10 Best ERP Software Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 19 tools reviewed.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
There are seemingly countless ERP solutions available, so figuring out which is best for you is tough. You want to improve efficiency, increase productivity, enhance data accuracy, and access better decision-making capabilities, but need to figure out which tool is best for the job. Don't fret! In this post I make things simple, leveraging my consulting experience and exposure to diverse ERP tools to bring you this shortlist of the best ERP software.
What is ERP software?
ERP software is a comprehensive business management solution that integrates and centralizes various processes and functions within an organization. Through centralized data management, real-time reporting, automation of routine tasks, and modules tailored to specific business functions, it serves as a unified system to streamline data flow, enhance communication between departments, and enable efficient resource planning for improved overall business performance.
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Overviews Of The 10 Best ERP Software
I’ve summarized the main selling points of each tool below. My evaluation primarily focuses on features like integrations and usability, which are essential for managing and integrating your core business processes. Additionally, I’ve included an assessment of the pros and cons of each tool, along with supporting screenshots of their user interface.
Xledger is a cloud-based ERP software solution designed for accounting and financial teams with complex task management needs. The tool focuses on automation, insight, and scalability, allowing users to streamline their workflows. It integrates various business functions, like financials, HR, and project accounting, into one complete system to streamline processes and information across the organization.
Why I Picked Xledger: The platform excels in delivering real-time visibility into financial data across all aspects of a business, which is critical for fast-paced decision-making. Its automation of key accounting processes, such as invoicing, reconciliations, and reporting, significantly reduces manual labor and minimizes the risk of errors. The platform also supports multi-currency transactions and international compliance standards, useful for global organizations.
Xledger Standout Features and Integrations
Features include multi-entity support for consolidated financial information and reporting, asset management to help organizations track and manage their fixed assets, employee expense and time tracking, and workflow management. Xledger also provides a mobile app for users to access the system and perform tasks on the go.
Integrations include Harvest, Salesforce, Magento, GoldFinch, Microsoft Dynamics CRM, JPMorgan Chase Bank, Chase Credit Card, and more.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Scalable platform
- Real-time reporting and dashboards
- Automatic postings on bank entries
Cons:
- Learning curve for new users
- Limited customizations
Acumatica is a cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) software solution designed for small and medium-sized businesses. Acumatica helps organizations streamline their operations and improve collaboration across departments. The platform is known for its flexibility, scalability, and industry-specific functionality, making it a valuable solution for businesses looking to optimize their processes and drive growth.
Why I picked Acumatica: I chose Acumatica as the best ERP software for businesses with cloud-based workflows. Acumatica is a cloud-based ERP system that provides businesses with the flexibility and scalability needed to manage their workflows in the cloud.
Acumatica Standout Features and Integrations
Features include its cloud-based architecture making it ideal for distributed teams or remote employees. Acumatica’s modular design allows businesses to choose the modules they need to meet their specific requirements and customize the software to their specific workflows. Acumatica also offers strong financial management functionalities that comply with accounting standards such as GAAP and IFRS, providing businesses with real-time insights into their financial health.
Integrations include native and pre-built connectors such as Salesforce, Hubspot, Shopify, Magento, DocuSign, Smartsheet, Avalara, PayPal, Microsoft Office 365, and more. Additionally, Acumatica can develop custom integrations with other software solutions through its REST API.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time reporting
- Mobile accessibility
- Cloud-based
Cons:
- Lack of pricing transparency
- Limited industry-specific solutions
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central is a cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) software designed for small and medium-sized businesses. Business Central helps organizations streamline their operations and make data-driven decisions. The platform is known for its integration with other Microsoft products, flexibility, and scalability, making it a valuable solution for businesses looking to optimize their processes and drive growth.
Why I picked Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central: If you're looking for ERP software that prioritizes integrations, my top recommendation is Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central. Whether you need pre-built integrations, native connections to other Microsoft products, or an open API that allows for custom integrations, this ERP tool has it all.
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central Standout Features and Integrations
Features include its wide range of pre-built integrations and native connections to other Microsoft products, as well as popular third-party software. Its open API allows for custom integrations and flexible tailoring to meet specific needs. Microsoft's security and compliance protocols ensure safe data transfer between systems, making it an ideal choice for sensitive data or highly regulated industries.
