Artificial Intelligence is changing manufacturing—but the organizations seeing the greatest value aren't replacing their Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES). They're building on them.

In our latest MESA podcast, MES and AI: Better Together, we explore why MES remains one of the most valuable foundations for industrial AI. AI needs more than data—it needs trusted, contextualized, governed operational information. MES provides the manufacturing context that transforms raw signals into meaningful insights.

Our discussion covers:
• Why MES gives manufacturers a head start on AI adoption
• How to prepare operational data for AI-driven applications
• Common pitfalls organizations encounter when combining AI with manufacturing operations
• Emerging best practices for governance, context, and implementation
• Real-world examples demonstrating where AI is already delivering measurable value

One of the recurring themes is that successful AI initiatives begin long before selecting a large language model. They start with disciplined operational data, consistent business processes, and a manufacturing architecture capable of delivering trusted context—not simply more data.

Thank you to Julie Fraser and Tech-Clarity for leading this important research, along with the panel of MES and manufacturing technology experts who shared their perspectives. It's an excellent discussion for anyone evaluating how AI can create practical value on the plant floor.

If you're involved in manufacturing operations, digital transformation, or industrial AI, I encourage you to listen to the podcast and participate in the Tech-Clarity research survey. The more perspectives we gather from manufacturers, the stronger our industry's understanding of where AI is delivering real business outcomes.