"Closer integration with business systems, better integration with process analytical technologies, and increased use of models and workflow engines are the anticipated major changes that will shape batch management software products and their market size," according to John Blanchard, the principal author of ARC's "Batch Management Software Global Market Research Study."
The pharmaceutical and biotech, food and beverage, and chemical industries are the leading users of batch management software. Together they purchase more than two thirds of these systems worldwide. However, batch management software is also important in the mining and metals, pulp and paper, cement and glass, and many other industries. As manufacturers seek to expand their markets, their products packaging are becoming more diverse and complex. This plus the fluctuating cost and quality of raw materials are increasing the complexity of manufacturing processes needed to produce consistent quality products. Batch management software systems also play a key role in reducing the time for development of a new product and increase speed-to-market in the highly regulated pharmaceutical and biotech industries. Speed-to-market is becoming increasingly important in many other manufacturing industries as well. Another compelling reason to purchase a batch management software system is to comply with increasing government environmental, product quality, and labeling regulations.
Manufacturers in mature economies are modernizing their plants and are replacing custom batch solutions with off-the-shelf solutions. Additionally, manufacturers are optimizing the use of their equipment by consolidating production while attempting to maintain product flexibility. In emerging economies, there is continued growth in consumer goods, such as food, beverage, and personal care. The demand for quality and variety are also increasing rapidly. Many of these manufacturing operations are primarily manual operations with little to no automation infrastructure. These factors make it easier to justify the deployment of a new BMS system.
There are increased requirements for fast implementations and standardized solutions that can be rolled out across many facilities globally. Suppliers are responding with improved engineering tools, industry-specific solutions, and more user friendly operator screens. There is also increased demand for solutions that provide greater visibility into the manufacturing operations.
