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  “If you can’t describe what you are doing as a process, you don’t know what you’re doing.” — W. Edwards Deming In manufacturing, this quote from W. Edwards Deming isn’t just a clever observation—it’s a challenge. It urges us to confront the reality that without a clearly defined process, we’re operating on assumptions, not knowledge. What Deming Really Meant Deming, a pioneer in quality and systems thinking, believed that improvement begins with understanding. A process is a repeatable, measurable series of steps with defined inputs and outputs. If you can’t describe it, you can’t control it. And if you can’t control it, you certainly can’t improve it. Applying the Quote to Manufacturing Manufacturing thrives on precision. Whether you're machining parts or assembling electronics, every step must be documented and standardized: Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) ensure consistency and reduce human error. Workflow documentation helps teams visualize the entire production cycle. P...

In manufacturing, greatness isn’t gifted—it’s practiced. The shop floor isn’t just a place where products are made; it’s a living classroom where every cycle, every shift, and every repetition becomes a lesson. Malcolm Gladwell captured this truth perfectly when he said: “Practice isn't the thing you do once you're good. It's the thing you do that makes you good.” This quote isn’t just motivational—it’s operational. It speaks directly to the heart of how excellence is built in manufacturing environments: through deliberate, consistent practice. Practice Isn’t Just Doing—It’s Learning On the shop floor, practice isn’t passive repetition. It’s active learning that transforms workers from task-doers into problem-solvers and innovators. Here’s how: Feedback Accelerates Learning Real-time feedback from supervisors, machines, and data helps workers correct mistakes and refine techniques. Statistic: Feedback loops can accelerate skill development by up to 23% . Mentorship Builds ...

  As manufacturers increasingly rely on cloud-based platforms like Plex ERP to streamline operations, cybersecurity becomes a critical pillar of business continuity. With sensitive production data, customer information, and supply chain workflows housed in the cloud, protecting user access is no longer optional—it’s essential. This article explores how Plex ERP aligns with cybersecurity best practices, including NIST 800-171 guidelines, and outlines actionable steps manufacturers can take to secure their cloud login environments. Plex ERP’s Security Framework: Built for the Cloud Plex has implemented a robust identity and access management system that supports secure user authentication and flexible policy enforcement. Here are key highlights: Password Policy Based on NIST 800-171 In alignment with NIST’s recommendations, Plex has eliminated mandatory password expiration. This change is based on research showing that frequent password resets often lead to insecure practices—such as...

  In fast-paced manufacturing environments, every second counts. Whether you're tracking inventory, , or printing part labels, the ability to print quickly and accurately from the shop floor is essential. That’s where Plex Mobile  come together to deliver a seamless, efficient solution. Why Label Printing Matters Labeling isn’t just about identification—it’s about traceability, compliance, and operational clarity. When operators can print directly from mobile devices to nearby ZPL label  printers, it eliminates bottlenecks and empowers real-time action. Benefits of Controlling and Managing Default Printers for Shop Floor Users Setting up default printers for shop floor users—especially those printing from scanners—offers tangible advantages: Improved Workflow Efficiency Streamlined Printing Process : No need to select a printer each time—just tap and print. Reduced Errors : Automatically routing to the correct printer avoids misprints and wasted materials. Increased User ...

In today’s smart manufacturing environments, the shop floor is evolving. It’s no longer just about machines and materials—it’s about people. Skilled, informed, and empowered employees are the backbone of operational excellence. Enforcing training requirements through Plex ERP isn’t just a compliance measure—it’s a strategic investment in your workforce. Why Training Matters More Than Ever Modern manufacturing demands agility, precision, and accountability. When operators are properly trained, they don’t just follow instructions—they understand the “why” behind every process. This shift transforms them from task-doers into knowledge workers: individuals who contribute insight, solve problems, and elevate quality. Training is more than a safety protocol—it’s the foundation of a culture built on continuous improvement. And with Plex ERP, enforcing and tracking that training becomes seamless. How Plex ERP Supports Training Enforcement Plex ERP offers two powerful features to ensure only qu...

Every October, Cybersecurity Awareness Month reminds us that online safety isn’t just an IT issue—it’s a shared responsibility. Now in its 22nd year, this global initiative is co-led by the National Cybersecurity Alliance and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), two trusted organizations committed to building a safer digital world. Why Cybersecurity Matters More Than Ever Cyber threats are growing in scale and sophistication. Consider these eye-opening statistics: 91% of cyberattacks start with phishing emails, targeting unsuspecting users with fake links and urgent requests. 60% of breaches involve human error, such as weak passwords or misconfigured systems. Organizations that invest in security awareness training see user reporting increase by 4x, helping stop threats before they escalate. These numbers aren’t just data—they’re a call to action. Become a Cybersecurity Champion Want to lead the charge in your workplace, school, or community? You can...

  In the world of manufacturing and supply chain management, effective planning is crucial for maintaining efficiency and meeting customer demands. Reviewing part planning parameters is a vital step in optimizing Material Requirements Planning (MRP) and Production Requirements Planning (PRP). By ensuring that key master files are accurately managed and regularly reviewed, organizations can avoid common pitfalls and enhance their operational performance. Key Part Planning Parameters Part planning parameters are essential metrics that guide inventory management, production scheduling, and supplier interactions. Here are some of the critical parameters that planners should focus on: Lead Time Days : The time required to procure or produce a part. Accurate lead times help in scheduling and reducing stockouts. Minimum Inventory Quantity : The lowest acceptable level of inventory before reordering. This parameter prevents stockouts and ensures production continuity. Unit : The measuremen...

  Part specifications are essential in manufacturing, serving as detailed requirements that ensure the delivery of an acceptable end product. In the Plex ERP system, utilizing part specifications and templates can significantly enhance quality control, streamline processes, and improve overall efficiency. Here’s a closer look at the benefits of these tools. Ensuring Quality Control Part specifications define the characteristics that a product must meet, which can include physical dimensions, process characteristics, and tolerances. By implementing these specifications in Plex ERP, manufacturers can: Establish Clear Standards : Specifications provide a clear framework for what is acceptable, allowing teams to understand the requirements for each part. This clarity helps in maintaining consistent quality across production runs. Facilitate Inspections : During quality checks, inspectors can compare measurements against established specifications to determine if a product is in complia...