23 Best ERP Alternatives Reviewed In 2024
Best ERP Alternatives Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 23 tools reviewed.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
ERP systems integrate various business processes, such as finance, HR, and supply chain, into a single platform, providing improved efficiency and data accuracy. However, finding the right solution for your team may require you to sift through several alternative solutions.
With my combined experience in ERP software and financial operations, I tested and compared several ERP solutions to help teams find the top tools on the market. By compiling my results into in-depth reviews, I hope to guide you towards your next software that will effectively drive business growth and manage operations.
What is an ERP?
Enterprise resource planning (ERP) software is a type of software that integrates various business processes and functions into a single system. With an ERP, companies can manage finance, human resources, supply chain, and other core business activities all from one central location, boosting productivity and reducing costs.
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Why Look for a ERP Alternative
As your business grows, it’s likely that you’ll go through several ERP solutions and at one point or another, end up looking for an alternative software. Here are some common reasons why you may be looking for an alternate solution:
- Cost: Depending on your chosen ERP, these software types can get rather expensive, especially if you opt into add-ons. An ERP alternative might have lower costs compared to your current option.
- Complexity: Some ERPs require extensive training in order to use all of their functionalities. If you’re a SMB or rather don’t require all of the advanced features included in your ERP, an alternative might be better.
- Flexibility: Does your current ERP fit your business needs? If not, you might be searching for an ERP alternative.
- Scalability: Your software should always be able to scale with your business. When it doesn’t, it could be time to search for an alternative.
- Customization: Limited customization options can hinder business processes, but an ERP alternative with enhanced customization can help make your business stand out and become memorable.
Alternative ERPs can provide more affordable, user-friendly, and adaptable solutions that better meet specific business needs and growth requirements. By considering a range of options, you can find a system that offers improved flexibility, scalability, and efficiency, ultimately enhancing your company's overall performance and growth.
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Best ERP Alternatives Summary
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| SAP Business One | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Epicor | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Acumatica | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Workday | Pricing upon request. | Website |
| QuickBooks Enterprise | From $106.75/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central | From $110/user/month (billed annually, with a min of 5 seats) + a $4500 implementation fee | Website |
| NEX | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Cin7 | From $349/month | Website |
| Infor | Pricing upon request | Website |
| NetSuite | Pricing upon request | Website |
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Compare SoftwareBest ERP Alternatives Reviews
In this section, I’ll provide an in-depth analysis and overview of each ERP alternative. I’ll walk you through the pros and cons of each tool, their features, and their best use cases.
SAP Business One is an affordable ERP solution designed to help small and midsized businesses manage various aspects of their operations, including accounting, financials, purchasing, inventory, sales, and customer relationships.
Why I chose SAP Business One: SAP Business One offers a strong set of features tailored specifically for small and midsized businesses. Its ability to integrate various business functions into a single platform and real-time analytics features makes it a standout alternative for companies looking to streamline their operations and improve efficiency.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include on-premise or cloud deployment, integrated business intelligence, quick deployment, and real-time reporting and analytics.
Integrations include SAP HANA, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Outlook, Shopify, Magento, WooCommerce, QuickBooks, Salesforce, HubSpot, and Mailchimp.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Flexible deployment options
- Real-time analytics and reporting
- Comprehensive business management features
Cons:
- Limited to small and midsized businesses
- May require customization for specific needs
Epicor offers industry-specific ERP solutions tailored to sectors like manufacturing, distribution, retail, and services. It’s best for businesses seeking specialized ERP functionalities that cater to their unique industry requirements.
Why I chose Epicor: Epicor provides tailored features and functionalities designed to meet the unique needs of various industries such as manufacturing, distribution, retail, and services. Its deep industry expertise and customizable modules ensure that businesses can optimize their processes, improve efficiency, and gain a competitive edge in their respective markets.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include modules for manufacturing execution, supply chain management, financial management, and human capital management.
