ABB MES Development: Enhancing Global Manufacturing Efficiency

As a supplier in the industrial sector, we have been developing ABB’s Ability™ Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) since 2023. ABB, renowned for its innovation in automation and control, has developed a multitude of solutions that serve industries worldwide. Our collaboration has not only focused on developing and refining their MES product, but also taking part in project deliveries for ABB’s industrial customers, both remote and on-site at their sites around the world.

Challenge

ABB operates in a globally competitive environment, facing demands for improved production efficiency, reduced lead times, and better quality control. Their MES solution bridges the gap between high-level enterprise planning systems and practical shop floor operations. Given the intricate nature of their operations, this challenge requires seamless integration, real-time monitoring, and advanced data handling capabilities. The demand for ABB’s MES product has surged globally, necessitating the addition of more developers to join the team, engage in projects, and contribute to product development.

Solution

In cooperation with ABB, we have collaborated the design, implementation, testing, and support phases for the MES system. Utilizing technologies such as C#, C++, Pl/SQL, Oracle Databases, and Azure DevOps, we have contributed to the development of a robust software architecture that integrates with ABB’s extensive automation and control solutions. The system provides real-time visibility into production processes and facilitates efficient scheduling, resource allocation, and quality management.
Through proactive collaboration, we ensured seamless integration of new features with existing ABB solutions, quality data collected from shop floor operations, optimizing it through sophisticated analytics to uncover valuable insights for continuous process improvement.

Outcome

The developed MES solution marks an advancement in ABB’s product capabilities. It offers real-time production monitoring, enhanced quality management, and improved data collection and analysis, thereby supporting informed decision-making and boosting operational efficiency. This collaboration has successfully led to improved manufacturing outcomes on a global scale, proving ATR’s expertise in software development, data processing, and maintenance essential in navigating industrial complexities.
The MES development team is a global, multinational entity, where seamless collaboration with other suppliers, ABB’s product management, and industrial clients plays a pivotal role in ensuring success.

Looking Ahead

Our co-operation with ABB continues to ensure that their MES product evolves with technological advances and market demands. We remain committed to our shared vision of transforming manufacturing operations with intelligence and precision, fostering sustainable growth for ABB and its global industrial customers.

Background Info

C#, C++, Pl/SQL, Oracle Databases, Azure DevOps

ABB is a global technology leader in electrification and automation. They have around 110,000 employees worldwide and a history that stretches back more than 140 years.

“ATR has consistently delivered highly skilled and committed software developers, even on short notice. Their team has brought critical expertise and advanced project practices to ABB, significantly contributing to our success.

What sets ATR apart is their ability to grow from within – their self-developing team culture has made scaling up capacity seamless and efficient.”
Jouni JuvonenEngineering Manager, ABB