Integrations include native Microsoft 365 connectors such as Outlook, Excel, Word, OneDrive, and Teams. Pre-built integrations include Shopify, Magento, PayPal, QuickBooks, Salesforce, ZohoCRM, Stripe, AdobeSign, and more. Additionally, Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central can develop custom integrations with other software solutions through its open API.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Robust security and compliance
- Multi-currency and multi-language support
- Easy-to-use drag-and-drop interface
- Wide-range of pre-built and native integrations
Cons:
- Limited offline functionality for mobile app
- Limited scalability for on-premise deployments
TallyPrime is an accounting software designed for small and medium-sized businesses, offering features such as financial accounting, inventory management, and GST compliance. With its user-friendly interface and customizable workflows, TallyPrime helps businesses manage their finances efficiently and stay compliant with tax regulations. The platform is known for its reliability, scalability, and ease of use, making it a valuable solution for businesses looking to streamline their accounting processes and focus on growth.
Why I picked TallyPrime: After reviewing TallyPrime’s ERP services, I would highly recommend this platform for nonprofits on a tight budget looking for a reliable and cost-effective ERP solution. TallyPrime is a reliable and user-friendly ERP solution that provides affordable pricing and an intuitive design, making it accessible for non-technical users who may not have a dedicated IT team.
TallyPrime Standout Features and Integrations
Features include TallyPrime’s affordability and user-friendly interface, which make it perfect for nonprofits and organizations with limited budgets and technical staff. Its financial management capabilities include accounting, billing, inventory management, and payroll processing, with real-time financial reporting. Additionally, TallyPrime's remote access and compliance features provide accessibility and regulatory compliance for organizations.
Integrations include pre-built connectors such as Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, PayPal, AWS, Shopify, Magento, Zoho CRM, QuickBooks, Razorpay, and more. Additionally, TallyPrime can develop custom integrations with other software solutions through its open API.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Easy-to-use
- Remote access
- Flexible pricing plans
Cons:
- Lacks advanced reporting and analytics
- Lack of scalability
Infor is a global provider of enterprise software solutions, offering industry-specific applications for various sectors such as manufacturing, distribution, healthcare, and more. With its cloud-based ERP, EAM (Enterprise Asset Management), and HCM (Human Capital Management) solutions, Infor helps organizations streamline their operations and drive digital transformation. The platform is known for its innovative approach, scalability, and flexibility, making it a valuable solution for businesses of all sizes looking to improve efficiency and stay competitive in their respective industries.
Why I picked Infor: I recommend Infor as the top ERP solution for businesses that have complex supply chains. Infor's ERP system is tailored to help businesses manage their supply chains more efficiently, no matter how many locations your business has. It has the bandwidth and resources to tackle logistical operations in both the front and back of the office and distribution centers.
Infor Standout Features and Integrations
Features include a range of features to help businesses manage their supply chain processes, like demand planning, inventory management, warehouse management, and transportation management. Infor's ERP system can be tailored to meet the unique requirements and processes of each business, enabling them to efficiently manage their supply chains. Infor's advanced analytics and reporting capabilities also provide businesses with real-time visibility into their supply chain processes, allowing them to quickly respond to changes in demand or supply.
Integrations include native and pre-built connectors such as Microsoft Office, Salesforce, Infor OS, Infor Coleman AI, Infor Document Management, Infor CRM, Infor Nexus, Infor EAM, and more. Additionally, Infor can develop custom integrations with other software solutions through its open API.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Cloud-based deployment
- Mobile app
- Industry-specific solutions for verticals such as manufacturing, healthcare, and retail
- Multi-language and multi-currency support
Cons:
- Requires dedicated IT team for maintenance and updates
- Lack of pricing transparency
ERPNext is an open-source enterprise resource planning (ERP) software designed to help businesses manage various aspects of their operations, including accounting, inventory management, CRM, and project management. With its modular approach and customizable workflows, ERPNext offers flexibility to adapt to the specific needs of different industries and organizations. The platform is known for its user-friendly interface, community-driven development, and affordability, making it a valuable solution for businesses looking to streamline their processes and improve efficiency.