Integrations include Salesforce, Adobe Commerce (Magento 2.X), BigCommerce, Microsoft Dynamics 365, NetSuite, Infor, HubSpot, Sage, Shopify, and Distribution One.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong integration capabilities
- Real-time data insights
- Industry-specific modules
Cons:
- Potential ongoing maintenance expenses
- Complex implementation process
Acumatica is a cloud ERP solution designed to provide real-time insights and advanced business management capabilities. It’s best for businesses seeking a flexible, scalable ERP system that offers real-time data and analytics.
Why I chose Acumatica: Acumatica offers a strong cloud-based architecture and real-time insights, which are vital for dynamic business environments. Its flexible pricing model and advanced feature set make it a standout choice for businesses looking to scale efficiently.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include financial management, project accounting, CRM, industry-specific solutions, real-time data capabilities, and flexible licensing options.
Integrations include Amazon, BigCommerce, Shopify, Microsoft Dynamics 365, Salesforce, HubSpot, Avalara, Docusign, Adobe Sign, and Magento.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive feature set
- Flexible, usage-based pricing
- Real-time data and analytics
Cons:
- Limited offline capabilities
- Complexity in setup
Workday
Best for finance and HR management with continuous recalibration
Workday is cloud-based enterprise software that offers financial and human capital management solutions. Due to its advanced integration capabilities and real-time insights, it’s best for large companies with over 2,000 employees and complex operations across multiple regions or entities.
Why I chose Workday: Workday combines finance and HR functionalities into a single platform, which provides a unified solution for complex business needs. Judging by its extensive integration options and AI-driven tools, it stands out as a strong ERP alternative, particularly for large enterprises looking to streamline and optimize their operations.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include modern cloud-based interface and extensive pre-built integrations with third-party business tools.
Integrations include Salesforce, Microsoft Azure, ServiceNow, Slack, Adobe Sign, Google Workspace, Okta, Docusign, IBM, and SAP.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Unified finance and HR functionalities
- Advanced reporting and analytics capabilities
- Comprehensive integration with over 600 third-party tools
Cons:
- Persistent notifications
- No back button on pages
QuickBooks Enterprise is an advanced accounting software designed to meet the needs of growing businesses. It’s best known for its advanced inventory and pricing features, making it ideal for businesses that require detailed inventory management and flexible pricing options.
Why I chose QuickBooks Enterprise: QuickBooks Enterprise offers strong inventory and pricing tools that are essential for businesses with complex inventory needs. Its ability to handle large volumes of data and provide detailed reports makes it a valuable ERP solutions for businesses of all sizes.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include mobile barcode scanning, automated payment reminders, and customizable reporting tools.
Integrations include Salesforce, Shopify, Square, PayPal, Bill.com, TSheets, Fishbowl, Method CRM, SOS Inventory, and Webgility.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Cloud hosting for remote access
- Customizable reporting tools
- Advanced inventory management
Cons:
- Limited advanced features compared to full ERP systems
- Complexity and steep learning curve for new users
Best for seamless integration with Microsoft 365
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central is designed for small to medium-sized businesses. It integrates seamlessly with Microsoft 365, providing a unified platform for managing finances, operations, sales, and customer service.
Why I chose Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central: Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central integrates seamlessly with the rest of the Microsoft 365 ecosystem, which allows businesses to leverage familiar tools like Outlook, Excel, and Teams within their ERP. Additionally, its cloud-based nature ensures accessibility, security, and regular updates, enhancing overall efficiency and productivity.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include financial management, supply chain management, project management, and customer relationship management.
Integrations include Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Teams, Microsoft Power BI, Microsoft SharePoint, Microsoft OneDrive, Microsoft Azure, LinkedIn, Adobe Sign, and Shopify.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Advanced analytics and reporting tools
- Comprehensive financial and operational management
- Seamless integration with Microsoft 365
Cons:
- Complexity in customization
- Vendor lock-in
NEX is a cloud-based ERP that integrates CRM, order management, inventory management, and more into a unified platform. Due to its advanced module offerings and ease of integration, it’s best for small to medium-sized businesses looking to streamline operations and improve efficiency.
