The best manufacturing ERP software is an enterprise resource planning system that integrates areas such as production, inventory management, procurement, and logistics.
Using our review methodology, we’ve evaluated dozens of the top manufacturing ERP systems to help users find the right fit based on key criteria like total cost of ownership, functionality, ease of use, and customer support.
- Epicor Kinetic: Best Overall
- Infor CloudSuite Industrial: Best for MTO Manufacturers
- ECI M1: Best for Mixed-Mode Manufacturers
- Acumatica: Best for Project-Driven Manufacturing
- xTuple
- JobBOSS²: Best for Job Shops
- SYSPRO
- MRPeasy
- DELMIAWorks
- Aptean ERP WorkWise Edition
1 Epicor Kinetic - Best Overall
Why We Chose It: Epicor Kinetic is our top overall pick, earning a score of 8.8. That’s partially because it’s useful for businesses operating in make-to-order (MTO) and engineer-to-order (ETO) manufacturing environments. Kinetic caters to these manufacturers through a strong product configurator, providing customizable business rules to manage sub-assemblies.
We also gave the system an 8.8 due to its deep feature set. It supports complex manufacturing needs such as 2D/3D visual product configurations, real-time production monitoring, and advanced planning and scheduling. Additionally, Kinetic emphasizes strong supply chain management, including materials, sales, and order tracking.
Though Epicor Kinetic does not publicly disclose its pricing, it generally has a higher starting price than SMB ERP solutions like xTuple. We also found some occasional performance issues, namely an initial lag when loading dashboards and shop floor maps.
2 Infor CloudSuite Industrial - Best for MTO Manufacturers
Why We Chose It: Infor CloudSuite Industrial (formerly SyteLine) caught our attention with its flexible BOMs tool. It allows users to create or edit existing BOMs quickly, earning CloudSuite Industrial a score of 8.5. We also like that the system helps manage complex product configurations and project-based manufacturing, making it a strong fit for ETO, configure-to-order (CTO), and MTO environments.
The engineering board tool further enhances BOM capabilities by offering accurate scheduling and cost visibility. This is useful for manufacturing settings with frequent or significant product customizations. Additionally, CloudSuite Industrial allows for real-time adjustments, instantly reflecting changes in the production schedule or costs.
However, we noted some usability and performance issues with CloudSuite Industrial. The form layouts are complex, often requiring multiple clicks to navigate, and the Work Center application lags when loading data for shop floor employees.
3 ECI M1 - Best for Mixed-Mode Manufacturers
Why We Chose It: We found ECI M1 best for manufacturers handling make-to-stock (MTS), MTO, and everything in between. This includes job shops and discrete manufacturers. We gave M1 a score of 7.8 for its strong feature set, including multi-location inventory management. This provides instant visibility into order statuses, shipment tracking, and transfers between factories. However, ECI’s navigation can be complicated and requires a steep learning curve.
We found M1’s cost and labor tracking module detailed and efficient. For instance, it allows users to capture actual labor costs using bar-coded labor reporting and provides access to real-time job cost reports. This makes it effective for job shops and medium-sized manufacturers accommodating 50 to 200 employees.
While M1 can handle more complex production environments, it may not be ideal for larger manufacturers requiring heavy batch manufacturing or extensive recall management.
4 Acumatica - Best for Project-Driven Manufacturing
Why We Chose It: Acumatica is a good choice for project-driven manufacturing, like custom machinery for large construction projects. We like that it supports multiple methodologies, including MTO, ETO, and batch production. Acumatica also features role-based dashboards for project managers to monitor every aspect of their operations, including job costs and WIP.
The system’s open architecture integrates with various manufacturing tools and equipment, streamlining production processes. Its multi-entity support is particularly useful for manufacturers with global operations, consolidating financials across different locations. Acumatica also helps manage inventory in multiple warehouses, ensuring sufficient stock levels.
However, its pricing model can be costly. Acumatica charges based on how much you use the system rather than how many users you have. While this makes it scalable, as your usage grows, so can the costs.
5 xTuple
Why We Chose It: We picked xTuple for its competitive pricing and extensive functionality. These features include production planning and scheduling, multi-warehouse inventory, and reporting. Overall, xTuple best suits hybrid manufacturing models, including diverse processes like job shop, discrete, and MTS.
We found xTuple’s accounting module particularly effective. It automates the recording of journal entries for labor and material costs and sales. The system integrates sales and production, converting sales orders directly into work orders and facilitating inter-site order transfers. Moreover, xTuple enhances regulatory compliance through its incident management and reporting features.
However, xTuple is specifically designed with small to medium-sized businesses in mind. It may not fully meet the needs of larger manufacturers. It also lacks product matrices, making it less suitable for industries like apparel manufacturing.
