FreedomDev
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Your Dedicated Dev Partner. Zero Hiring Risk. No Agency Contracts.

201 W Washington Ave, Ste. 210

Zeeland MI

616-737-6350

[email protected]

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Industry Solutions

Manufacturing Software Development: 68% of Small Manufacturers Still Run on Excel

Understanding the manufacturing industry's unique challenges and opportunities in software development.

Manufacturing
20+ Years Manufacturing Experience
Zeeland, MI — Michigan Manufacturing Heartland
SCADA / MES / ERP Full Stack
ISA-95 & OPC-UA Integration

MES vs. ERP: Do You Need Both? (And What's the Difference)

68% of small manufacturers still use Excel as their primary production planning tool. 88% of those spreadsheets contain material errors that translate directly into production failures. FreedomDev builds custom manufacturing software — MES systems, shop floor data collection, ERP integrations with Epicor/SAP, and real-time production dashboards — for the SCADA → MES → ERP data flow that modern manufacturing requires. Our expertise helps manufacturers like you overcome the limitations of manual processes and outdated systems.

The manufacturing industry is no stranger to complex workflows and stringent regulations. From tracking Work-In-Progress (WIP) on the shop floor to ensuring compliance with industry standards, manufacturers face unique challenges that require tailored software solutions. At FreedomDev, we understand these challenges and have extensive experience developing custom software that addresses the specific needs of manufacturers.

One of the most critical decisions manufacturers face is whether to implement a Manufacturing Execution System (MES) or an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. While both systems play crucial roles in modern manufacturing, they serve distinct purposes. Understanding the differences between MES and ERP is essential for making informed decisions about your manufacturing software infrastructure.

By partnering with FreedomDev, manufacturers can leverage our expertise in systems integration, custom software development, and data analytics to create a tailored solution that meets their unique needs. Our team of experts works closely with clients to understand their challenges and develop software that drives efficiency, productivity, and profitability.

Manufacturing

Ready to Modernize Your Operations?

We specialize in building custom software for your industry. Tell us what you're dealing with.

  • Industry-specific experience and insight
  • Solutions built around your actual workflows
  • Zero-risk engagement — no long-term contracts
68%
Small manufacturers still using Excel for production planning
88%
Spreadsheets containing material errors leading to production failures
$1.2 trillion
Annual losses due to inefficient manufacturing processes
25%
Average reduction in production costs through MES implementation
40%
Increase in OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness) with real-time monitoring
90%
Manufacturers reporting improved quality control with custom software
3x
Return on investment (ROI) for manufacturers adopting custom ERP solutions
50%
Reduction in cycle time achieved through optimized production workflows

Industry Challenges We Solve

Inaccurate Production Planning

Manual data entry and reliance on spreadsheets lead to errors and inefficiencies in production planning, resulting in wasted resources and reduced productivity. These inaccuracies can have a ripple effect throughout the entire production process, leading to delays and increased costs. Moreover, the lack of real-time visibility into production planning makes it difficult to respond to changes in demand or unexpected disruptions. By automating production planning, manufacturers can reduce errors and improve efficiency.

Limited Shop Floor Visibility

Lack of real-time visibility into shop floor operations makes it difficult to track WIP, monitor machine performance, and respond to production disruptions. This limited visibility can lead to reduced productivity, increased costs, and decreased customer satisfaction. Furthermore, without real-time data, manufacturers struggle to make informed decisions about production planning, inventory management, and resource allocation. By implementing real-time monitoring systems, manufacturers can gain the visibility they need to optimize production.

Inefficient Data Collection

Manual data collection using clipboards and whiteboards leads to errors, delays, and inefficiencies in production tracking and reporting. This manual process is not only time-consuming but also prone to errors, which can have significant consequences for production planning and inventory management. By automating data collection, manufacturers can reduce errors, improve efficiency, and gain real-time visibility into production operations.

Inadequate Quality Control

Insufficient quality control measures lead to defective products, recalls, and damage to brand reputation. Inadequate quality control can result from a lack of real-time monitoring, inadequate training, or insufficient resources. By implementing robust quality control measures, manufacturers can reduce defects, improve product quality, and protect their brand reputation.

Difficulty Integrating Systems

Challenges integrating MES, ERP, and other systems lead to data silos, inefficiencies, and reduced productivity. These integration challenges can result from a lack of technical expertise, inadequate resources, or incompatible systems. By implementing integrated systems, manufacturers can reduce data silos, improve efficiency, and gain real-time visibility into production operations.

High Costs of Custom ERP

High costs associated with implementing and maintaining custom ERP systems can be a significant burden for small and medium-sized manufacturers. These costs can include software licensing fees, implementation costs, and ongoing maintenance expenses. By exploring alternative solutions, such as custom software development or systems integration, manufacturers can reduce costs and improve efficiency.

