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MESA Collaborative Manufacturing Dictionary 2 Edition
MESA Collaborative Manufacturing Dictionary 2 Edition
MESA Collaborative Manufacturing Dictionary 2 Edition
Manufacturing
Dictionary
nd
2 Edition
MESA • 107 S. Southgate Drive • Chandler, AZ 85226 USA • 480-893-6110 • hq@mesa.org • www.mesa.org
Three Functional Dimensions Converge On Smart Manufacturing
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FORWARD ......................................................................................... 3
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................. 4
DICTIONARY ...................................................................................... 5
REFERENCES .................................................................................... 54
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS .................................................................. 54
REVIEWERS ...................................................................................... 55
ADDITIONAL CONTRIBUTORS ........................................................... 56
FORWARD
There are several goals for revising the MESA Collaborative Manufacturing Dictionary
(CMD) and updating this valuable resource:
1. Transform the CMD from a “dictionary” containing many MESA-created
definitions to an information hub with references to the “best” external
definitions for terms (e.g. found in Wikipedia)
2. Update the terms so they’re current, remove obsolete terms and add new terms
that have gained currency since the last major update.
This work was completed by me, David Noller, and volunteers from the MESA Technical
Committee, including Gary Mintchell, Karen Smiley, Ananth Seshan and Conrad Leiva.
Khris Khammer and Brandy Richardson also contributed to the many discussions we had
on how to approach this work.
My initial feeling, along with the other volunteers, was that this would be a tedious,
time-consuming effort (and it did not disappoint!). I was surprised to find, however, that
it was fascinating to research the terms to find the “best” reference to provide. During
the process, we learned a great deal about the manufacturing industry. We hope that
you find using this CMD as informative as we did our efforts updating it.
INTRODUCTION
The Collaborative Manufacturing Dictionary is a resource for manufacturing
professionals to understand the myriad of acronyms and terms used by consultants,
system integrators, software providers and other professionals. By defining the standard
terms used to describe information systems and manufacturing operations, we create a
lexicon that everyone understands.
This dictionary is the culmination of what has become a multi-year, multi-person effort
to create a comprehensive resource for acronyms, terms and definitions related to
manufacturing. It originated as part of a 2004 MESA working group tasked with creating
a Manufacturing Operations Dictionary. For several years, it fell under the auspices of
the MESA Technical Committee whose new members would review materials from the
MESA resource library and select frequently used terms to include in this dictionary,
providing a way for new members to become familiar with MESA content and to
contribute to the organization.
A renewed effort began in 2008 to complete the dictionary. Over the last couple of
years, the dictionary has grown from approximately 600 terms and acronyms to more
than 1000. And, we are not yet finished. As manufacturing continues to evolve and
change, so will this dictionary.
DICTIONARY
The primary goal of Part 820 is to ensure that manufacturers implement an overall
21 CFR Part 820 quality program through a controlled manufacturing environment in which devices are
Quality Systems manufactured in accordance with the Device Master Record. Full traceability,
Regulation continuous process improvement and issue resolution are also major components of
this regulation.
As part of the PLM process, 3D visualization and simulation capabilities – often called
3D Visualization Digital Manufacturing – help manufacturers visualize and simulate a product and its
and Simulation production processes behavior in 3D to check its manufacturability before locking in
capital expenditures.
A workplace organization methodology that uses five Japanese words: seiri, seiton,
seiso, seiketsu and shitsuke. There are five primary phases of 5S: sorting, straightening,
5S
systematic cleaning, standardizing and sustaining. Additionally, there are three other
phases sometimes included: safety, security and satisfaction.
Flexibly develops, produces and delivers demand-driven products, while optimally
Adaptive
leveraging existing resources. However, in order for adaptive manufacturing to happen,
Manufacturing
manufacturers must seamlessly transfer knowledge for defining, scheduling and
(O)
producing products between their enterprise systems and shop-floor systems.
3D printers. Promises more efficient manufacturing processes for highly customized
Additive products as well as support to manufacturers making products with particularly complex
Manufacturing geometries or multiple materials in one single production step. For more, see
(O) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/3D_printing.
Advanced
Advanced Manufacturing Research (AMR) is now part of Gartner. For more, see
Manufacturing
http://www.gartner.com/technology/supply-chain/amr-research.jsp.
Research (AMR)
A manufacturing management process, which allocates raw materials and production ca-
pacity, given constraints, optimally to meet demand. APS is especially well suited to envi-
ronments where simpler planning methods cannot adequately address complex trade-offs
Advanced
between competing priorities. For more, see
Planning and
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Advanced_planning_and_scheduling.
Scheduling (APS)
If you have access, ISA-95, part 3 (Annex) also has a good definition of APS (see
https://www.isa.org/isa95/)
A new class of robots with enhanced senses, dexterity and intelligence. These robots
Advanced can perform tasks without pre-programming as they can learn from experience. Sensors
Robotics make them aware of the environment and safer for the people around them.
(ALM)
ANSI is a clearinghouse on U.S. electronic data interchange and software language
standards. The institute oversees the creation, promulgation and use of thousands of
American norms and guidelines that have a direct impact on businesses in nearly every sector:
National from acoustical devices to construction equipment, from dairy and livestock production
Standards to energy distribution, and many more. ANSI is also actively engaged in accrediting
Institute (ANSI) programs that assess conformance to standards – including globally-recognized cross-
sector programs such as the ISO 9000 (quality) and ISO 14000 (environmental)
management systems. For more, see http://www.ansi.org/.
American
The Association for Operations Management is a not-for-profit international education
Production and
organization, offering certification programs, training tools and networking
Inventory Control
opportunities to increase workplace performance. For more, see http://www.apics.org/.
Society (APICS)
American
An organization that provides products and services to help organizations discover and
Productivity and
implement best practices and obtain measurable results. For more, see
Quality Center
https://www.apqc.org/.
(APQC)
ANSI See American National Standards Institute. For more, see http://www.ansi.org/.
An international standard that provides guidelines for the design and specifications of
ANSI/ISA-88
batch control systems. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISA-88.
An international standard for the integration of enterprise, operations and control
systems. The standard provides object models for the exchange of information between
these systems. It can be used to determine what information has to be exchanged
ANSI/ISA-95
between finance and logistics systems, along with production, maintenance, inventory
and quality systems. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ANSI/ISA-95. See also
Manufacturing Operations Management.
Advanced A broad range of techniques and technologies implemented within industrial process
Process Control control systems. For more, see
(APC) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Advanced_process_control.
A computer program designed for a specific purpose such as ERP, MES, Inventory etc.
The trend in manufacturing solutions today, as is described in concepts such as
Application Manufacturing 2.0 and Smarter Manufacturing, is towards composite applications that
knit together the capabilities of ERP, MES, etc. in combination with data and events
from production systems to form new solutions.
An interface implemented by a software program to enable interaction with other
software, similar to the way a user interface facilitates interaction between humans and
computers. Applications, libraries and operating systems implement APIs to determine
Application the vocabulary and calling conventions programmers should employ to use their
Programming services. It may include specifications for routines, data structures, object classes and
Interface (API) protocols used to communicate between the consumer and implementer of the API.
APIs are important for manufacturing systems integration since they are the interfaces
used for “request/response” integration of the application (the terminology is a bit
dated; however, today these would likely be services implementations, not APIs). For
ARC Advisory A technology research and advisory firm for industry, infrastructure and cities. For
Group more, see http://www.arcweb.com/.
ISA-95 terminology. A logical subgrouping of the enterprise, site and area hierarchy,
where enterprise is the top most level and area is the bottom most level. An area may
contain one or more ISA-95 work centers, process cells, production lines or production
Area units. An area instance can also recursively include other area instances. Level 4
functions generally deal with the enterprise and site levels. However, enterprise
planning and scheduling may involve areas. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ANSI/ISA-95.
A business production strategy where products ordered by customers are produced
quickly and are to a certain extent customizable. The strategy requires that basic parts
Assemble-to-
for the product are already manufactured but not assembled. Once the order is
Order (ATO)
received, the parts are assembled quickly and sent to the customer. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Assemble-to-order_system.
A manufacturing process mode. For more, see
Assembly
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Assembly_line.
Adding a virtual layer of contextual information at the right time and in the right place
(e.g., through devices such as Google Glass), augmented reality is expected to help plant
Augmented floor workers perform a variety of non-repetitive tasks faster, such as assembly, picking,
Reality maintenance and many others. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Augmented_reality.
Automatic identification – for example, bar codes – is usually a series of alternating bars
and spaces printed on labels and placed on items to identify them. Coupled with an
Auto ID automated scanner, this technology can speed the input of data into a computer
system. Today, auto ID also includes newer technologies such as RFID and QR codes. For
more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Automatic_identification_and_data_capture.
A not-for-profit association based in Southfield, Michigan originally created to develop
recommendations and a framework for the improvement of quality in the North
American Automotive Industry. A group of visionaries from the three largest North
American automotive manufacturers — Ford, General Motors and Chrysler — founded
Automotive the organization in 1982. Membership has grown to include transplant Japanese
Industry Action companies such as Toyota, Honda and Nissan, heavy truck and earth moving
Group (AIAG) manufacturers such as Caterpillar Inc. and Navistar International and many of their part
suppliers and service providers. Member companies donate the individual’s time to
work at AIAG in a non-competitive, open forum intended to develop recommendations
and best practices for the overall good of the industry.