6 JobBOSS² - Best for Job Shops
Why We Chose It: Ideal for custom and MTO manufacturing settings, JobBOSS² supports dynamic job shop operations. It offers modules for accounting, CRM, scheduling, inventory management, quality control, and job costing. With its logical database structure and cloud-based accessibility, the software caters to small to mid-scale job shop manufacturers with up to 100 employees.
We like that JobBOSS² includes detailed cost reports with historical data analysis, tracking profitability by job. Its “Designer Mode” feature is also worth mentioning. It allows customization of dashboards and reports with manufacturing-specific metrics like estimated vs. actual job costing and profit margins. This aids job shops in monitoring production and managing resources efficiently.
However, customer service is limited to weekday hours, which may not suit all businesses. Also, JobBOSS² does not support process manufacturing and lacks features like recipe management and batch tracking.
7 SYSPRO
Why We Chose It: SYSPRO made our list for its strong engineering change control and BOMs capabilities. These features are ideal for managing constant product innovation and design changes in discrete manufacturing environments. We also like SYSPRO’s extensive integration capabilities with AI and IoT technologies.
SYSPRO offers seamless integration with various factory machines and devices through its native drivers, enabling plug-and-play functionality. By combining machine data with job and stock code information, SYSPRO delivers detailed insights into costs and productivity metrics. These features are readily available and come pre-configured, allowing users to quickly access valuable analytics, receive alerts, and customize views.
We found SYSPRO’s feature set quite vast, so training employees may require a significant amount of time and resources. Additionally, crafting custom reports requires staff skilled in Crystal Reports or SSRS.
8 MRPeasy
Why We Chose It: MRPeasy is our top pick for small manufacturers with anywhere from 10 to 200 employees. The system helps these companies access advanced production planning tools without unnecessary complications. MRPeasy does this by intentionally excluding complex functionalities that might overwhelm smaller operations.
Key features include an interactive production calendar and Gantt charts, which offer intuitive visual aids for planning and scheduling. MRPeasy also enables dynamic rescheduling through a user-friendly drag-and-drop calendar interface. Overall, the system does a solid job managing shop floor operations, stock movements, and tracking batches and serial numbers.
We like that MRPeasy has built-in CRM tools and aids in estimating manufacturing costs and lead times, as well as generating quotes. However, we ran across some user reviews noting limited report customization tools and a steep learning curve for newcomers.
9 DELMIAWorks
Why We Chose It: We like DELMIAWorks (formerly IQMS EnterpriseIQ) because it integrates ERP and MES functionalities in one platform. This means it offers real-time monitoring and control over the entire production process, from raw materials to finished goods. Additionally, it assists in regulatory compliance through traceability and documentation features.
Due to its high level of customization and industry-specific capabilities, DELMIAWorks is highly adaptable. It caters to diverse industry needs, such as unlimited unit-of-measure conversions and flexible production methods (e.g., by length or weight). Additional tools like waste materials and dispatch list management ensure DELMIAWorks meets the unique requirements of different manufacturing sectors.
Although DELMIAWorks allows for some customization, the flexibility in modifying reports and the user interface could be better. Additionally, there are concerns about slow customer service, with some support responses merely directing users to help pages that do not fully resolve the issues.
10 Aptean ERP WorkWise Edition
Why We Chose It: Aptean ERP WorkWise Edition is our top pick for manufacturers requiring extensive customization. It accomplishes this through its role-based approach instead of a module-based system. This allows users to configure their interfaces and workflows according to their specific roles within the organization, streamlining operations and reducing the need to navigate multiple modules.
The software provides over 45 applications, encompassing advanced forecasting, capacity requirements planning, MRP, MPS, and SolidWorks CAD integration. The suite also offers shop floor control tools and financial applications, including costing, cash management, and payroll.
Finally, the software delivers flexible deployment options, available both on-premises and in the cloud. Its accessibility through native iOS and Android apps ensures that users can stay connected and productive regardless of location. However, the system offers fewer integrations than competitors like NetSuite, with less flexibility to connect WorkWise ERP to other specialized software manufacturers may need.
What Is Manufacturing ERP Software?
Manufacturing ERP software refers to any enterprise resource planning (ERP) system designed for the specific needs of the manufacturing industry. It combines back-end business applications for day-to-day operations with the tools meant to prevent machine downtime, improve product quality, and increase efficiency. For example, manufacturing software tracks raw materials against current stock levels so there is always enough on hand for production. It also keeps detailed records of in-progress work and sales orders.
Manufacturing ERP software for production planning and scheduling helps estimate the quantity and timing of material and labor inputs needed to complete jobs as efficiently as possible. This is typically used by manufacturers specializing in MTO/ETO, custom products, or limited runs.
