The quality management function within an MES ensures that process and product quality are not only verified but also fully documented and traceable.
According to VDI 5600, this function is one of the core MES tasks – linking shopfloor data with quality assurance and continuous improvement processes.
MES quality management provides real-time visibility into all quality-related data across machines, orders, and materials.
It helps manufacturers identify deviations early, reduce scrap and rework, and comply with industry and customer-specific quality standards.
The MES acts as the digital backbone of quality assurance by connecting inspection results, process data, and traceability information within one consistent system.
Inspection planning and order management – defining test characteristics, frequencies, and sampling strategies
Real-time quality data collection – capturing measured values directly from sensors, inspection devices, or operator input
Statistical Process Control (SPC) – continuously monitoring process stability using control charts and defined tolerances
Deviation and defect management – triggering alerts and workflows automatically when limits are exceeded
Rework, complaint, and scrap management – integrating nonconformance handling with order and material data for accurate root-cause analysis
Traceability and genealogy – linking serial numbers, batches, tools, and process parameters for full transparency
Reduced scrap and rework through early detection of deviations
Lower audit effort due to centralized, digital quality documentation
Faster root-cause analysis by correlating process and inspection data
Improved compliance with ISO 9001, IATF 16949, and other industry standards
Higher customer satisfaction through consistent, verifiable quality performance
An automotive supplier integrates quality data collection directly into its MES.
Inspection results, alarms, and process data are automatically linked to production orders and batches.
Result: 25 % fewer rejects, full traceability within minutes, and significantly reduced audit preparation time.
MES quality management interacts closely with other functional areas:
Receives machine and operational data (MDE/BDE) for process evaluation
Links with material management for batch and component traceability
Exchanges information with scheduling and personnel management
Provides KPIs and trend analyses to information management dashboards
This creates a closed improvement loop—from deviation detection to corrective action.
MES quality management ensures that production quality is measurable, traceable, and continuously improved.
By integrating process, material, and order data, it builds the foundation for zero-defect manufacturing and operational excellence.