The Manufacturers Guide to Buying Software

Tired of spreadsheets and outdated ERPs? This guide, designed for QA and Operations leaders, breaks down software options, compliance essentials, and rollout best practices.

The cover of Elevated Signals' buyers guide

What’s inside the guide

MES vs. ERP

Compare strengths, gaps, and costs to see which system fits regulated manufacturing.

QA & Compliance Must-Haves

Learn the critical features such as electronic batch records, audit trails, and traceability needed to ensure compliance.

ROI & Rollout Guide

A step-by-step matrix and checklist to move from spreadsheets to a live system.

Choosing the Right Manufacturing Software

This guide is built for manufacturers that have outgrown spreadsheets, paper, or outdated ERPs and need clarity on what comes next. It explains the hidden costs of inefficiency, compliance risks, and limited visibility, then breaks down the main categories of manufacturing software (MES, QMS, ERP, and SCM) in plain language.

Practical Advice on vendors, compliance & more

You’ll also find practical advice on evaluating vendors, identifying non-negotiable features in regulated industries, and planning a smooth rollout. Plus, learn how to avoid common pitfalls that delay projects or increase costs.