The Chemical Connection: Experience and Wisdom Gained by Doing Business
It's Only Common Sense: Leveraging AI in Your Sales Strategy
Dan’s Biz Bookshelf: 'Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things'
What EMS Firms Want From Their Software—and What They Get
September 3, 2025 | Thiago Guimaraes, Global Electronics AssociationEstimated reading time: 1 minute
Last November, the Global Electronics Association [as IPC] surveyed EMS and OEM companies to better understand the software tools driving their operations and uncover trends in adoption, satisfaction, and challenges.
The survey assessed software tools across critical functions, including ERP, MES, PLM, QMS, LMS, quoting systems, and CRM. Participants shared insights on tool adoption, satisfaction, and selection priorities.
A total of 82 qualified individuals completed the survey. Respondents spanned EMS and OEM organizations across North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East/Africa, with company revenues ranging from under $5 million to over $1 billion.
This article offers a first look at findings from the 2024 EMS Software Survey, which explores how electronics manufacturers select, implement, and assess core business software. The full report, slated for release later this summer, will include detailed benchmarking data and perspectives on satisfaction, integration, and legacy system challenges.
Aging Infrastructure, Rising Expectations
In electronics manufacturing, digital tools often stick around long past their prime. Nearly 60% of ERP and QMS systems have been in place for over a decade, anchoring operations while complicating efforts to modernize.
MES tools show a similar age profile, but with lower adoption and less functionality—revealing a sector still wrestling with paper-based processes, disconnected systems, and limited visibility. As the industry sets its sights on AI, automation, and real-time traceability, the question isn’t just which systems to adopt, but how to navigate the opportunity cost of updating these well-entrenched legacy systems.
To continue reading this article, which originally appeared in the August 2025 issue of SMT007 Magazine, click here.
Share on:
Testimonial
"We’re proud to call I-Connect007 a trusted partner. Their innovative approach and industry insight made our podcast collaboration a success by connecting us with the right audience and delivering real results."
Julia McCaffrey - NCAB GroupSuggested Items
UHDI Fundamentals: UHDI Technology and Industry 4.0
09/03/2025 | Anaya Vardya, American Standard CircuitsUltra high density interconnect (UHDI) technology is rapidly transforming how smart systems are designed and deployed in the context of Industry 4.0. With its capacity to support highly miniaturized, high-performance, and densely packed electronics, UHDI is a critical enabler of the smart, connected, and automated industrial future. Here, I’ll explore the synergy between UHDI and Industry 4.0 technologies, highlighting applications, benefits, and future directions.
BAE Systems Delivers 1,000th THAAD Seeker for Ballistic Missile Defense Program
09/01/2025 | BAE SystemsBAE Systems recently delivered its 1,000th infrared seeker to Lockheed Martin for integration on the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) interceptor missile, achieving a major production milestone.
ION Storage Systems Launches 'Cornerstone'
08/12/2025 | PRNewswireION Storage Systems, Inc. (ION), a Maryland-based leader in next-generation solid-state battery technology, announces today that it has begun shipping Cornerstone, the first commercial generation of ION's solid-state battery technology, to leading consumer electronics companies.
Benchmark Completes Delivery of the Next Phase of High-Tech Surveillance Solutions for U.S. Customs and Border Protection Share
08/11/2025 | BUSINESS WIREBenchmark Electronics, Inc. proudly announces the successful completion of the delivery of 24 Mobile Vehicle Surveillance Systems with Radar (MVSS-R) for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Spirit AeroSystems Announces Definitive Agreement with CTRM for Acquisition of Facility in Subang, Malaysia
08/11/2025 | PRNewswireSpirit AeroSystems Holdings, Inc. announces a purchase agreement to sell its facility and businesses in Subang, Malaysia to Composites Technology Research Malaysia Sdn Bhd (CTRM) for $95,200,000, subject to customary adjustments.