Compare Epicor Advanced MES vs. Machestra

Epicor Advanced Manufacturing Execution System is designed for plastic molders, manufacturers who use repetitive processes and those who have an assembly process that involves multiple machines. It is designed to assist floor operators in monitoring and optimizing their plant operations. Advanced MES helps manufacturers monitor their business and control it with real-time information on plant and machinery. The system allows users to identify inefficient allocations of resources to find new capacity for the business. It can also be used to record machine downtime, scrap and material waste in each production cycle. The software provides real-time monitoring of processes, scheduling in real time and visibility into operations. Users can view production details and descriptors and monitor up to 100,000 cycles. Maintenance teams can access machine condition reports for planning preventive maintenance. Advanced MES integrates accounting and manufacturing estimating capability.

Machestra is a comprehensive solution for production scheduling and shop floor management tailored specifically for small manufacturers operating between 3 to 30 machines. It eliminates the hassle of spreadsheets, whiteboards, and shared calendars by providing a centralized platform to manage machines, personnel, materials, and schedules effectively. The system focuses on four key functions and intentionally avoids any additional complexity. Each job is divided into distinct operations, with each operation assigned to its own machine, operator, and designated time frame, allowing for precise tracking of a part's journey through processes like turning, milling, and inspection, rather than relying on estimations. The scheduling board displays commitments for every machine, preventing double bookings and enhancing workflow efficiency. Additionally, each operation logs its actual start and finish times compared to initial plans, progressively refining lead time estimates with every completed job. Machestra offers a flat pricing structure based on the number of machines without imposing per-user fees, making it cost-effective for teams to adopt without incurring extra expenses. The entry-level Starter plan is available for $19 per month, while the Growth plan costs $79 per month, with prices adjusted according to local purchasing power. Notably, the service is free for users managing up to three machines, requiring no credit card information and having no time constraints for use. This user-friendly approach makes Machestra an appealing choice for small manufacturers looking to streamline their operations.