An MES is a level of a multi-layer process-oriented production management system. It distinguishes itself from similarly efficient systems for production planning, i.e. ERP systems (Enterprise Resource Planning) by direct connection to the distributed systems of process automation. The MES allows production processes to be managed and controlled in real time. This includes conventional data acquisition and data preparation such as production data acquisition (PDA), machine data acquisition (MDA) and personnel data acquisition, as well as all other processes immediately influencing the production process.