Looking for ways to expand their reach, a pair of warehouse management system (WMS) providers has made moves that push them into software that manages the manufacturing process.

The two, 3M's HighJump and RedPrairie, are developing or buying their way into the manufacturing execution system (MES) arena.

HighJump, which has developed its own MES package, has extended its visibility further up the supply chain. "When you combine WMS and MES, you can now get cradle to grave traceability because you can trace raw materials and products as you receive them, as you consume them in manufacturing and as the finished goods pass through the distribution center door," says Chris Heim, HighJump's president.

Traceability is the ability to track raw materials, processes and people involved with product production. The ability to be able to provide a complete genealogy for a manufactured product is critical to manufacturers who then have to meet new compliance regulations in various industries.

RedPrairie has expanded its visibility scope through the purchase of Alta A/S, a provider of MES solutions for automotive suppliers. The product provides just-in-time, just-in-sequence part delivery within the manufacturing environment.

Martin Hiscox, a European business leader for non-American activities for RedPrairie, comments that the Alta acquisition builds on RedPrairie's core principles.

"RedPrairie prides itself on its ability to track product in the workflow-and Alta does this very well," he says. "The purchase, for us, was a logical jump off point."