Next Plus offers multiple integration methods to connect with external enterprise systems. This article explains the available integration approaches and provides examples of how they can be implemented.
Integration Methods
1. Integration Builder (Outbound: Next Plus → External System)
The Integration Builder is a built-in feature that enables Next Plus MES to report manufacturing data to external ERP systems in real-time. It's designed for outbound integration where Next Plus needs to notify external systems about manufacturing events.
Key features:
No coding required - configure directly in the Next Plus UI
Real-time event reporting
Supports serialization, component consumption, and operation reporting
Works with any HTTP endpoint capable of receiving JSON payloads
This approach is ideal when you need to report manufacturing activities from Next Plus to your ERP system. For detailed configuration and payload information, see our Integration Builder documentation.
2. REST API (Inbound: External System → Next Plus)
For inbound integration (where external systems need to create or update data in Next Plus), you can use the Next Plus REST API. This approach is ideal for scenarios like:
Creating work orders in Next Plus from your ERP system
Importing parts and BOMs from PLM systems
Updating statuses or adding information to existing records
The API can be accessed directly or via integration platforms like Zapier, PowerApps, Make (formerly Integromat), Engini, or IConduct.
Example Use Cases
Example 1: Bidirectional ERP Integration
A complete ERP integration typically requires communication in both directions:
From ERP to Next Plus (Inbound using REST API):
ERP creates a production order
Integration platform or custom code calls the Next Plus API
Work order is created in Next Plus with all required data
From Next Plus to ERP (Outbound using Integration Builder):
Operators process the work order in Next Plus
Integration Builder automatically sends real-time updates to the ERP
ERP receives serial assignments, component consumption, and completed operations
This bidirectional approach ensures systems remain synchronized and provides a complete view of manufacturing activities.
Example 2: PLM Integration for BOM and Parts Management
From PLM to Next Plus (Inbound using REST API):
Engineering updates designs or BOMs in the PLM system
Platforms like PowerApps or Make detect the change
Integration calls the Next Plus API to update parts or BOM information
Production always has the latest engineering data
Sync Operation Results Back (Optional using Integration Builder):
Configure the Operation Integration in Integration Builder
As operations are performed in Next Plus, results are sent to your PLM
Engineering can see real-world manufacturing data to inform design decisions
For Integration Builder:
Navigate to Settings > Integrations > Integration Builder in Next Plus
Configure your integration endpoints
See our detailed documentation for configuration steps
For REST API integration:
Review our API documentation
Select an integration platform if needed (Zapier, PowerApps, etc.)
Set up authentication and create your integration flows
Conclusion
By leveraging both the Integration Builder and REST API capabilities, you can create comprehensive integrations between Next Plus and your enterprise systems. This dual approach ensures data flows seamlessly in both directions, improving efficiency and reducing manual work across your manufacturing operations.