When manufacturers start digitising their additive workflows, one of the first questions they ask is:

On the surface, both promise to streamline operations, track production, and improve efficiency. But in reality, the differences are huge - and they directly impact how quickly you see ROI, how well your teams adopt the system, and how effectively you scale.

Here’s what sets Authentise Flows apart from generic MES platforms.

1. Built for Additive, Not Adapted to It

   
   

Generic MES systems are built with traditional manufacturing in mind - assembly lines, repetitive tasks, predictable processes. Additive manufacturing (AM) doesn’t work that way.

• Complex, data-rich workflows: AM processes generate large amounts of machine, sensor, and material data. Generic MES isn’t built to capture and contextualise this.

• High variability: Every part can be different, requiring flexible routing and agile decision-making. Generic MES struggles here.

Authentise Flows is purpose-built for AM. It integrates with additive machines, captures data natively, and adapts to the unique variability of 3D printing - without endless customisation.

2. Automation That Cuts Lead Times

   
   

Generic MES platforms often require manual input at every step: scheduling, updating job status, even logging data. That slows down the workflow.

Authentise Flows automates these steps:

• Pulls data directly from machines and sensors

• Updates production status automatically

• Flags bottlenecks and creates alerts

The result? Fewer manual tasks, faster decisions, and measurable lead time reductions.

3. Compliance and Traceability, Made Easy

   
   

If you’re in aerospace, defence, or medical manufacturing, you know compliance is non-negotiable. Generic MES solutions weren’t designed with these regulatory needs in mind.

Authentise Flows, on the other hand:

• Records full digital traceability of every part and process

• Generates compliance reports automatically

• Reduces the risk of audit failures or costly rework

This isn’t an add-on - it’s baked into the system.

4. Seamless Data Thread Across the Supply Chain

   
   

Generic MES keeps data siloed within production. That’s fine if you’re managing a single factory floor. But additive rarely works in isolation - it’s part of a broader supply chain.

Authentise Flows connects the digital thread:

• Links design, planning, production, and post-processing

• Shares data with suppliers and customers securely

• Enables true collaboration across distributed networks

That means better decisions, fewer delays, and more reliable outcomes.

5. Faster, Easier Adoption

   
   

Generic MES rollouts can take months (or even years) of painful customisation, only to end up with a clunky system that users resist.

Authentise Flows is designed for rapid deployment and intuitive use:

• Pre-configured for AM workflows

• Easy integration with existing tools (CAD, PLM, ERP)

• Built to scale as your operation grows

That means you see ROI sooner - and your team actually uses the system.

Generic MES platforms have their place in traditional manufacturing, but they weren’t built for the realities of additive.

Authentise Flows is different: It’s designed from the ground up for AM, automates manual work, ensures compliance, and extends the digital thread beyond the factory floor.

👉 If you’re serious about scaling additive, the choice is clear. Book a demo of Authentise Flows today.