For more, see http://www.aiag.org/.
A response to a customer order inquiry based on actual resource availability. The
Available to
response generates available quantities of the requested product and delivery due
A method for obtaining a production schedule by working backwards from the required
Back Scheduling due date to predict the latest start date consistent with meeting that due date. For
more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scheduling_(production_processes).
A business performance measurement and management system developed by Robert S.
Kaplan and David P. Norton that analyzes organizational success by reviewing the
Balanced combination of financial, customer, internal business process, and employee learning
Scorecard and growth perspectives. A balanced system includes both leading and lagging
measures, and aligns individual and department goals with overall corporate strategic
objectives. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balanced_scorecard.
Key basic performance measurements of the production facility. For more, see
Baseline Metrics
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Performance_metric.
Batch A process mode. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Batch_processing.
Batch A manufacturing function that allows partial quantities of a material handled in batches
Management to be managed separately in stock.
Batch Markup
An XML implementation of ISA-88. For more, see
Language
http://www.mesa.org/en/BatchML.asp.
(BatchML) (O)
The product manufactured as a unit (such as cookie dough, salad dressing etc.). For
Batch Process
more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Batch_production.
The record kept for a batch or run of a process, which includes raw material
consumption, product production, details of processing, human resources involved,
Batch Record maintenance, accidents and disposal. For more, see
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?CFRPart=111
&showFR=1&subpartNode=21:2.0.1.1.11.9.
BCS Batch Control System. For more, see https://www.isa.org/isa88/
The most efficient (least amount of effort) and effective (best results) way of
accomplishing a task, based on repeatable procedures that have proven themselves
Best Practices
over time for large numbers of people. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Best_practice.
The collection of volumes of data, which exceeds the capabilities of traditional database
management systems and desktop statistical and visualization tools.
Big Data Big data is an important concept in manufacturing systems as it describes the
technology associated with the large volume of data and reference, historical and
derived, that once collected and validated, can be used for dashboards and
asset/product/process analytics.
Big data analytics will be critical in manufacturing to support operational efficiency,
visibility and control over supply chains, physical assets and plant workers. Harnessing
the power of big data analytics will allow manufacturers to not only analyze trends but
also to predict events such as future buying cycles, equipment lifespan and capacity
fluctuation. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Big_data.
A list of the raw materials, sub-assemblies, intermediate assemblies, sub-components,
components, parts and the quantities of each needed to manufacture an end item (final
product.)
A BOM can define products as they are designed (engineering bill of materials) as they
are ordered (sales bill of materials), as they are built (manufacturing bill of materials) or
as they are maintained (service bill of materials). The different types of BOMs depend
Bill of Materials on the intended business need and use. In process industries, the BOM is also known as
(BOM) the formula, recipe or ingredients list. In electronics, the BOM represents the list of
components used on the printed wiring board or printed circuit board. Once the design
of the circuit is completed, the BOM list passes on to the PCB layout engineer as well as
component engineer who will procure the components required for the design.
BOMs are hierarchical in nature with the top level representing the finished product,
which may be a sub-assembly or a completed item. BOMs that describe the sub-
assemblies are referred to as modular BOMs.
For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bill_of_materials.
A list of resources, such as labor, needed to complete a saleable product. BOR is used in
Bill of Resources capacity planning to prioritize and schedule work in manufacturing resource planning
(BOR) (MRP II) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) by highlighting critical resources. For
more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bill_of_resources.
Bill of equipment. For more, see
BOE
http://www.reliableplant.com/Read/10689/equipment-bom.
BOL Bill of lading. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bill_of_lading.
Batch Process Control System. For more, see
BPCS
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Process_control.
Business process reengineering. For more, see
BPR
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Business_process_reengineering.
BTO Build to order. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Build_to_order.
Elements the organization must do well for its strategy to succeed (also called critical
Business drivers
success factors).
Business Category of applications and technologies for gathering, storing, analyzing and providing
Intelligence (BI) access to data. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Business_intelligence.
The common XML message structure provided by OAGIS, which provides a message
Business Object architecture based on the following reusable components:
Documents Nouns describe a common business object and composed of components, which are
(BOD) basic building blocks shared across all nouns.
Verbs describe the action applied to the noun. For more, see http://oagi.org/.
A set of management and analytic processes, supported by technology, that helps
businesses define strategic goals and then measure and manage performance against
those goals. Core BPM processes include financial and operational planning,
consolidation and reporting, business modeling, analysis and monitoring of key
performance indicators linked to strategy.
BPM involves consolidation of data from various sources, querying and analysis of the
Business data, and then putting the results into practice.
Performance
BPM enhances processes by creating better feedback loops. Continuous and real-time
Management
reviews can help to identify and eliminate problems before they grow.
(BPM)
BPM provides key performance indicators (KPIs) that help companies monitor efficiency
of projects and employees against operational targets.
For manufacturing processes, MESA has defined a set of metrics that can be used to
measure performance, originally referred to as “MESA Metrics that Matter.” For more,
see https://services.mesa.org/resourcelibrary/ShowResource/9da9ab66-a420-48ed-
afdb-027fe1e105a3.
Business Process
See Operational Intelligence (OI).
Intelligence (BPI)
An analysis and schematic drawing of a company’s business processes, BPM is typically
performed by business analysts and managers who are seeking to improve process
efficiency and quality. The process improvements identified by BPM may or may not
Business Process require information technology involvement, although that is a common driver for the
Modeling (BPM) need to model a business process, by creating a process master.
In manufacturing systems, BPM can be used to model and the manufacturing process
itself, thus supporting both analysis and control of the process. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Business_process_management.
Business Process A standard for Business Process Modeling, which can represent business processes
Modeling applicable to manufacturing. The standard also represents business processes within
Notation (BPMN) industry standards.
Element of a SOA architecture. The business process layer consists of business processes
created by combining the services in the business services layer together to create
composite applications.
Business Process
Composite applications are a new way to do application development within the SOA.
Templates (SOA
Layer) Composite applications are important in manufacturing systems and from a
“Manufacturing 2.0” perspective since they can be created to implement use cases that
use capabilities in both plant floor and enterprise applications. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Composite_application.
Capacity Planning Also called Capacity Requirements Planning, the process of determining production
requirements for an organization given some measure of demand (e.g. production
Manufacturing set of services more easily shared and monetized. For more, see
(W) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cloud_manufacturing.
Materials and components with smart tags like RFID, that can broadcast identification
Cognizant information, including part number, revision number, serial number, vendor and
Components (O) configuration information used by smart machines to automatically trigger load proper
programs and set up parameters.
Collaborative (or,
A term recognized worldwide for the government controls and management of
currently) Good
manufacturing and quality control testing of foods and pharmaceutical products. For
Manufacturing
more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Good_manufacturing_practice.
Practices (cGMP)
A strategy in which designated individuals and organizations, both internal to a
manufacturing enterprise and extended to its suppliers, customers and partners, work
together for mutual gain to streamline end-to-end business and supply chain processes
Collaborative
and provide a more comprehensive and accurate information base from which to make
Manufacturing
decisions. MESA premium members can obtain a “Collaborative Manufacturing
(O)
Explained” whitepaper here:
https://services.mesa.org/resourcelibrary/showresource/9fc12f9d-c082-4f6a-a1dd-
65304a7e34bc.
Highly specialized graphical software used to create 2D and 3D engineering
Computer-aided
specifications, blueprints etc., sometimes including parts lists and other relevant data.
Design (CAD)
For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer-aided_design.
Information technology applied to elements of the design and engineering process.
Computer-aided Includes all types of performance systems; for example, heat transfer, structural,
Engineering (CAE) electromagnetic, aeronautics and acoustic analysis. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer-aided_engineering.
Computer-aided Highly specialized software used to automate manufacturing processes. CAD/CAM
Manufacturing systems integrate and automate the design through manufacturing phases of a product.
(CAM) For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer-aided_manufacturing.
Computer-aided Software systems created to assist in the design and improvement of manufacturing
Process equipment and production processes that pertain to a particular product or product
Engineering line. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer-
(CAPE) aided_production_engineering.
A link between design and manufacturing in a computer-integrated manufacturing
(CIM) environment. Commonly used by manufacturing engineers, CAPP develops a
Computer-aided
product manufacturing plan based on projected variables such as cost, lead times,
Process Planning
equipment availability, production volumes, potential material substitution routings and
(CAPP)
testing requirements. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer-
aided_process_planning.
Computer-
integrated Using computers to control the production process. For more, see
Manufacturing https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer-integrated_manufacturing.
(CIM)
CNC machines are computer-based tool controllers that can read programs with
Computerized instructions for driving machine tools. These systems mill, cut or polish raw materials
Numeric into a specified part while minimizing steps requiring human action. For more, see
Controllers (CNC) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Numerical_control.
