Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1538100
52 SMT007 MAGAZINE I AUGUST 2025 This article offers a first look at findings from the 2024 EMS Soft- ware Survey, which explores how electron- ics manufac- turers select, implement, and assess core business soft- ware. The full report, slated for release later this sum- mer, will include detailed benchmarking data and perspec- tives on satisfaction, integration, and legacy sys- tem challenges. Aging Infrastructure, Rising Expectations In electronics manufacturing, digital tools often stick around long past their prime. Nearly 60% of 7% 6% 18% 16% 10% 10% 12% 30% 45% 56% 27% 42% 18% 38% 38% 23% 8% 38% 20% 32% 35% 26% 26% 18% 20% 27% 40% 16% ERP MES PLM QMS LM S Quoti ng CRM Satisfaction, by Software Type Dis satisfied (0-39) Neutral (40-59) Moderatel y Satis fied (60-79) Hi ghly Satisfied (80-100) S at i sfa ct i o n , by S of t wa re Ty p e F i g u re 2 : S at i sfa ct i o n l eve l s va r y w i d e l y a c ro s s s of t wa re c ate g o r i e s : Q u ot i n g s of t wa re s h ows t h e h i g h e st s h a re of h i g h l y s at i sf i e d u s e rs (4 0 % ) , fo l l owe d by E R P a n d Q M S . I n c o nt ra st , P L M a n d M ES syste m s s e e e l evate d n e u t ra l a n d d i s s at i sf i e d re s p o n s e s , s i g n a l i n g i m p l e m e nt at i o n h u rd l e s o r u n m et ex p e ct at i o n s . ▼ ERP and QMS systems have been in place for over a decade, anchoring operations while complicating efforts to modernize. MES tools show a similar age profile, but with lower adoption and less functionality—revealing a sector still wrestling with paper-based processes, disconnected systems, and limited visibility. As the industry sets its sights on AI, automation, and real-time traceability, the question isn't just which systems to adopt, but how to navigate the oppor- tunity cost of updating these well-entrenched leg- acy systems. While satisfaction varies widely, companies often face hurdles in achieving seamless opera- tions. Tools like MES and ERP systems are critical for managing complex workflows, but satisfaction scores highlight persistent gaps. Staying ahead will depend on more than the tools themselves. Success requires careful selection, smart implementation, and partners who understand the unique demands of electronics manufacturing. With the right strategies, companies can bridge the T hiago Guimaraes