“
We spent $800K customizing an off-the-shelf ERP over three years and it still did not match how our floor actually runs. FreedomDev built us a custom MES and ERP integration in six months for less than half that — and it worked from day one because they built it around our process, not the other way around.
VP of Operations—West Michigan Metal Products Manufacturer, 120 Employees

How We Help Manufacturing Companies

Custom Manufacturing Software

FreedomDev develops custom manufacturing software that automates production planning, tracks WIP, and provides real-time visibility into shop floor operations. Our team of experts works closely with clients to understand their challenges and develop software that drives efficiency, productivity, and profitability. With custom software, manufacturers can reduce errors, improve efficiency, and gain real-time visibility into production operations. (service_ref: custom-software-development)

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MES Implementation

FreedomDev helps manufacturers implement MES systems that integrate with existing ERP and SCADA systems, providing real-time visibility into production operations. Our team of experts ensures seamless integration and provides ongoing support to ensure maximum ROI. With MES, manufacturers can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and increase productivity. (service_ref: systems-integration)

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Shop Floor Data Collection

FreedomDev develops shop floor data collection systems that replace manual processes, reducing errors and improving efficiency. Our team of experts works closely with clients to understand their data collection needs and develop tailored solutions that drive productivity and profitability. With automated data collection, manufacturers can gain real-time visibility into production operations and make informed decisions. (service_ref: mobile-development)

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ERP Integration

FreedomDev integrates MES and other systems with ERP systems, including Epicor and SAP, to provide a seamless data flow and improve productivity. Our team of experts ensures accurate integration and provides ongoing support to ensure maximum ROI. With ERP integration, manufacturers can reduce data silos, improve efficiency, and gain real-time visibility into production operations. (service_ref: erp-development)

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Production Dashboards

FreedomDev develops real-time production dashboards that provide visibility into shop floor operations, enabling manufacturers to make informed decisions and optimize production. Our team of experts works closely with clients to understand their dashboard needs and develop tailored solutions that drive productivity and profitability. With production dashboards, manufacturers can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and increase productivity. (service_ref: business-intelligence)

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Legacy System Modernization

FreedomDev helps manufacturers modernize legacy systems, replacing outdated software with custom solutions that improve efficiency and productivity. Our team of experts works closely with clients to understand their modernization needs and develop tailored solutions that drive ROI. With legacy system modernization, manufacturers can reduce costs, improve efficiency, and gain real-time visibility into production operations. (service_ref: software-migrations)

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See How We've Helped Similar Businesses

Real results from real projects. Explore our case studies to see the kind of impact we deliver.

  • Detailed before-and-after breakdowns
  • Measurable ROI and business outcomes
  • Technologies and approaches we used

Need software built for Manufacturing?

Technologies We Use for Manufacturing

CsharpPythonJavascriptTypescriptJavaDotnetReactAngularVueNodejsDjangoFlaskSQL ServerPostgresqlMysql

Ready to Transform Your Manufacturing Operations?

Schedule a technical consultation with our senior architects.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between MES and ERP, and do I need both?
MES (Manufacturing Execution System) focuses on real-time monitoring and control of production operations, while ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) manages broader business functions, such as finance and inventory. Depending on your manufacturing needs, you may require both MES and ERP systems to achieve optimal efficiency and productivity.
How do I get real-time shop floor visibility without replacing everything?
FreedomDev can help you implement real-time monitoring systems that integrate with your existing infrastructure, providing visibility into shop floor operations without requiring a complete overhaul.
Is building custom ERP cheaper than SAP in the long run?
The cost of custom ERP development versus SAP depends on various factors, including implementation costs, ongoing maintenance, and customization requirements. FreedomDev's custom ERP solutions can provide a cost-effective alternative to SAP for small and medium-sized manufacturers.
How do I connect SCADA/PLC data to my ERP system?
FreedomDev's systems integration expertise enables seamless connectivity between SCADA/PLC systems and ERP systems, ensuring accurate data flow and improved productivity.
We still run on spreadsheets — where do we even start?
FreedomDev can help you assess your current spreadsheet-based processes and develop a roadmap for migrating to custom manufacturing software, reducing errors and improving efficiency.
How much does custom manufacturing software cost?
The cost of custom manufacturing software development varies depending on project scope, complexity, and technology requirements. FreedomDev provides personalized quotes and works closely with clients to ensure a strong ROI on their software investment.

Industry Resources

National Association of Manufacturers →

Services for Manufacturing

Custom Software DevelopmentSystems IntegrationSQL ConsultingQuickBooks IntegrationDatabase ServicesSoftware Migrations

Stop Working For Your Software

Make your software work for you. Let's build a sensible solution for Manufacturing.