A broadly recognized and widely implemented strategy a company uses to manage and
nurture its interactions with clients and sales prospects. CRM uses technology to
Customer organize, automate and synchronize business processes, principally sales activities but
Relationship also those for marketing, customer service and technical support. The overall goals are
Management to find, attract and win new clients, nurture and retain those the company already has,
(CRM) entice former clients back into the fold, and reduce the costs of marketing and client
service. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Customer_relationship_management.
Digital representations of physical systems used to communicate status information and
properties of the physical system to other cyber physical systems and other applications
Cyber Physical in the Smart Factory. They also may have a control aspect and play a role in directing
Systems (CPS) the actions of the physical system (e.g. an AGV might have its own logic for picking up
and delivering materials). For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyber-
physical_system.
1. The time it takes to produce successive units on a production line.
2. The total time, from the beginning to the end of a process, as defined by a compa-
ny and its customer. Cycle time includes process time during which a unit is
Cycle Time brought closer to an output, and delay time during which a unit of work is spent
waiting to take the next action.
For more, see https://www.isixsigma.com/dictionary/cycle-time/.
Specialized database system capable of capturing and storing manufacturing process
Data Historian
time series data at high speeds. Also known as an “operational historian” or simply
(W)
“historian.” For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operational_historian.
Drum-Buffer Rope. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theory_of_constraints#Operations and
DBR
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theory_of_constraints#Claimed_suboptimality_of_drum-
buffer-rope.
DCOR Design Chain Operations Reference model.
Demand-driven Supply Network, which is a Gartner Group explanation for globally
DDSN distributed supply chains. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Demand-driven_supply_network.
Demand-Driven A strategy for matching production to demand.
Manufacturing
Business approach aimed at providing customers with exactly what they want, when
Demand-driven
they want it and where they want it. For more, see
Strategy
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Demand_chain_management.
Demand Controlling production processes to meet customer demand. For more, see
Management https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Demand_management.
Term originates from 21CFR820.
Device History 1. Device history records are reports that contain the entire production and service
Record (DHR) history of a specific product or device.
2. DHR must include the acceptance records, which demonstrate that the device was
manufactured in accordance with the device master record (the actual product and
process design record).
For more, see
http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?fr=820.184.
The application of digital technologies to the manufacturing value chain to digitally
Digital thread systems and processes from design to sourcing, production and sustainment of
Manufacturing the product for higher levels of visibility, efficiency, quality and customer service.
Also known as distributed numerical control, DNC is a common manufacturing term for
networking CNC machine tools. On some CNC machine controllers, the available memory
is too small to contain the machining program (for example, machining complex
Direct Numerical
surfaces), so in this case the program is stored in a separate computer and sent directly
Control (DNC)
to the machine, one block at a time. If the computer is connected to a number of
machines, it can distribute programs to different machines as required. For more, see
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Direct_numerical_control.
A digital model of a particular asset, including design specifications and engineering
models, that describe its geometry, materials, components and behavior. More
importantly, it also includes the as-built and operational data unique to the specific
physical asset, which it represents. For example, for an aircraft, the digital twin would be
identified to the physical product unit identifier, which is referred to as the tail number.
Digital Twin The data in the digital twin of an aircraft includes things like tail number specific
geometry extracted from aircraft 3D models, aerodynamic models, engineering changes
cut in during the production cycle, material properties, inspection, operation and
maintenance data, aerodynamic models and any deviations from the original design
specifications approved due to issues and workarounds on the specific product unit. For
more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_twin.
A manufacturing environment often characterized by individual, separate unit
Discrete production, low unit volume, high product complexity, variable lead times and
Manufacturing production to order versus to stock. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Discrete_manufacturing.
Discrete Process A manufacturing process in which the individual products manufactured is easily
(W) identified (for example, a cell phone, battery, medical device).
A production prioritization schedule for a given work center that lists orders in the exact
Dispatch List sequence they should be produced based on due date, critical ratio or other
considerations. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dispatch_%28logistics%29.
A logical process employed to assign priorities to jobs at a work center, production line
Dispatch
etc. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dispatch_%28logistics%29.
The command to send materials or orders to certain parts of the plant to begin a process
or step, and manage flow of production units in the form of jobs, orders, batches, lots
and work orders. Dispatch information is presented in the sequence in which the work
Dispatch
needs to be done, and changes in real-time as events occur on the factory floor. This
Production Units
command has the ability to alter a prescribed schedule on the factory floor. Rework and
salvage processes are available, as well as the ability to control the amount of work in
process at any point with buffer management.
A control system, process or any kind of dynamic system, in which the controller
elements are not central in location (like the brain) but instead are distributed
throughout the system with each component sub-system controlled by one or more
Distributed controllers. Networks connect the entire system of controllers for communication and
Control System monitoring. DCS is a broad term used in a variety of industries to monitor and control
(DCS) (W) distributed equipment. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Distributed_control_system.
Time when a machine is not used because the equipment needs repair. For more, see
Downtime
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Downtime.
DRP See Distribution Resource Planning.
Decision Support System. For more, see
DSS
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decision_support_system.
Dynamic Finite Furnishes operators with a continuously updated shop floor schedule and real-time
Scheduling dispatching of when and where events should occur. See Finite Capacity Scheduling.
Electrical/ Electronic/Programmable Electronic Safety-related Systems. For more, see
E/E/PES
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IEC_61508.
See Enterprise Application Integration and
EAI
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enterprise_application_integration.
See Enterprise Asset Management and
EAM
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enterprise_asset_management.
Electronic Business using eXtensible Markup Language. For more, see
ebXML
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EbXML.
ECO See Engineering Change Order.
A lot size model that attempts to balance the costs associated with placing individual
orders with the costs of carrying inventory. Defined as the square root of two multiplied
Economic Order
by annual demand multiplied by ordering cost divided by inventory carrying cost (as a
Quantity (EOQ)
%) multiplied by unit cost. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EOQ and
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Economic_order_quantity.
E-CRM Electronic-CRM (Customer Relation Management).
See Electronic Design Automation. For more, see
EDA
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronic_design_automation.
Electronic Device Description Language. For more, see
EDDL
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Device_Description_Language.
Electronic Data Interchange. For more, see
EDI
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronic_data_interchange.
Enterprise Document Management System or Electronic Document Management
EDMS
System. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Edms&redirect=no.
Enterprise Data Warehouse. For more, see
EDW
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Data_warehouse.
Environmental Health and Safety. For more, see
EH&S
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Environment,_health_and_safety.
A way of compiling production data into a common document, unique for each batch
produced. The document is completed with data entered manually by the user, and
Electronic Batch
data automatically entered by retrieval from predefined data sources. For more, see
Record (EBR)
http://www.automationworld.com/batch-manufacturing/electronic-batch-records-
story-workflow-improvement.
The transfer of structured data, by agreed upon message standards, from one computer
Electronic Data
system to another without human intervention. For more, see
Exchange (EDI)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronic_data_interchange.
A category of software tools for designing electronic systems such as printed circuit
Electronic Design
boards and integrated circuits. The tools work together in a design flow that chip
Automation
designers use to design and analyze entire semiconductor chips. For more, see
(EDA)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronic_design_automation.
An electronic means to deliver documentation that describes specific activities and tasks
Electronic Work
within the manufacturing process, and for replacing and removing paper-based forms
Instructions
from the manufacturing process.
(EWI)
The end user is the person actually using a software application or system. For more,
End User see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/End_user.
An agency of the United States Department of Health and Human Services responsible
for regulating and supervising the safety of foods, dietary supplements, drugs, vaccines,
Food and Drug
biological medical products, blood products, medical devices, radiation-emitting devices,
Administration
veterinary products and cosmetics produced or sold in the United States. The FDA also
(FDA)
enforces section 361 of the Public Health Service Act and the associated regulations. For
more, see http://www.fda.gov.
A structured, modular breakdown of every function that must be addressed to perform a
Functional
generic mission. Also used for any subset of the mission. Unlike a Work Breakdown
Breakdown
Structure (WBS), the FBS is a function-oriented tree, not a product-oriented tree. For
Structure (FBS)
more, see http://ntrs.nasa.gov/archive/nasa/casi.ntrs.nasa.gov/20130012526.pdf.
This model provides an understanding of the departments and systems responsible for
Functional Model each function and tasks within a function. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Function_model.
Gage Repeatability and Reproducibility is the amount of measurement variation
introduced by a measurement system, which consists of the measuring instrument itself
and the individuals using the instrument. A Gage R&R study is a critical step in
manufacturing Six Sigma projects, and it quantifies three things:
Gage R&R Repeatability – variation from the measurement instrument
Reproducibility – variation from the individuals using the instrument
Overall Gage R&R – the combined effect of the above
For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gage_R%26R.
Good automation manufacturing practices in the pharmaceutical industry. For more, see
GAMP
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Good_Automated_Manufacturing_Practice.
MESA Global Education Program. For more, see
GEP
http://www.mesa.org/en/globaleducationprogram/educationprogram.asp.
Good A term recognized worldwide for the control and management of manufacturing and
Manufacturing quality control of foods, pharmaceutical products and medical devices. GMPs are
Practices (GMP) guidelines that outline the aspects of production that would affect the quality of a
(W) product. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Good_manufacturing_practice.
