Electronics Manufacturing Software

Electronic manufacturers run the gamete from small shops specializing in purpose-build, single-use, and prototype devices to large billion-dollar behemoths churning out TVs, computers, and MP3 players for the global market. Those companies that fall in between include: chip foundries that make core components, those that make precision equipment such as medical diagnostic devices, and certified equipment manufacturers such as for slot machines and voting systems.

Regardless of the type of electronics manufacturer, each needs excellent supply chain management (SCM). Many electronic components are made by a single or small number of suppliers. If there is a supply chain disruption, production can limited by materials on-hand. Inventory, order entry, order placement and receiving are the most important modules of an electronics manufacturer’s management system. Manufacturing planning and scheduling are also important; these systems must also produce compliance reports as required. The key aspect is to have systems that can integrate directly with suppliers’ accounting systems to confirm stock status, shipping times, order status, and current pricing.

General ledger, accounts receivable, and payroll are standard. As part of supply chain management, accounts payable may link directly to supplier’s accounting systems for electronic payments. Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, integrating all aspects of managing operations, are common in electronics manufacturers but best-of-breed solutions are used as well. On-premises systems are the rule, but cloud-based manufacturing systems are becoming increasingly popular.

Key Requirements for Electronic Manufacturers

To address their unique business requirements, electronic manufacturers should evaluate the following functions: