October 2025 SMT007 Magazine: Upgrading Your Production Software
October 1, 2025 | I-Connect007 Editorial TeamEstimated reading time: Less than a minute
EMS companies need advanced software systems to thrive and compete. But these systems require significant effort to integrate and deploy. What is the reality, and how can we make it easier for everyone?
In the October 2025 issue of SMT007 Magazine, we investigate business operations software and how best to achieve the necessary integrations. It would seem that this is not a simple task.
Some MES and ERP software understand assembly of electronics, but many will require significant customization and API work to be fully functional. What tools are EMS companies using, what are they moving to, and what are the challenges to completing that move?
If you’re not integrating new operations software, then you’ve just finished or you’re getting ready to start. No matter where you are in the process, we share insights you’ll be able to apply immediately.
Testimonial
"Your magazines are a great platform for people to exchange knowledge. Thank you for the work that you do."
Simon Khesin - Schmoll MaschinenSuggested Items
FCT Leverages Flex Design and Total Build Solutions to Drive Innovation
10/22/2025 | Marcy LaRont, PCB007 MagazineWhat’s hot in flexible circuits right now? At PCB West, I spoke with Ben Savage, business development manager at Flexible Circuit Technologies (FCT), about their flex design services and end-markets where FCT sees the most flex activity. We also discussed the company’s focus on providing supply chain resiliency, as well as the constant search for new flex engineers. If you’re looking for a new opportunity in flexible circuits, FCT is hiring.
Waging the Battle for American PCB Reshoring
10/21/2025 | Marcy LaRont, PCB007 MagazineLegislation is shaping global trade, tariffs, and sustainability and environmental regulations. David Schild of PCBAA discusses exactly where the U.S. stands in its efforts to reshore printed circuit board manufacturing for critical industries. This conversation at PCB West occurred on the first day of the federal government’s shutdown, so it seemed especially timely to hear David's thoughts and insights on how the current political climate is affecting efforts to achieve the U.S. industry’s reshoring goals.
MES Software Tools Need Thoughtful Integration
10/21/2025 | Nolan Johnson, SMT007 MagazineThe Global Electronics Association recently published a survey report on the state of EMS production software. This project, led by Thiago Guimaraes, director of industry intelligence, connects the dots across the global electronics value chain to uncover practical insights that individual companies might not have seen on their own. In this interview, Thiago discusses the whys and hows of this report.
It’s Only Common Sense: If You’re Not Differentiated, You’re Dead
10/13/2025 | Dan Beaulieu -- Column: It's Only Common Sense“Good enough” is not good enough in business. Not anymore. “Good enough” is a death sentence in today’s market. Too many companies hide behind their ISO certificates, ITAR registrations, and shiny badges of compliance as if those are supposed to impress customers, but certifications are table stakes. Everyone has them. If you think that’s your differentiator, you’re already in the grave; you just don’t know it.
Catching Up With Mark Wood, Microart Services
10/08/2025 | Dan Beaulieu, D.B. Management GroupMicroart Services has been in business for over 40 years, growing from a design PCB layout company to a full-service EMS company focused on serving its customer base with standard and custom solutions. I’ve heard from my rep friends, their competitors, and even my Canadian PCB friends that Microart is “one of the best EMS companies in North America.” That’s why I decided to speak with CEO Mark Wood to discover the secret to his company's success.