1. GxP is a general term for good practice quality guidelines and regulations. These
guidelines are used in many fields, including the pharmaceutical and food indus-
tries.
2. The titles of these good practice guidelines usually begin with "good" and end in
"practice," with the specific practice descriptor in between. GxP represents the ab-
breviations of these titles, where x (a common symbol for a variable) represents the
GxP specific descriptor.
3. A "c" or "C" is added sometimes to the front of the acronym. The preceding "c"
stands for "current." For example, cGMP is an acronym for "current good manufac-
turing practices." cGMP is the most well known example of a GxP. The term GxP is
used only in a casual manner to refer generally to a collection of quality guidelines.
For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GxP.
Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points. For more, see
HACCP
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hazard_analysis_and_critical_control_points.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Occupational_safety_and_health.
Instruction List - one of the five languages supported by the IEC 61131-3 standard. For
IL
more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Instruction_list.
Inventory Management Software. For more, see
IMS
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inventory_management_software.
The Internet of Things (IoT) empowers any device – from smartphones to smart shelves,
Industrial
to sensor-embedded automation controls – to be active participants in an event-driven,
Internet of Things
self-healing system. For more, see
(IIoT) (W)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_of_things#Manufacturing.
Aka Industrie 4.0, originated in Germany as an initiative aimed and improving the efficien-
cy and competitiveness of German manufacturing, but it has since been adopted around
the world to represent current trends for automation and data exchange in manufacturing.
For more on this topic see https://www.acatech.de/wp-
Industry 4.0
content/uploads/2018/03/Final_report__Industrie_4.0_accessible.pdf , as well as “Smart
Manufacturing”, defined as well in this document. For another reference, see
https://ec.europa.eu/futurium/en/system/files/ged/a2-schweichhart-
reference_architectural_model_industrie_4.0_rami_4.0.pdf .
Capacity planning systems that leave orders on the existing dates, and merely show
Infinite Capacity whether the load on a resource is over or under its defined capacity, without
Planning (W) recommending changes. See also Finite Capacity Planning and
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capacity_planning.
International A nonprofit organization that provides telecommunication, education and research
Engineering services. IEC offers online educational programs, online seminars and tutorials. Founded
Consortium (IEC) in 1944, the association is based in Chicago, Illinois. For more, see http://iec.org/.
A nonprofit technical society for engineers, technicians, businesspeople, educators and
students, who work, study or have interest in industrial automation and related
pursuits, such as instrumentation.
Founded in 1945, ISA is a leading global, nonprofit organization setting the standard for
International automation by helping over 30,000 worldwide members and other professionals solve
Society of difficult technical problems, while enhancing leadership and personal career
Automation (ISA) capabilities. Based in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, ISA develops standards;
certifies industry professionals; provides education and training; publishes books and
technical articles and hosts conferences and exhibitions for automation professionals.
ISA is the founding sponsor of the Automation Federation.
For more, see https://www.isa.org .
TBG is part of the United Nations Centre for Trade Facilitation and Electronic Business
International (UN/CEFACT). TBG is responsible for business and governmental business requirements
Trade and and content by initiating developments in the areas of process analysis, best practices
Business and international trade procedures. Where appropriate, the UN/CEFACT Modeling
Processes Group Methodology is used to support the development of trade facilitation and electronic
(TBG) business solutions. For more, see http://www.uncefactforum.org/TBG/TBG
Home/tbg_home.htm.
Internet of Things The Internet of Things (IoT) empowers any device – from smartphones to smart shelves,
ISO standard for data integration, sharing, exchange and hand-over between computer
ISO 15926
systems. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISO_15926.
ISO Quality Management Standards. A family of standards for quality management
ISO 9000
systems. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISO_9000.
ISPE International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Society_for_Pharmaceutical_Engineering or
http://www.ispe.org/home.
An inventory strategy that strives to improve a business' return on investment by
reducing in-process inventory and associated carrying costs. The JIT inventory system
Just-In-Time (JIT)
focuses on having the right material, at the right time, at the right place, and in the exact
(W)
amount, without the safety net of inventory. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Just-in-time_manufacturing.
The Japanese term for improvement; continuous improvement, involving everyone -
managers and workers. In manufacturing, Kaizen relates to finding and eliminating waste
Kaizen
in machinery, labor and production methods. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaizen.
A concept related to Lean and Just In Time (JIT) production. Kanban is a signaling system
to trigger action. It historically uses cards to signal the need for an item. However, other
Kanban devices such as plastic markers (Kanban squares) or balls (often golf balls) or an empty
part-transport trolley or floor location can also trigger the movement, production or
supply of a unit in a factory. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kanban.
A performance indicator or key performance indicator, KPI is a measure of performance.
Such measures are common to help an organization define and evaluate how successful
it is, typically in terms of making progress towards its long-term organizational goals. KPIs
may be monitored using Business Intelligence techniques to assess the present state of
Key Performance the business and to assist in prescribing a course of action. The act of monitoring KPIs in
Indicator (KPI) real-time is known as business activity monitoring (BAM). KPIs frequently "value"
(W) difficult-to-measure activities such as the benefits of leadership development,
engagement, service and satisfaction. KPIs typically are tied to an organization's strategy.
For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Performance_indicator.
KPIs can be documented in MESA KPI-ML, an implementation of the ISO 22400 standard.
For more, see http://www.mesa.org/en/KPIML.asp.
A microhardness test for mechanical hardness used particularly for brittle materials or
Knoop thin sheets, where only a small indentation may be made for testing purposes. For more,
see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Knoop_hardness_test .
Tracking and directing the use of operations personnel during a shift based on
qualifications, work patterns and business needs. Provides status of personnel in an up-
to-the-minute time frame. Includes time and attendance reporting, certification tracking,
Labor
as well as the ability to track indirect activities such as material preparation or tool room
Management
work as a basis for activity-based costing. May interact with resource allocation to
determine optimal assignments. For more, see http://www.gartner.com/it-glossary/lms-
labor-management-system/.
Laboratory A software system used in laboratories for the management of samples, laboratory
Information users, instruments, standards and other laboratory functions such as invoicing, plate
Management management and workflow automation. For more, see
System (LIMS) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laboratory_information_management_system.
LCC Life-cycle Cost. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Life-cycle_cost_analysis.
Ladder Diagram A representation of a program in ladder logic. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ladder_logic.
The amount of time between the recognition of a required task, operation or process,
and its completion. Elements of lead time can include order entry, material
accumulation, machine setup, queue, processing, move and other activities, which can
Lead time
be classified by systems that seek to eliminate waste as valued-added (processing that
actively adds value as perceived by the customer) and non-value-added. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lead_time.
Lean manufacturing or Lean production, which is often known simply as "LEAN," is a
production practice that considers the expenditure of resources for any goal other than
the creation of value for the end customer as wasteful, and therefore a target for
elimination. Working from the perspective of the customer who consumes a product or
service, "value" is defined as any action or process for which a customer would be willing
to pay. Basically, LEAN centers on creating more value with less work. Lean
manufacturing is a generic process management philosophy derived mostly from the
Toyota Production System (TPS), hence the term “Toyotism” is also prevalent and
identified as LEAN only in the 1990s. LEAN is renowned for its focus on reduction of the
original Toyota seven wastes (“muda”) in order to improve overall customer value, but
there are varying perspectives on how this is best achieved. The steady growth of Toyota,
LEAN or Lean from a small company to the world's largest automaker, has focused attention on how
Manufacturing this was achieved.
(W) The original seven muda are:
1. Transportation (moving products that are not actually required to perform the pro-
cessing)
2. Inventory (all components, work-in-progress and finished product not being pro-
cessed)
3. Motion (people or equipment moving or walking more than is required to perform
the processing)
4. Waiting (waiting for the next production step)
5. Overproduction (production ahead of demand)
6. Over Processing (due to poor tool or product design creating activity)
7. Defects (the effort involved in inspecting for and fixing defects.)
For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lean_manufacturing.
In ISA-95, defines the activities involved in sensing the production process, often at
subsecond or shorter timeframes, and manipulating the production process. For more,
Level 1 see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enterprise_control#ISA95_.E2.80.9Clevels.E2.80.9D_for_e
nterprise_integration.
In ISA-95, defines the activities of monitoring, supervisory control and automated control
of the production process. Deals with time frames in the order of hours, minutes,
Level 2 seconds and subseconds. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enterprise_control#ISA95_.E2.80.9Clevels.E2.80.9D_for_e
nterprise_integration.
In ISA-95, defines the activities of workflow, stepping the process through states to
Level 3 produce the desired end products. Maintains records and optimizes the production
process. Level 3 deals with time frames of days, shifts, hours, minutes and seconds. For
more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enterprise_control#ISA95_.E2.80.9Clevels.E2.80.9Dfor_ent
erprise_integration.
In ISA-95, defines the activities of establishing the basic plant schedule - production,
material use, delivery and shipping. Determines inventory levels and makes sure that
materials are delivered on time to the right place for production. Level 4 deals with time
Level 4
frames of months, weeks, days and shifts. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enterprise_control#ISA95_.E2.80.9Clevels.E2.80.9Dfor_ent
erprise_integration.
LIFO Last In First Out. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FIFO_and_LIFO_accounting.
Levels of Information Systems Interoperability (LISI) Reference Model presents a logical
structure and a discipline or “maturity model” for improving interoperability
LISI Model
incrementally between information systems. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LISI_Interoperability_Model.
Logistics Managing and controlling the flow of products from the source of production to the
Management marketplace. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Logistics.
A not-for-profit trade association dedicated to developing and encouraging the adoption
Machine
of open information standards for operations and maintenance in manufacturing, fleet
Information
and facility environments. MIMOSA's open standards enable collaborative asset lifecycle
Management
management in both commercial and military applications. MIMOSA publishes XML-
Open Systems
based specifications for Enterprise Application Integration (EAI) and Condition-based
Alliance
Maintenance (CBM), including detailed models for assets and equipment. For more, see
(MIMOSA)
http://www.mimosa.org/mimosa/.
Planning and executing appropriate activities to keep equipment and other capital assets
in the plant performing to goal. Tracks and directs the activities to maintain the
equipment and tools to ensure their availability for manufacturing and ensure scheduling
Maintenance
for periodic or preventive maintenance as well as the response (alarms) to immediate
Management
problems. Maintenance management maintains a history of past events or problems to
aid in diagnosing problems. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maintenance,_repair,_and_operations .
Maintenance The collection of activities that coordinate, direct and track functions that maintain the
Operations equipment, tools and related assets to ensure their availability for manufacturing and
Management ensure scheduling for reactive, periodic, preventive or proactive maintenance. For more,
(MnOM) (W) see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operations_management.
The Maintenance Operations Activity model provides insight into maintenance activities
Maintenance
of a specific maintenance department or across departments, and how automation
Operations
systems or manual ad hoc data exchanges (paper tools) support them. For each activity,
Management
data exchange and system users/owners are described. Also, for each activity it is stated
Activity Model
which department(s) or persons are responsible. Inefficiency issues and optimization
(W)
possibilities are analyzed.
A manufacturing or assembly process whose goal is to keep manufacturing activities
Make to Demand
synchronized with demand as it shifts. At the same time, it lowers operating costs to give
(MTD) (W)
companies a competitive advantage.
A manufacturing method in which commonly used raw materials and components may
Make to Order
be stocked based on previous demand history, but further processing into higher-level
(MTO) (W)
items is not done until receipt of a customer order.
A manufacturing method in which finished goods are produced and stocked prior to
Make to Stock receipt of a customer order. MTS uses a forecast based on past demand history to
(MTS) (W) initiate production of end items when inventory has fallen below desired levels, instead
of waiting until a final quantity and configuration is described on a customer order.
Management A computer system designed to help managers plan and direct business and
Information organizational operations. For more, see
System (MIS) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Management_information_system.
Architectures based on stand-alone client/server database applications that attempt to
represent business process modeling through point-to-point interfaces and custom data
Manufacturing
transformation between applications. For more, see
1.0 (W)
https://services.mesa.org/ResourceLibrary/ShowResource/c604a2e1-f3b6-4411-a8f8-
dbff278d2b16.
Provides detailed elements and relationships that enable manufacturing operations
within and across production facilities. Explains that the manufacturing master data
management (Mfg MDM) is different than MDM on the ESB for the enterprise business
processes. Manufacturing architectures that capitalize on existing investments by using
Manufacturing
manufacturing SOA instead of ripping and replacing them with monolithic applications,
2.0 (W)
leverage ISA ISA-95/OAGIS models for manufacturing services, and utilize manufacturing
services bus architectures. For more, see
https://services.mesa.org/ResourceLibrary/ShowResource/c604a2e1-f3b6-4411-a8f8-
dbff278d2b16.
Systems responsible for measuring, monitoring and manipulating production, people,
products and processes.
FDA statement: Each manufacturer shall develop, conduct, control and monitor
Manufacturing
production processes to ensure that a device conforms to its specifications. Where
Control System
deviations from device specifications could occur because of the manufacturing process,
(MCS)
the manufacturer shall establish and maintain process control procedures that describe
any process controls necessary to ensure conformance to specifications. See Distributed
Control System for more.
Manufacturing The rate at which items are completed for some process stage.
Cycle Time (W)
Manufacturing Software designed to support manufacturing enterprises; includes a wide variety of
Enterprise systems as described in MESA White Paper #9.
Solutions (W)
Systems that deliver information, enabling the optimization of production activities from
order to launch to finished goods. Using current and accurate data, MES guides, initiates,
Manufacturing responds to and reports on plant activities as they occur. The resulting rapid response to
Execution System changing conditions, coupled with a focus on reducing non-value-added activities, drives
(MES) (O) effective plant operations and processes. MES improves the return on operational assets
as well as on-time delivery, inventory turns, gross margin and cash flow performance.
MES provides mission critical information about production activities across the
Manufacturing The time for a manufacturing operation to fulfill an order. For more, see
Lead Time https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lead_time.
Manufacturing A methodology for viewing an end-to-end manufacturing process with a view to
Operations optimizing efficiency. Activities within level 3 of a manufacturing facility that coordinate
Management the personnel, equipment and material in manufacturing. For more, see
(MOM) (W) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manufacturing_operations_management .
The predecessor of ERP, a software-based production planning and inventory control
system used to manage manufacturing processes. An MRP system is intended to
Manufacturing
simultaneously meet three objectives: ensures materials and products are available for
Resource
production and delivery to customers; maintains the lowest possible level of inventory;
Planning (MRPII)
and plans manufacturing activities, delivery schedules and purchasing activities. For
more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=MRPII.
Manufacturing ESB extended with manufacturing content such as services and integration standards
Service Bus support.
(MSB) (O)
Manufacturing Automation Protocol. For more, see
MAP
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manufacturing_Automation_Protocol.
Mass The ability of a customer to buy a product or service pre-designed (customized) to fit
Customization their exact needs. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mass_customization.
(O)
Key data that is relevant to the enterprise of products, customers and suppliers. For
Master Data
more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Master_data.
A set of processes and tools that consistently define and manage an organization’s non-
transactional data entities. Its objective is to provide processes for collecting,
aggregating, matching, consolidating, quality assuring, persisting and distributing such
Master Data
data throughout an organization to ensure consistency and control in the ongoing
Management
maintenance and application use of this information. At a basic level, MDM seeks to
(MDM)
ensure that an organization does not use multiple (potentially inconsistent) versions of
the same master data in different parts of its operations, which can occur in large
organizations. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Master_data_management .
Material The predecessor of Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRPII). For more, see
Requirements https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Material_requirements_planning.
Planning (MRP)
A cross-functional group that reviews production or purchased items on hold that is due
Material Review
to usability concerns and determines their disposition, which may include rework, scrap
Board (MRB)
or return to the vendor.
Material Safety A document used for the manufacture and import of hazardous material that specifies its
Data Sheet substances and properties, and associated health and safety hazards. MSDS details
(MSDS) control and safe handling methods, expiration dates or other timing constraints. For
more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Safety_data_sheet.
A concept from “Manufacturing 2.0” that refers to a computerized environment
Manufacturing (workbench) that supports composition of manufacturing processes from a “pallet” of
Composition manufacturing services. For more, see
Environment http://www.mesa.org/conference/2008/na/ppt/soapanel.pdf and
(MCE) https://services.mesa.org/resourcelibrary/showresource/c604a2e1-f3b6-4411-a8f8-
dbff278d2b16 . This concept also applies to Cloud Manufacturing.
Widely used as the measurement of a product's reliability and performance, this value
often is calculated by dividing the total operating time of the units tested by the total
number of failures encountered. This metric, which is valid only when the data is
Mean Time to
exponentially distributed (a poor assumption which implies that the failure rate is
Failure (MTTF)
constant), is then used as the sole measure of a product's reliability. For more, see
(W)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mean_time_between_failures for a comparison of MTTF
to MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures, which assumes a failed system immediately is
repaired).
MESA (O) Manufacturing Enterprise Solutions Association. For more, see www.mesa.org .
Message Software that resides in both portions of client/server architecture, and that typically
Oriented supports asynchronous calls between the client and server applications. For more, see
Middleware https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Message-oriented_middleware.
(MOM)
Derived from the number of possible cross-connections in a network grow as the square
Metcalfe’s Law of the number of computers in the network increases. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metcalfe%27s_law.
MFG Manufacturing. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manufacturing.
Material Handling Industry [of America] (MHIA) is a trade association that represents the
MHI[A]
U.S. material handling and logistics industry. For more, see http://www.mhi.org/.
Materials Management module for SAP ERP system. For more, see
MM http://www.saponlinetutorials.com/what-is-sap-mm-sap-material-management-
module/.
Manufacturing Master Data Management. For more, see
mMDM
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Master_data_management.
MO&C Manufacturing Operations & Control.
MOC Manufacturing Operation Categories.
The practice of using 3D models (such as solid models, 3D PMI and associated metadata)
Model-based
within 3D CAD software to define (provide specifications for) individual components and
Definition (Digital
product assemblies. The types of information included are geometric dimensioning and
Product
tolerance (GD&T), component level materials, assembly level bills of materials,
Definition)
engineering configurations and design intent.
Model-based The vision for a fully integrated and collaborative environment founded on 3D product
Enterprise definition detailed and shared across the enterprise; to enable rapid, seamless and
affordable deployment of products from concept to disposal. The foundational elements
of a MBE are a single digital master data set containing the 3D model and all needed
product data in a managed secure and controlled environment that supports maximum
data reuse for all aspects of acquisition, maintenance and operations.
The process of monitoring, analyzing and providing alerts regarding defects and issues
Non- that occur anywhere in the product lifecycle, including issues that arise at the customer
conformance site. See a definition from Siemens
Management http://camstar.industrysoftware.automation.siemens.com/en/resources/glossary/definit
ion-of-nonconformance-management/.
operational-performance-management.
Open System Architecture for Condition-based Monitoring. For more, see
OSA-CBM
http://www.mimosa.org/mimosa-osa-cbm.
OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration. For more, see https://www.osha.gov/.
Open Systems Interconnect. For more, see
OSI
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Open_Systems_Interconnection.
Operations Technology – the hardware and software technologies employed for
monitoring physical assets, processes and/or devices. Typically such technology are
OT or Operations
embodied in systems such as MES, HMI, SCADA, control and automation applications
Technology
(PLC, DCS and other). For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operational_Technology.
OTD On Time Delivery.
Overall Computed measure based on availability of equipment, its production speed and the
Equipment resulting quality. For more, see
Effectiveness https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Overall_equipment_effectiveness.
(OEE)
Price-to-Earnings Ratio. For more, see
P&E
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Price%E2%80%93earnings_ratio.
Proportional-integral-derivative-control is a closed loop feedback control method
PID
process used in industry. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PID_controller.
Piping and instrumentation diagram. For more, see
P&ID
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piping_and_instrumentation_diagram
Product & Process Engineering, which includes computer-aided design and
manufacturing (CAD/CAM), process modeling and product data management. For more,
P&PE or P/PE see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Process_engineering and
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Product_engineering.
An alternate genre of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) in which the process used to
make the product is as important as the product itself. Typically, this is found in the life
P&PLM or PPLM sciences and advanced specialty chemicals markets. The process behind the manufacture
or Product and of a given compound is a key element of the regulatory filing for a new drug application.
Process Life Cycle As such, PPLM seeks to manage information around the development of the process in a
Management and similar fashion that baseline PLM manages information around development of the
PDES (Process product.
Development One variant of PPLM is a Process Development Execution System (PDESS). For more, see
Execution https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Process_development_execution_system.
Systems)
For a general overview on PLM and PPLM, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Product_lifecycle.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Process_automation_system.
PAT Process Analytical Technology.
Production Data Management. For more, see
PDM
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Product_data_management.
POI or Perfect Order fulfillment metrics used in the logistics industry. For more, see
Order Index, https://logisticsviewpoints.com/2014/11/10/a-critical-fulfillment-metric-the-perfect-
POM or Perfect order/.
Order Metric
Comparing measured results in the plant to goals and metrics set by the corporation,
customers or regulatory bodies. Provides up-to-the-minute reporting of actual
manufacturing operations results along with the comparison to past history and
expected business results. Performance results include measurements such as resource
Performance
utilization, resource availability, product unit cycle time, conformance to schedule and
Analytics
performance to standards. May include SPC/SQL. Draws on information gathered from
different functions that measure operating parameters. These results may be prepared
as a report or presented online as a current evaluation of performance. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Business_performance_management.
Preliminary hazard analysis (PHA), a semi-quantitative analysis performed to:
1. Identify all potential hazards and accidental events that may lead to an accident
PHA
2. Rank the identified accidental events according to their severity
3. Identify required hazard controls and follow-up actions
A model that describes the physical hierarchy of the equipment in an enterprise. The
Physical hierarchical model maps the physical assets to specific locations in the enterprise. ISA-95
Hierarchy Model provides a standard for the definition of equipment hierarchy. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ANSI/ISA-95.
Also known as Plant-to-Enterprise (P2E); interface or interoperability between the
Plant-to-Business
business (ERP) and plant systems (level 1, 2 and 3). See ANSI/ISA-95 as an example. For
(P2B) (W)
more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ANSI/ISA-95.
Plant-to- Also known as Plant-to-Business (P2B); interface or interoperability between the
Enterprise (P2E) business (ERP) and plant systems (level 1, 2 and 3). See ANSI/ISA-95 as an example. For
(W) more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ANSI/ISA-95.
PLPM Product Line Performance Management.
Preventative Maintenance, a proactive method of maintaining physical assets by
performing regular checks on a routine basis at regular intervals (or based on usage
PM
patterns) in order to prevent failures. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Preventive_maintenance.
Process Monitoring and Control. For more, see
PMC
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Process_control.
POD Proof of Delivery. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Proof_of_delivery.
In the early days of system integration, this was the main method of exchanging
information between a client and server. The client had to know about the server, and
the server had to know about the client. In addition, each of the integrated computers
Point-to-Point
had to use the same protocol and information format in order to communicate. Although
Integration
still a very common means of integration, this method becomes expensive if integrating
more than a few points. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enterprise_application_integration.
Production Operations Management. For more, see
POM
http://www.managementstudyguide.com/production-and-operations-management.htm.
A nonprofit, global standardization member organization that promotes the
development of open specifications used as standards for enabling the interoperability of
POSC Caesar
data, software and related matters. PCA initiated ISO 15926, “Integration of lifecycle data
Association (PCA)
for process plants, including oil and gas production facilities" and is committed to its
maintenance and enhancement. For more, see https://www.posccaesar.org/.
Portable Operating System Interface for Computer Environments. For more, see
POSIX
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/POSIX.
A SAP ERP system that has a Production Planning (PP) module and is divided into two
sub-modules, “PP-PI” and “Production General.” PP-PI sub-module is designed for
PP-PI process industries like oil and gas. For more, see
https://help.sap.com/saphelp_erp60_sp/helpdata/en/30/edba53422bb54ce10000000a1
74cb4/frameset.htm.
Performance Qualification. For more, see
PQ
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Process_performance_qualification_protocol.
The FDA has defined Process Analytical Technology (PAT) as “a system for designing,
analyzing and controlling manufacturing through timely measurements (i.e., during
processing) of critical quality and performance attributes of raw and in process materials
and processes with the goal of ensuring final product quality.” Furthermore, the FDA
states that the “desired goal of the PAT framework is to design and develop processes
Process that can consistently ensure a predefined quality at the end of the manufacturing
Analytical process. Such procedures would be consistent with the basic tenet of quality by design
Technology (PAT) and could reduce risks to quality and regulatory concerns while improving efficiency.
The long-term goals of PAT are to reduce production cycle times, increase automation,
prevent rejection of batches, reduce energy and material use, enable real-time release
and facilitate continuous improvement. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Process_analytical_technology.
The older context of Process Choreography is in business process management, but with
the advent of Industrie 4.0 technologies, Process Choreography represents a dynamic
synthesis of “connected” unit business processes via M2M and H2M interactions.
Process
Choreography Often, a production event (e.g. a vehicle arriving at an assembly line workstation) will
need to trigger interactions between many different manufacturing and/or business
systems. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Business_Process_Execution_Language and
https://services.mesa.org/resourcelibrary/showresource/c604a2e1-f3b6-4411-a8f8-
dbff278d2b16.
Process Changes or adjustments made to a process in order to get more cost effective and/or
Optimization efficient results. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Process_optimization.
Within the ANSI/ISA-95 model; a logical grouping of personnel resources, equipment,
resources and material required to carry out a manufacturing production step. Process
Process Segment segments usually define the needed classes of personnel, equipment and material, but
may define specific resources such as specific equipment needed. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ANSI/ISA-95.
PRODML (Production Markup Language) is an industry initiative to provide open, non-
PRODML proprietary, standard interfaces between software tools used to monitor, manage and
optimize hydrocarbon production. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PRODML.
An alternate genre of PLM, in which the process that makes the product is as important
as the product itself. Typically, this is in the life sciences and advanced specialty
Product and
chemicals markets. The process behind the manufacture of a given compound is a key
Process Lifecycle
element of the regulatory filing for a new drug application. As such, PPLM seeks to
Management
manage information around the development of the process in a similar fashion that
(P&PLM or PPLM)
baseline PLM manages information around development of the product. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Product_lifecycle.
An expanded view of product definition functions that include a bill of material and
Product Data
routing database, current and historical engineering data, and specifications and
Management
engineering change order history. For more, see
(PDM)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Product_data_management.
An electronic record of information regarding the manufacturing history of a product at
all levels of production from its introduction through to its completion, including parts
Product
and materials used in the product manufacturing. For a definition from SAP, see
Genealogy (O)
http://help.sap.com/saphelp_me52/helpdata/en/39/b66efe3ff44dc0b3c0e3053a1c4d88
/content.htm.
Product Lifecycle The process of managing the entire product lifecycle from its conception through
Management design, manufacture and through its service and disposal.
(PLM) For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Product_lifecycle.
