BAKERY TECHNOLOGY
However, the benefits of ERP systems can go much further. For example, given the current cost-of-living crisis that is being felt in many countries today, there are only so many rising costs that bakeries can pass on to their customers – this means that there is now a greater need than ever before to improve accuracy and reduce waste. An ERP software platform has a big role to play in this, helping to cut down on inventory inefficiencies by enabling ingredients to be ordered only when needed and in good time. Process control solutions: Process control technologies work hand-in-hand with ERP systems to help ensure compliance.
Once integrated
process control technology is able to monitor and control the manufacturing process. Sensors are able to measure and adjust the conditions under which a specific product is made. It can send this data to other systems where it can be analysed and turned into actionable information which can be used to help plan more efficient workflows and audit activity. Data relating to each batch produced can be stored and used for compliance and audit purposes. Process control technology can help bakeries pinpoint exactly where each ingredient has come from to easily validate that it meets quality specifications and can be certified as, say, vegan or gluten-free. Additionally, these tools can be used to identify which stock needs to be used first– such as short shelf-life ingredients – helping to reduce waste and costs.
“The adoption of ERP software can help pave the way for more accurate data tracking and management, making compliance easier to prove”
(ERP) systems are usually developed to fit the bespoke needs of each company. An ERP platform will comprise a series of modules which relate to each business area – including finance/accounting, supply chain management, human resources,
manufacturing and logistics, and
This level of oversight often results in improved productivity too and can, of course, help to highlight potential production problems early, allowing remedial action to be taken before productivity is affected. Robotics and automation technology: The main way that robotics and automation can support compliance is through improved accuracy. They can, for example, be used to precisely weigh and dispense ingredients, and are also then able to cut the finished product to an exact size. An automated cutter can reduce the likelihood of human error and potential injury, resulting in greater product consistency and reduced
product customer
relationship management – and each element can be rolled out across the business as needed. The adoption of ERP software can help pave the way for more accurate data tracking and management, making compliance easier to prove. The system can also ensure that precise recipes are met with every batch, helping to maintain batch consistency and reduce waste.
bakeryproduction.co.uk waste. Staff can be
relocated to higher value business areas, where their roles are more varied and satisfying.
Robotics and automation technologies will also be equipped with data collection systems. So, at the same time as they are helping drive the manufacturing process itself and removing onerous or heavy tasks away from people, they are also feeding the business with operational data. Once again, analysis of this data can provide business intelligence which can be turned into process improvements as well as better compliance practices.
Kennedy’s Bakery Production February/March 2023 19
within an organisation,
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