At first glance, the functions of a manufacturing execution system (MES) are clear: detailed planning and control, information management, quality management, and other management tasks are supported by the system in a structured manner. But does successful integration really deliver everything the system promises? After go-live, a new phase begins—the actual work. It is only in operational interaction with other IT systems that it becomes clear how heavily the MES relies on external data flows and workflows. This raises the crucial question: What can an MES really do? And how do we remain adaptable in the long term? o The key lies in company-wide awareness of IT Only companies that systematically address this task will be able to fully master their own processes and exploit their innovative strength.

• MES is not an isolated system, but rather heavily dependent on data flows and workflows from adjacent IT systems.
• The real work begins after go-live – the complexity of system networking becomes apparent during operation.
• Long-term adaptability requires a clear understanding of the IT landscape and its interactions.
• Mastering data is essential for companies to remain competitive in the future.
• Innovative capacity arises when companies actively shape their processes and understand their data as a central element of value creation.