The idea of seeing a manufacturing (or service) organization as a system, made up of
subsystems, each with inputs, transformation processes and outputs. The inputs,
transformation processes and outputs involve the acquisition and consumption of
Product Value
resources - money, labor, materials, equipment, buildings, land, administration and
Chain
management. Value chain activities are carried out beyond the walls of the brand
owner and throughout organizations, involving the engineering, production and supply
chain. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Value_chain.
Monitoring the progress of units, batches or lots of output to create a full history of the
product. Provides visibility to where work is at all times and its disposition. Status
information may include who is working on it; components materials by supplier, llot,
serial number, current production conditions and any alarms, rework or other exceptions
related to the product. The on-line tracking function creates a historical record, as well.
Product Tracking As an example, if a product fails or is found defective in the field, the failure can be
and Genealogy traced back to where the product was built, how it was built and with what components,
(W) the components’ lot numbers and, if a third party vendor supplied the components, the
vendor’s identity. This, in turn, enables the tracking of every other assembly wherein a
component from the same lot has been used, therefore localizing the points at which a
defective component may have been used in other products. This can reduce costly
product recalls.
Information exchanged about what was made and what resources were used.
Performance is measured in terms of efficiency, effectiveness, quality, production
Production
Performance speed, availability etc. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Production_theory#Production_growth_and_performance
.
Information exchanged about how to make a product.
Production Rule
Information exchanged about what to make, when and where to make it, and what
Production
resources to use. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Production_schedule.
Schedule
Quality Recording, tracking and analyzing product and process characteristics against
Management engineering ideals. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quality_management.
(QM)
QMS standards, including ISO9001, AS9100, ISO13485 and FDA Title 21 CFR Part 820,
define a formal system that documents processes, procedures and responsibilities for
Quality
achieving quality policies and objectives. A QMS helps coordinate and direct an
Management
organization’s activities to meet customer and regulatory requirements and improve its
System (QMS)
effectiveness and efficiency on a continuous basis. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quality_management_system.
A network or system agreement that specifies uptime, response time, acceptable error
Quality of Service rates and other conditions for a given service and designated user base. This is an
(QoS) important concept for manufacturing systems deemed “critical” to operations (i.e. must
be available at all times). For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quality_of_service.
A framework for achieving a recognized level of quality within an organization.
Quality Standard Achievement of a quality standard demonstrates that an organization has met the
(QS) requirements laid out by a certifying body. One of the best example is ISO 9000. For
more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISO_9000.
Used to analyze quality test activities of a specific laboratory and how they are supported
Quality Test by automation systems and manual ad hoc data exchanges (paper tools). Defines the
Operations responsible department(s) or persons for each activity, and also the data exchange
Management between activities and system users/owners. For more, see ISA-95
Model (QOM)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ANSI/ISA-95.
A location and identification system using radio frequency signals that employs a
transceiver, antenna and tag associated with a product and location to transmit data.
Radio Frequency The systems do not require a direct line of sight or contact and can transmit at high
Identification speed, but are more costly than other data collection technologies such as bar coding.
(RFID) RFID systems are often used for inventory tracking in large warehouse and distribution
center facilities. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radio-
frequency_identification.
An identification system that places small radio frequency transmitters, called tags, into
Radio Frequency
or onto a product, animal or person for purposes of tracking or recording movement or
Identification Tag
location. Tags are read by or written to by compatible radio transmitters/receivers. For
(RFID Tag)
more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radio-frequency_identification#Tags.
Reliability, Applies to the robustness and availability of computer systems and important to “mission
Availability and critical” manufacturing systems (that must be available at all times). For more, see
Serviceability https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reliability,_availability_and_serviceability.
(RAS)
Resource Consumption Accounting, also Root Cause Analysis. For more, see
RCA https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Resource_consumption_accounting.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Root_cause_analysis.
Recipe A system for distributing recipes (in recipe-driven process manufacturing) to distributed
Distribution systems used to manage that type of manufacturing. See
Management https://help.sap.com/saphelp_erp60_sp/helpdata/en/bd/0b8b3a61bd2634e10000000a1
System (RDMS) 14084/content.htm for an SAP explanation.
Control or process instructions that include work instructions (what and how to build);
equipment instructions (what and how to use); operator instructions (who to use,
Recipes & Recipe when/how to use, safety, data collection, scheduling); machine instructions (which to use
Management (W) and how); and scheduling instructions (when to build). Recipe Management is the
process of following the correct recipe for each product. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISA-88.
Return Goods A transaction whereby the recipient of a product arranges to return goods to the supplier
Authorization to have the product repaired or replaced, or in order to receive a refund or credit for
(RGA) and Return another product from the same retailer or corporation. In practice, an RMA is issued only
Material after a series of tests. Also called Return Merchandise Authorization or Return Goods
Authorization Authorization (RGA). For more, see
(RMA) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Return_merchandise_authorization.
An indicator of how profitable a company is relative to its total assets. ROA gives an idea
Return on Assets as to how efficient management is at using its assets to generate earnings. Calculated by
(ROA) dividing a company's annual earnings by its total assets, ROA is displayed as a
percentage. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Return_on_assets.
The rate of return of money saved/gained on the project relative to the amount of
Return on money invested. Typically measured by the period of time it takes to recoup the initial
Investment (ROI) investment. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Return_on_investment.
A company’s measure of financial performance, which takes assets into account. RONA is
Return on Net
calculated as profit after tax divided by (fixed assets plus working capital). For more, see
Assets (RONA)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Return_on_net_assets.
A measure of how effectively a company uses its assets. Calculated as income before
Return on Total
interest and tax divided by (fixed assets plus current assets). For more, see
Assets (ROTA)
http://www.investopedia.com/terms/r/return_on_total_assets.asp.
Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative. For more, see
RGGI
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Regional_Greenhouse_Gas_Initiative.
See Return Material Authorization; also known as Return to Manufacturer Authorization
RMA or Return Merchandise Authorization. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Return_merchandise_authorization.
RosettaNet Implementation Framework. Fopr more, see
RNIF
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RosettaNet.
Return on Capital Employed. For more, see
ROCE
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Return_on_capital_employed.
Return on Invested Capital. For more, see
ROIC
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Return_on_capital.
A class of problem solving methods aimed at identifying the root causes of problems or
events. The practice of RCA is predicated on the belief that problems are best solved by
attempting to correct or eliminate root causes, as opposed to merely addressing the
immediately obvious symptoms. By directing corrective measures at root causes, the
Root Cause
hope is to minimize the likelihood of problem recurrence. However, it recognizes that
Analysis (RCA)
complete prevention of recurrence by a single intervention is not always possible.
Therefore, RCA is considered an iterative process, and is frequently viewed as a tool of
continuous improvement. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Root_cause_analysis.
Return on Sales See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operating_margin.
(ROS)
In electric power systems, the basic objective of RPO is to identify the optimal setting of
control variables that will minimize the total transmission line loss, or absolute value of
total voltage deviation or improvement in the voltage stability index. This is
Reactive Power
accomplished by the appropriate adjustment of reactive power variables like generator
Optimization
voltage magnitudes, transformer tap settings and switchable VAR sources. As an
(RPO)
example, see
http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.428.7327&rep=rep1&type=p
df.
Real-time (RT) See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Real-time.
Real-time See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Response_time_(technology).
Dispatcher (RTD)
Real-time See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Real-time_database.
Database (RTDB)
Real-time A knowledge-based system that supports decision-making under real-time conditions.
Knowledge-based For more, see http://www.aaai.org/ojs/index.php/aimagazine/article/view/660.
System (RTKBS)
Remote Terminal See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Remote_terminal_unit.
Unit (RTU)
Site Acceptance See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acceptance_testing.
Testing (SAT)
SCADA or Software systems and algorithms used to provide real-time instructions to plant
Supervisory automation equipment such as programmable logic controllers (PLC). For more, see
Control and Data https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SCADA.
Acquisition
Also known as a Corrective Action Request (CAR),t is a part of the quality and compliance
process and a regulatory requirement that FDA and global regulatory authorities
Supplier
consider critical to the automation of supplier corrective actions. For more, see
Corrective Action
http://www.lockheedmartin.com/content/dam/lockheed/data/aero/documents/scm/qu
Requests (SCAR)
ality/information/Webinar-CorrectiveActionRequest%20Levels-Criteria.pdf and
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FDA_warning_letter.
Supply Chain See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Supply-Chain_Council.
Council (SCC)
Supply Chain Execution systems and technologies group within the MHIA. For more, see
SCE of MHIA
http://www.mhi.org/issg.
Supply Chain Supply Chain Optimization. For more, see
Optimization https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Supply_chain_optimization.
(SCO)
A management tool used to address, improve and communicate supply chain
SCOR or Supply management decisions within a company and with suppliers and customers of a
Chain Operations company. The model describes the business processes required to satisfy a customer’s
Reference demands. It also helps to explain the processes along the entire supply chain and
provides a basis for how to improve those processes. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Supply-chain_operations_reference.
The percentage of output from a process that fails inspection and cannot be reworked.
Scrap Rate
For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scrap.
Simplified - Drum-Buffer Rope. For more, see
S-DBR http://www.goldratt.co.uk/resources/drum_buffer_rope/.
A type of conceptual data model that supports the modeling of entities and their
relationships. However, it differs from a classical RDB in many ways, including there is no
schema for the model, and the data includes the relations which can then be changed at
any time.
