execution systems in life sciences. Discover how modern, cloud-based manufacturing execution software provides a cost-effective path to digitization—allowing you to streamline production records, training documents, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) while improving quality and compliance. Learn why next-generation MES technology makes digitization accessible for organizations of any size without the traditional barriers of cost and complexity.

  • Understand why implementation timeframes can now be measured in months instead of years.
  • See how no-code configuration eliminates the need for expensive customization and technical support.
  • See how you can realize concrete ROI metrics like 90% fewer data errors, 80% faster GMP reviews, and 25% fewer deviations.

Why Digitising Life Sciences Manufacturing Matters: Addressing the 70% Gap

While most life sciences manufacturers recognise the value of digitisation, approximately 70% of manufacturing processes remain paper-based due to the high cost and complexity of conventional manufacturing execution system solutions. This creates significant challenges for compliance, traceability, and operational efficiency. Modern MES technology is changing this reality by offering affordable, flexible alternatives to traditional systems. Instead of requiring your processes to adapt to rigid software, today's manufacturing execution software adapts to your existing workflows—making digitisation accessible across all production lines and sites, regardless of volume or variability. The right MES solution can deliver measurable improvements in efficiency, quality, and time-to-market. 

Common Questions: Modern MES Explained

What differentiates modern MES solutions from legacy systems?

Modern manufacturing execution systems offer cloud-based accessibility, user-friendly interfaces, and flexible configuration without coding. They focus on operator experience and can be implemented in months rather than years. 

Can MES be cost-justified for all production lines?

Yes. Unlike traditional systems, modern MES solutions offer flexible pricing models that make digitisation cost-effective across all lines, including high-mix, low-volume, and highly customised products. 

How does validation work with modern MES?

Today's MES solutions employ risk-based, automated validation that reduces validation time from months to days. Patented technologies can simplify upgrade paths and enable sustainable validation in the cloud. 

What ROI can life sciences manufacturers expect from a modern MES?

Companies typically see initial ROI within four to eight months, with documented improvements including 90% fewer data errors, 80% faster GMP review, and 50% faster product release.   

Get the Facts About Modern MES for Life Sciences

Download our industry brief to separate MES myth from reality. 

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A Purpose-Built MES for Life Sciences Manufacturing

MasterControl Manufacturing Excellence (Mx) delivers the benefits of digitisation without the traditional barriers of cost, complexity, and lengthy implementation timelines. 

  • Fast Implementation

    Deploy in under six months with minimal IT resources and without disrupting operations.

  • Simple Configuration

    Create and modify digital production records—no coding required—using familiar templates that resemble your existing processes.

  • Proven ROI

    Achieve measurable results like 90% fewer data errors and 25% fewer deviations within months of implementation.

  • Complete Coverage

    Cost-effectively digitise all production lines, including those traditionally left paper-based after MES implementation.

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