Why I picked ERPNext: For this list, I've chosen ERPnext as the top open-source ERP software out there. With ERPnext, businesses get a complete set of tools to manage their operations, finances, and customers all in one place. It's perfect for small and medium-sized companies looking for a budget-friendly solution to streamline their business processes.
ERPNext Standout Features and Integrations
Features include its open-source nature, offering businesses the freedom to modify the software according to their specific needs. ERPNext provides businesses with an affordable option to get started with ERP software without incurring any licensing costs. It offers accounting and finance management, inventory management, project management, and customer relationship management features. ERPNext has an intuitive user interface, is cloud-based, and is accessible from iOS and Android devices.
Integrations that are native include Twillo, Nexmo, Email, PayPal, Stripe, and barcode scanning services. Pre-built integrations include Shopify, WooCommerce, Salesforce, Google Suite, Slack, and more. Additionally, ERPNext can develop custom integrations with other software solutions through its REST API.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Active community
- Mobile-friendly
- Cloud-based
- Open-source
Cons:
- Limited user support
- Limited scalability
OdooERP is an open-source enterprise resource planning (ERP) software suite designed to help businesses manage various aspects of their operations. With modules covering CRM, inventory management, accounting, and more, OdooERP offers a comprehensive solution for businesses of all sizes and industries. Known for its flexibility, scalability, and user-friendly interface, OdooERP is a popular choice for organizations looking to streamline their processes, improve efficiency, and drive growth.
Why I picked OdooERP: I decided to select Odoo ERP as the best ERP software with the most user-centric approach to design. Odoo's ERP system offers a modern and intuitive user interface that simplifies complex business processes and makes it easier for employees to use the software.
OdooERP Standout Features and Integrations
Features include a user-centric design, emphasizing simplicity, ease of use, and accessibility. Its user-friendly customizable dashboards, drag-and-drop functionality, and real-time data analytics can help your team get more done. It also offers flexible deployment options and excellent customer support and training resources to ensure businesses get the most out of their ERP system.
Integrations include native and pre-built connectors such as Paypal, Stripe, Magento, Shopify, WooCommerce, Salesforce, Hubspot, Quickbooks, Sage, Facebook, Linkedin, and more. Additionally, Odoo ERP can develop custom integrations with other software solutions through its REST API.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Cloud-based
- Open-source
- Affordable
- All-in-one solution
Cons:
- Upgrade challenges
- Limited reporting capabilities
Epicor Kinetic is a cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution designed to meet the needs of manufacturers and distributors. Epicor Kinetic helps businesses streamline their operations and drive growth. Known for its modern interface, industry-specific functionality, and scalability, Epicor Kinetic is a valuable solution for organizations looking to improve efficiency and agility in their business processes.
Why I picked Epicor Kinetic: I decided to go with Epicor Kinetic for its reliable reporting and analytics features that provide insights tailored for businesses in a variety of industries. The cloud-based platform also has a user-friendly interface, real-time inventory tracking, project management tools, and CRM features, making it an ideal customizable ERP solution for businesses.
Epicor Kinetic Standout Features and Integrations
Features include industry-specific reporting and analytics capabilities, multi-lingual support, and customizable workflows. It also includes financial management tools, supply chain management tools, and project management tools. Epicor Kinetic is internet accessible and secure with data encryption and user permissions, ideal for remote work and multiple locations.
Integrations include Microsoft Office, Salesforce, Shopify, HubSpot, DocuSign, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Zendesk, Magento, SugarCRM, and Power BI. It also supports integration with various third-party applications through REST APIs and web services.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Cloud-based
- Multi-currency and multi-company support
- Mobile app
Cons:
- Heavy system requirements and potential for performance issues on older hardware
- Pricing details aren't transparent
Genius ERP is a comprehensive Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software designed specifically for manufacturers. With its user-friendly interface, customizable workflows, and industry-specific modules, Genius ERP is a valuable solution for manufacturers looking to optimize their processes and drive business growth.