Semantic Model The total set of entities in the semantic model comprises the taxonomy of classes used in
the model to represent the real world. Together these ideas are represented by an
ontology - the vocabulary of the semantic model that provides the basis on which user-
defined model queries are formed. The model supports the representation of entities
and their relationships but can also support the constraints on those relationships and
entities. This provides the semantic makeup of the information model. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Semantic_data_model.
An innovative business model that allows manufacturers to sell products and services
together as a product-service system. This model allows for organizations to leverage Big
Data , cloud and IIoT technologies to achieve competitive advantage in their offerings.
Servitization Servitization has several manifestations – product-as-a-service and platform-as-a-service
are two examples relevant to manufacturing organizations. For more, see
1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Product-service_system.
2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Platform_as_a_service.
Sales Force See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sales_force_management_system.
Automation (SFA)
Sequential See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sequential_function_chart.
Function (or
Flow) Chart (SFC)
Serialization is the process of assigning unique, traceable serial numbers to saleable prod-
ucts (e.g. a bottle of drugs) so that product can be traced, from a sourcing perspective,
when needed for maintenance issues, recalls, etc. Serialization can have a ripple effect
Serialization through the manufacturing process and might result in components being serialized as
well, especially safety related components (such as tires and air bags in the automotive
industry). See https://www.packagingdigest.com/serialization/pmp-serialization-why-
manufacturers-packagers-must-prepare-now-151104 for more on this topic.
Shop Floor The hardware and software systems that embody Operational Technology (OT) on the
Systems shop floor. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operational_Technology.
A factor related to the characteristics that drives MES implementation architectures. The
speed at which products move through a plant also dictates how rapidly transactions
Short Cycle Time
must be processed to measure operational performance. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cycle_time_variation.
The set of supply chain activities that focus on fulfillment rather than planning such as
Supply Chain raw material delivery, manufacturing operations and shipments to customers, and
Execution (SCE) internal and external distribution points. Execution functions receive requirements from
the planning cycle and provide the actual data in plan versus actual measurements.
Derived from the German word, “taktzeit,” which translates to cycle time, takt time sets
the pace for industrial manufacturing lines. For example, in automobile manufacturing
cars are assembled on a line and moved on to the next station after a certain time - the
Takt time (W) takt time. The time needed to complete work on each station has to be less than the takt
time in order to complete the product within the allotted time. Takt time concept aims to
match the pace of production with customer demand. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Takt_time.
A standard defined by the Object Management Group (OMG) that enables software
The Common
components written in multiple computer languages and running on multiple computers
Object Request
to work together. Perhaps the first implementation of the idea of Service-oriented
Broker
Architecture, although developed before the term SOA was coined. It is useful in
Architecture
information interoperability in MES systems. For more, see www.corba.org.
(CORBA)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_Object_Request_Broker_Architecture.
Time to Volume Time to market, plus the additional time to achieve business volumes commensurate
(TTV) with success. For more, see http://simplicable.com/new/time-to-volume.
The base unit, by which an item is normally stocked, costed and ordered. Planning and
Unit of Measure costing systems must translate vendor or customer orders based on alternate measures
(UOM) into a common unit for consistency. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Units_of_measurement.
United Nations The mission of the United Nations Centre for Trade Facilitation and Electronic Business
Centre for Trade (UN/CEFACT) is to improve the ability of business, trade and administrative
Facilitation and organizations, from developed, developing and transitional economies, to exchange
Electronic products and relevant services effectively - and so contribute to the growth of global
Business commerce. The Centre is a subsidiary body of the UNECE Committee on Trade (United
(UN/CEFACT) Nations Economic Commission for Europe). For more, see www.unece.org/cefact/.
A process to obtain confirmation by a Subject Matter Expert (SME), preferably the owner
or client of the object under test, through trial or review, so that a system meets
User Acceptance mutually agreed-upon requirements. In software development, UAT is one of the final
Testing (UAT) stages of a project and often occurs before a client or customer accepts the new system.
For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acceptance_testing#User_acceptance_testing.
In the industrial design field of human-machine interaction, the user interface is a place
where interaction between humans and machines occurs. The goal of this interaction is
User Interface
effective operation and control of the machine, and feedback from the machine, which
(UI)
aids the operator in making operational decisions. For more, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User_interface and HMI in this document.
Value-add Activities that create value for the manufacturing organization in the form of a product.
Activity
Virtual Computer simulation of a manufacturing process, used to support analysis. For more, see
Manufacturing http://searchmanufacturingerp.techtarget.com/definition/virtual-manufacturing.
(W)
A technique for optimizing a “to-be” version of a value chain. For more, see
Value Stream
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Value_stream_mapping.
Mapping (VSM)
The Organization for Production Technology (formerly World Batch Forum). The
organization is dedicated to supporting the process automation and operations needs of
technical and management professions in process manufacturing. WBF facilitates the
WBF interchange and development of information and knowledge in order to help its
members succeed and to exert a positive influence on industry. For more, see
www.mesa.org.
A Web Service (also Web service) is defined by the W3C as "a software system designed
to support interoperable machine-to-machine interaction over a network. A Web Service
Web Service has an interface described in a machine-process able format (specifically WSDL). Other
systems interact with the Web Service in a manner prescribed by its description using
SOAP-messages, typically conveyed using HTTP with an XML serialization in conjunction
with other Web-related standards." Web Services are frequently just Internet Application
Programming Interfaces (API) that can be accessed over a network, such as the internet,
and executed on a remote system hosting the requested services. Other approaches with
nearly the same functionality as Web Services are Object Management Group's (OMG)
Common Object Request Broker Architecture (CORBA), Microsoft's Distributed
Component Object Model (DCOM) or Sun Microsystems' Java/Remote Method
Invocation (RMI).
Describes how to perform a task, which is a more detailed portion of the procedure such
as completing a PO or ordering supplies. More detail may be needed than that described
Work Instruction in the procedures. Many businesses include work instructions to aid in training, reduce
(WI) mistakes, serve as a point of reference for jobs etc. Processes, procedures and work
instructions are all part of the general ISO requirements package. From ISO 9000,see
http://the9000store.com/iso-9000-tips-process-procedure-work-instruction.aspx.
A software application designed to support warehouse or distribution center
management and staff. A WMS facilitates management in daily planning, organizing,
Warehouse
staffing, directing and controlling the utilization of available resources in order to move
Management
and store materials into, within and out of a warehouse, while supporting staff in the
System (WMS)
performance of material movement and storage in and around a warehouse. For more,
see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Warehouse_management_system.
Work Order A work order management system that allows users to manage effectively manages work
Management order flow and distribution.
(WOM)
A component of a production line; the production line can be made up of many work
Work Cell cells. For more, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Workcell.
A special computer designed for specific technical or industrial applications. For more,
Workstation (WS) see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Workstation.
REFERENCES
The MESA Collaborative Manufacturing Dictionary contains terms, acronyms and
definitions from the MESA Global Education Program courses, whitepapers,
presentations, guidebooks, webcasts and other MESA materials in the MESA Resource
Library.
Charlie Gifford
Chief Manufacturing Consultant
21st Century Manufacturing Solutions LLC
(208) 788-5434
charlie.gifford@cox.net
Gerhard Greeff
Divisional Manager: Process Management & Control
Bytes Systems Integration (Pty) Ltd
(+27) (11) 205-7000
gerhard.greeff@bytes.co.za
Dave Noller
Executive Architect
IBM Watson IoT
540-230-3302
nollerd@us.ibm.com
Gary Mintchell
Editor-in-Chief
Automation World Magazine
(312) 222-1010
gmintchell@automationworld.com
Ananth Seshan
CEO
5G Automatika Ltd
(416) 889-7864
aseshan@5gautomatika.com
Karen Smiley
kjsmiley@ieee.org
Brad Williams
Field Enablement Team Manager
Invensys
(610) 790-1828
brad.williams@invensys.com
Gary Mintchell
Editor-in-Chief
Automation World Magazine
(312) 222-1010
gmintchell@automationworld.com
Greg Ella
Senior Application Engineer
ATS Applied Tech Systems Ltd.
(+44) (0) 247- 635 2481
greg.ella@ats-global.com
Alex Mouncer
Assistant Application Engineer
ATS Applied Tech Systems Ltd.
(+44) (0) 247 - 635 2481
alex.mouncer@ats-global.com
Kamal Ajitsaria
Geometrics Software
Paul Ashmore
Digital Applications International
Piyush Batwal
Geometrics Software
Chiranjit Daripa
Larsen & Toubro Limited
Mike Gay
Rockwell Automation
Mark Geibels
Atos Origin
John Jackiw
Alta Via Consulting
Jan Snoej
Logica
Chad Vincent
Baxter Healthcare
Brad Williams
Invensys
About MESA:
MESA promotes the exchange of best practices, strategies and innovation in managing
manufacturing operations and in achieving plant-floor execution excellence. MESA’s
industry events, symposiums, and publications help manufacturers, systems integrators
and vendors achieve manufacturing leadership by deploying practical solutions that
combine information, business, manufacturing and supply chain processes and
technologies. Visit us online at http://www.mesa.org.