Manufacturing ERP Software vs. MRP Software
When some businesses refer to manufacturing ERP software, they are actually referring to a manufacturing or material resource planning solution, shortened to MRP software. Despite similarities, MRP focuses on purchase planning, demand forecasting, and overall shop floor control.
In contrast, manufacturing ERP software covers those functions plus various applications like accounting, human resources, and payroll. The user-friendly tools available for managing the manufacturing process can be even more varied depending on the type of manufacturing software your business needs.
Unfortunately, businesses started to refer to any manufacturing products as “MRP,” which has blurred the lines between what the software truly is, whether it’s general manufacturing software or a completely separate ERP software.
Key Features to Look for in Manufacturing ERP
Our buyer trend report found over 70% of buyers listed purchase planning, demand forecasting, and master production scheduling as required features when seeking a software solution. Manufacturing ERP software buyers also look for functionalities related to general business processes, with 54% of buyers wanting purchase order capabilities and 60% looking for accounting and order management.
These features are frequently included in ERP packages:
- Financial Operations and Control: Streamlines financial processes, automates accounts, and simplifies tax management.
- Automated Payroll Management: Ensures accurate and timely payroll processing, including overtime tracking.
- CRM Integration: Manages customer relationships, optimizing interactions and order fulfillment.
- Advanced Predictive Analytics: Utilizes AI for market trend forecasting and strategic planning.
- Streamlined Supply Chain Operations: Includes procurement, warehousing, and logistics tools vital for supply chain efficiency.
- Flexible Modular Design: Offers customizable and scalable modules to provide end-to-end functionality.
- Integrated Human Resources Management: Manages labor, benefits, and training within the ERP system.
- Data Management Capabilities: Offers data handling, security, visualization, and analytics features enhanced with BI and AI technologies.
- AI and Machine Learning Enhancements: Incorporates AI for predictive maintenance, supply chain optimization, and process improvements.
- Asset Management and Tracking: Tracks and manages key business assets, including equipment and vehicle fleets.
Manufacturing-Focused Features
- Enhanced Inventory and Project Oversight: Provides real-time project management with tracking of materials and products, integrating technologies like RFID.
- Optimized Production Planning: Aids in efficient production planning and scheduling, considering various operational constraints.
- Customized Manufacturing Workflows: Tailored workflows for critical manufacturing processes like quality management and equipment maintenance.
- Real-Time Shop Floor Management: Manages shop floor activities, tracking labor, material usage, and production metrics.
- Automated Manufacturing Data Collection: Collects data from machines and sensors, providing real-time operational insights.
- Dynamic Inventory Management: Features for inventory optimization, including dynamic reordering and material requirements planning.
- Product Lifecycle Management: Manages product data throughout its lifecycle, including revisions and compliance.
- Quality Control Systems: Tools for managing quality, including process control, audit management, and compliance tracking.
- Integration with IIoT and Smart Factory Technologies: Connects with IoT devices and smart technologies for enhanced manufacturing capabilities.
How an ERP System Benefits Manufacturers
Manufacturing ERP systems offer many advantages tailored to meet the specific needs of businesses. These systems not only streamline operations but also provide critical insights and efficiencies across various aspects of manufacturing. Here’s a closer look at the key benefits:
- Operational Optimization: These systems integrate resource planning, offering a view of resources, employees, and processes. This integration helps identify and resolve potential bottlenecks, improving overall operational efficiency.
- Informed Decision-making: Manufacturing ERP systems are equipped with forecasting tools that enable businesses to make data-driven decisions. They help analyze market trends and balance production with demand, ensuring financial stability.
- Inventory Management: ERPs simplify inventory management, automating replenishment processes and providing real-time tracking. This ensures efficient resource management and reduces the risk of overstocking or stockouts.
- Supply Chain Transparency: ERP systems enhance supply chain visibility by connecting various elements, including warehouses and suppliers. This leads to more efficient material management and reduced overhead costs.
- Warehouse Efficiency: Time management in warehouses is crucial, and ERP systems contribute to this by automating processes like stock replenishment and label printing. This automation reduces time wastage and increases productivity.
- Process Automation: ERP systems enhance operational efficiency by automating routine tasks like report generation and resource allocation.
- Compliance and Quality Control: ERP systems facilitate compliance with various regulations through automated documentation and quality assurance processes. This ensures that businesses adhere to legal standards.
- Data Integration and Analytics: These systems consolidate diverse business data, providing a unified platform for analysis.
What Does Manufacturing ERP Software Cost?
A low-cost manufacturing ERP software like MRPEasy starts around $49 per user monthly. It often includes production planning and scheduling modules, basic inventory management features, and shop floor tracking. The solution may not provide accounting functionality but can integrate with popular programs such as QuickBooks Online and Xero.