Why I picked Genius ERP: I found that Genius ERP is a great option for small businesses looking for ERP software. Its modular design lets you customize it as much as you want, and it also has strong integration capabilities to connect with third-party applications and tools. Overall, Genius ERP is a standout option for small businesses that want an efficient, cost-effective, and easy-to-use solution.
Genius ERP Standout Features and Integrations
Features include a user-friendly interface that allows for easy navigation and connection to other applications like accounting or CRM tools that you might already be using. The modular design of the software lets you select the features you absolutely need, which can help cut down on costs. The software has real-time inventory tracking, letting you keep an eye on inventory. It also includes project management tools to help you stay on top of tasks and deadlines, and collect accurate data about your leads and projected sales.
Integrations include Salesforce, Shopify, QuickBooks, Microsoft Office, UPS, Zoho CRM, Autodesk, Avalara, Power BI, and more. Genius ERP also supports integrations with third-party applications via REST API.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Easy-to-use
- Real-time inventory tracking
- Cloud-based
- Modular customization features
Cons:
- Lack of pricing transparency
- Limited options for budgeting and forecasting
IFS is a leading provider of enterprise software solutions, offering a comprehensive suite of applications for various industries including manufacturing, aerospace and defense, and service management. With modules covering enterprise resource planning (ERP), enterprise asset management (EAM), and field service management (FSM), IFS helps organizations streamline their operations, improve efficiency, and drive growth. Known for its flexibility, scalability, and industry-specific functionality, IFS is a trusted choice for organizations looking to optimize their business processes and achieve operational excellence.
Why I picked IFS: IFS stood out to me as the best ERP solution for businesses with asset-intensive operations. IFS offers a range of functionalities that are specifically designed to meet the needs of businesses that rely heavily on physical assets. It also boasts a user-friendly interface and lots of industry-specific ERP solutions.
IFS Standout Features and Integrations
Features include advanced asset tracking, maintenance planning, and scheduling functionalities, making it a top choice for businesses with asset-intensive operations. ERP solutions are tailored to meet industry-specific requirements, with cloud-based supply chain management capabilities that can reduce complexity in your operations, allowing for more streamlined processes. IFS also offers advanced analytics and reporting, a user-friendly interface, and customizable dashboards. These features help businesses gain easy-to-understand insight on workflow metrics, regardless of the industry, or even the device you’re viewing the data on.
Integrations include native IFS connectors such as IFS Field Service Management and IFS Enterprise Asset Management (EAM). Pre-built integrations include Salesforce, Microsoft Office, Oracle, Primavera, IBM Maximo, ClickSoftware, PTC Windchill, and more. Additionally, IFS can develop custom integrations with other software solutions through its open API.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Easy-to-use workflows and automation features
- Advanced analytics and reporting
- Advanced asset tracking and maintenance planning
Cons:
- Limited support for e-commerce functionalities
- Lack of pricing transparency
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Xledger | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Acumatica Cloud ERP | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Microsoft Dynamics 365 | From $153.60 /user/month | Website |
| TallyPrime | From $630/year | Website |
| Infor ERP | Pricing upon request | Website |
| ERPNext | From $10/site/month | Website |
| Odoo ERP | From $24.90/user/month (billed annually). | Website |
| Epicor Kinetic | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Genius ERP | Pricing upon request | Website |
| IFS | Pricing upon request | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareOther Options
Here are a few more worthwhile options that didn’t make the best ERP software list:
- SAP ERP
Best for multinational organizations
- NetSuite
Best for growing teams
- Sage Intacct
Best for financial operations
- MRPeasy
Best for small manufacturers' visibility
- Katana Manufacturing ERP
Best ERP software for production planning and scheduling
- AccountMate
Best ERP software for customization features
- Open Systems Traverse
Best ERP software for automating inventory management
- SYSPRO ERP
Best ERP software for supply chain management features
- Cougar Mountain Denali Summit
Best cost-effective ERP software
Selection Criteria For the Best ERP Software
After analyzing dozens of ERP platforms, along with reading feedback from users and experts in the industry, I was able to put together this list of the top ERP software solutions. I was really looking for ERP software with the best usability and integration options, which I’ll go into more detail about below.
Core Functionality
To start, I evaluated a wide variety of popular ERP software that included core ERP functionalities such as:
- Centralizing business functions such as accounting, procurement, inventory, order processing, manufacturing, project management, and human resources in a single system.