Why I chose NEX: NEX centralizes business operations into one platform, making it easier to manage diverse business functions. In my opinion, its advanced inventory management and extensive integration capabilities make it a strong contender for businesses aiming to improve operational efficiency and scalability.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include inventory management, order management, point of sale system, customer relationship management, supplier management, sales analytics, purchase order management, barcode scanning, multi-store management, and customizable reporting.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Shopify, Power BI, SAP, Oracle, Shipcaddie, Salesforce, Microsoft Office 365, Docusign, and Magento.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Automation of routine tasks
- Real-time inventory management
- Comprehensive integration with multiple business tools
Cons:
- Limited offline capabilities
- Complex initial setup
Cin7 is a cloud-based inventory and order management software designed for multi-channel retail and wholesale businesses. It’s best for businesses looking to streamline inventory management and enhance multi-channel sales capabilities due to its advanced integration features and automation tools.
Why I chose Cin7: Cin7 offers strong inventory and order management functionalities that are vital for multi-channel businesses. In my opinion, its extensive integration capabilities and automation features make it a strong contender for businesses aiming to improve operational efficiency and scalability.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include inventory management, order management, point of sale system, warehouse management, e-commerce integration, multi-channel sales, supplier management, production management, customer relationship management, and customizable reporting.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Shopify, Power BI, SAP, Oracle, Shipcaddie, Salesforce, Microsoft Office 365, Docusign, and Magento.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Supports multi-channel sales
- Automates inventory management
- Integrates with over 700 apps
Cons:
- Occasional bugs in system updates
- Initial setup can be complex
Infor is an advanced ERP solution tailored to various industries, offering cloud capabilities to enhance business operations. It’s best for industry-specific ERP with cloud capabilities due to its ability to deliver real-time visibility, automate complex processes, and increase collaboration across the business ecosystem.
Why I chose Infor: Infor provides users with industry-specific solutions and cloud capabilities. It stands out as a good ERP alternative because it combines deep industry expertise with advanced cloud technology, ensuring businesses can adapt and thrive in a digital environment.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include finance and accounting, supply chain management, planning and scheduling, project management, and customer and order management.
Integrations include Amazon Web Services (AWS), Infor OS, Infor Birst, Infor NEXus, and SunSystems.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time visibility
- Cloud-based capabilities
- Industry-specific solutions
Cons:
- May require extensive customization
- Potential complexity in implementation
NetSuite
Best for global business management with multi-currency support
NetSuite is an advanced cloud-based ERP solution designed to manage global business operations. It’s particularly well-suited for businesses that require multi-currency support and global financial management.
Why I chose NetSuite: NetSuite stands out due to its extensive multi-currency support, which is essential for companies operating in multiple countries. Its ability to handle complex financial consolidations and tax management makes it a strong contender in the ERP market, especially for businesses requiring global financing assistance.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include financial management, inventory management, order management, and supply chain management.
Integrations include Salesforce, Shopify, Magento, WooCommerce, QuickBooks, HubSpot, Zendesk, PayPal, Stripe, and Google Workspace.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time visibility and reporting
- Extensive multi-currency support
- Customization complexity
Cons:
- Complex setup and implementation process
- Higher starting price compared to some alternatives
Other ERP Alternatives
Below is a list of additional ERP alternatives that I shortlisted. While they didn’t make the top 10, they’re still valuable and worth further research.
- Sage Intacct
Best for financial and operations management
- MRPeasy
Best for small manufacturers needing precise, on-time deliveries
- Cube
Best for financial planning and analysis
- Float
Best for managing team expenses efficiently
- Fulcrum
Best for job shop and make-to-order manufacturers
- TallyPrime
Best for small businesses needing robust accounting
- SYSPRO
Best for manufacturing and operational efficiency
- IFS Cloud
Best for asset-intensive industries
- XoroERP
Best for wholesale and distribution management
- HoneyBook
Best for creative professionals managing projects and clients
- SAP S/4HANA Cloud
Best for large enterprises needing comprehensive solutions
- Odoo
Best for customizable business applications
- LynxERP
Best for manufacturing and distribution sectors
Related ERP Software Reviews
If you still haven't found what you're looking for here, check out these tools closely related to ERP software that we've tested and evaluated.