The price of manufacturing software varies greatly depending on the functionalities you need, the size of your business, and the industry you’re in. Key factors that affect price include:
- Module additions
- Training requirements
- Initial implementation
- Number of total users
- Ongoing support and maintenance
A more expensive software would be a full ERP solution built exclusively for manufacturers. These solutions will vary widely depending on the deployment:
- On-premise software (locally installed): Will have large upfront licensing, implementation, and training fees. These solutions can start at $25,000 upfront. Cloud-based options (SaaS): These typically have lower upfront fees, as the software cost is spread out over the course of ownership as an ongoing charge. These solutions may start at $10,000 upfront with $10,000/year for service and support afterward.
How To Choose the Best Manufacturing ERP
The best manufacturing software will automate your operations by combining inventory management, production planning, shop floor control, and job costing modules.
Given how broad the term is, many types of software are considered manufacturing programs:
- Fully integrated options that provide everything needed to manage your business (commonly referred to as ERP software, but sometimes as MRP software).
- Application-specific tools such as manufacturing execution systems (MES) or quality management software (QMS).
- Manufacturing management software to streamline your production scheduling; requires integration with other accounting or inventory management tools.
Types of Specialized Manufacturing Software
- Additive manufacturing software: Enables successful 3D printing jobs by preparing all work, optimizing designs, and minimizing design to manufacturing lead times.
- Chemical manufacturing software: Assists in tracking and reporting compliance with regulatory agencies, including the FDA, EPA, DEA, ATF, and FSIS. Features recipe management, quality assurance, inventory storage planning, expiration tracking, and recall management.
- Discrete manufacturing software: Manages the production and assembly of distinct individual products that can be counted.
- Process manufacturing software: Combines your machines, tools, and resources to maximize efficiencies in your formulas and recipes. Common in the food/beverage, chemical, and pharmaceutical industries.
Types of Industry-Specific Manufacturing Software
These types of manufacturing software are developed with a more narrow focus. They will have less mass appeal and be more fine-tuned to the needs of the industry.
- Apparel and textile
- Aerospace
- Cosmetics
- Food and beverage
- Furniture
- Jewelry
- Job shops and machine shops
- Medical devices
- Pharmaceuticals
Each industry has specific needs to address. For instance, medical device distributors must meet ISO 13485 standards, meaning they need software to cover regulatory compliance and product traceability. And apparel manufacturers won’t have those same standards and instead will want eCommerce functionality. By looking at industry-specific solutions, you can narrow down your search.
Additionally, small business manufacturing is designed for smaller companies and generally includes basic features at a lower price point.
Manufacturing Trends
Manufacturing ERP developers always look for new ways to incorporate evolving tech into software solutions.
- 3D Printing: Additive manufacturing and new 3D printing technologies allow manufacturers to build parts and products once deemed too difficult or impossible to make. As a result, the additive manufacturing market value is projected to reach $94.18 billion by 2032 according to a study by Reports and Data.
- Cloud Hosting: Cloud-based software allows users to see real-time data, like customer details and order information, anywhere and anytime. Users can select cloud manufacturing software accessible on any computer connected to the Internet or through mobile apps on smartphones and tablets. These options typically offer lower upfront costs via subscription-based SaaS pricing.
- Growing Technology Use: The use of specialized technology in the manufacturing industry has been growing steadily. Along with 3D printing, technological advancements like robotics, augmented/virtual reality R&D, and more are pushing the limits of manufacturing. According to CB Insights’ article, The Future of the Factory, “high labor costs are driving demand for robotics and automation.” It’s estimated that robotics could reduce labor costs by 16% globally by 2025.
FAQ
What is an ERP system in manufacturing?
An ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system in manufacturing is a software platform that integrates various business processes, such as inventory management, supply chain operations, financials, and customer relations, to streamline operations and improve efficiency in manufacturing businesses.
Do ERP systems work directly with manufacturing machines?
Yes, some ERP systems can directly connect to manufacturing equipment to monitor their status, performance, and efficiency in real-time. The Internet of Things (IoT) allows physical devices like equipment, sensors, and actuators to connect to the internet and each other. Manufacturing ERP software can then collect data directly from these machines on the production floor.
ERP has expanded beyond manufacturing into what role?
Beyond manufacturing, ERP has expanded into roles like service management, project management, customer relationship management (CRM), and human resources, integrating various business functions across different industries.
What is the best ERP system for manufacturing?
The best ERP system for manufacturing varies based on specific business needs, size, and industry. Popular choices include SAP ERP, Oracle NetSuite, and Microsoft Dynamics 365, known for their rich feature sets and scalability.
Is QuickBooks a manufacturing software?
QuickBooks Enterprise is an alternative to ERP and is a common solution for smaller manufacturing businesses and wholesalers. However, many manufacturing companies outgrow QuickBooks, finding they need support beyond core accounting, including:
- Advanced material requirements planning
- Quality control
- Production management
- Bill of materials