- Accounting Software
- POS Systems
- Billing Software
- Payroll Services
- Merchant Account Services
- Inventory Management Software
ERP Alternatives Selection Criteria
The criteria for choosing an ERP alternative software should directly address buyer needs and common pain points, ensuring that the software serves its intended purpose effectively. As an expert who has personally tried and researched these tools, here are the requirements I use when evaluating software:
Core Functionality: 25% of total weighting score
- Financial management
- Inventory management
- Order processing
- Customer relationship management
- Human resources management
Additional Standout Features: 25% of total weighting score
- Integration with third-party applications
- Advanced analytics and reporting capabilities
- Customizable dashboards
- Mobile accessibility
- AI-driven automation
Usability: 10% of total weighting score
- Intuitive user interface
- Drag-and-drop functionality
- Easy navigation
- Customizable user settings
- Role-based access control
Onboarding: 10% of total weighting score
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Pre-built templates
- Chatbots for instant support
- Webinars for in-depth training
Customer Support: 10% of total weighting score
- 24/7 support availability
- Multiple support channels (phone, email, chat)
- Dedicated account managers
- Comprehensive knowledge base
- Fast response times
Value For Money: 10% of total weighting score
- Competitive pricing
- Flexible subscription plans
- Transparent pricing structure
- Discounts for long-term commitments
- Free trial periods
Customer Reviews: 10% of total weighting score
- Overall satisfaction ratings
- Feedback on ease of use
- Comments on customer support quality
- Reviews on feature effectiveness
- Testimonials on ROI and value
Ultimately, a well-chosen ERP alternative can enhance efficiency, streamline operations, and drive overall success. By carefully assessing these criteria, businesses can identify solutions that not only meet their current needs but also support future growth and innovation.
Key Features of ERP Alternatives
Here are some key features of ERP that your alternative software should be able to replicate or improve upon in order to be a good fit.
- Integration: ERP software alternatives combine various business processes into a single, unified system, ensuring seamless data flow and communication across different departments. This consolidation eliminates data silos and enhances operational efficiency.
- Automation: These systems reduce manual tasks through automated workflows, streamlining operations and minimizing the risk of human error. Automation saves time and allows employees to focus on more strategic activities.
- Data Analysis: ERP alternatives provide robust tools for analyzing business data, enabling companies to make informed decisions based on accurate and comprehensive insights. This capability supports strategic planning and performance improvement.
- Real-Time Reporting: By offering up-to-date reports on business performance, ERP systems ensure that stakeholders have immediate access to critical information.
- Scalability: ERP solutions are designed to adapt to the growth of your business, accommodating increasing data volumes and expanding operations without compromising performance.
- Customization: These systems allow for tailored solutions to meet specific organizational needs, providing flexibility to adjust functionalities according to unique business processes.
- User Access Control: Managing user permissions and access levels is a key feature of ERP software, ensuring data security and compliance. With user access control, companies can protect sensitive information and enforce organizational policies.
- Inventory Management: Efficient inventory management contributes to cost savings and customer satisfaction. As a result, top ERP alternatives track and manage inventory levels accurately, optimizing stock control and reducing the risk of overstocking or stockouts.
- Customer Relationship Management: These systems manage customer interactions and data, improving customer service and relationship management.
- Financial Management: Effective financial management supports strategic planning and regulatory compliance. The best ERP software handles accounting, budgeting, and financial reporting, providing a comprehensive view of the company's financial health.
From advanced inventory and order management to comprehensive CRM and e-commerce integration, these solutions provide the flexibility and scalability necessary for optimizing operations and driving growth. By exploring various ERP alternatives, businesses can find the perfect fit to enhance efficiency and achieve their strategic goals.
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