- Reporting and analytics capabilities to track key performance indicators and identify areas for improvement.
Key Features
To deliver the core functionality outlined above, ERP software needs these key features:
- Centralized database: This feature allows for efficient collaboration and streamlined workflows by providing easy access to data for different departments and users.
- Financial management: The best ERP software gives you real-time insights into your financial health, a general ledger, accounts payable and receivable, and budgeting tools to manage finances easier.
- Supply chain management: It’s difficult to keep an eye on your supply chain without proper inventory management, procurement, and logistics features.
- Manufacturing management: There should be features for production planning, scheduling, and shop floor management to automate manufacturing processes.
- Reporting and analytics: Reporting and analytics features should be supported in order to generate reports and gain insights into operations.
- Customer relationship management: ERP software should include sales management, marketing, and customer service features to provide consistent and personalized customer experiences.
- Integration with other systems: Integrations should exist with other systems like CRM, e-commerce, and business intelligence tools, automating workflows and avoiding duplication of effort.
- Customization: ERP software should be customizable to meet unique business processes and workflows by adding new fields, modifying workflows, or building custom integrations.
- Mobile access: The software should provide mobile access to real-time data, allowing remote work and collaboration, and improving productivity.
Usability
I gave priority to tools that offer a user-friendly experience and are easy to implement and use. Although there is always a learning curve with new software, your team should not spend weeks figuring out how to use ERP features. I selected solutions with clean and straightforward interfaces, neatly organized menus, and easy-to-use functionalities. Your team should be able to navigate the software with ease and locate the necessary features without any difficulty.
Value For Money
In order to ensure a good return on investment, I chose software that offers a comprehensive set of features at an affordable price. ERP software generally runs from around $30 per user per month for basic features, to up to as much as around $80 per user per month for advanced features, like AI-driven insights and analytics.
Additionally, many systems provide free trials or demos, which I highly recommend taking advantage of to determine if the software can meet all of your business requirements.
Integrations
To simplify your search for ERP software, I have chosen systems that seamlessly integrate with complementary tools such as CRM and financial management. To further assist you, I have also highlighted the essential integrations for each system.
Data Analytics/Management
I focused on selecting ERP tools with strong data analytics/management capabilities because they can help businesses make informed decisions and get a deeper understanding of their operations. By analyzing data from different business functions like sales, procurement, inventory, and manufacturing, companies can detect trends, patterns, and opportunities for improvement.
People Also Ask
Here are some common questions people ask about ERP software:
What business processes gain advantages from ERP?
ERP software optimizes various business functions such as finance, HR, supply chain, inventory, manufacturing, project management, and CRM by integrating them into a single system. This improves data accuracy, streamlines processes, increases efficiency, reduces costs, and leads to more informed decisions.
What questions should I ask when evaluating ERP software?
When evaluating ERP software, ask vendors about their industry experience, deployment options, total cost of ownership, customization and scalability, security features, training and support, integration capabilities, and roadmap for future development. Request customer references and address any concerns you may have.
How does on-premise ERP software differ from cloud-based ERP software?
On-premise ERP software is installed locally on a company’s servers, while cloud ERP software is hosted on the vendor’s servers and accessed via the internet. On-premise ERP requires more IT resources and maintenance, while cloud ERP offers more flexibility, scalability, and accessibility, with lower upfront costs and faster implementation times. However, on-premise ERP may offer more control over data security and customization.
What is an ERP used for?
ERP software lets companies manage and integrate all their core business processes in one system, both on-premises and in the cloud. This can include finance and accounting, HR, inventory and supply chain management, sales and marketing, and customer relationship management.
The idea is to give businesses a comprehensive view of their operations and streamline their workflows so they can be more productive and make better decisions. ERP software usually comes with many different modules that can be customized to fit a business’s specific needs, either by an internal team member or an ERP consultant.
So, Which ERP software is Right for You?
For this article, I've done the research and analysis to help you find the best ERP software for your business needs. This list includes options for businesses of all sizes, from small startups to large enterprises, and covers a range of industries. Each software on our list offers unique features, such as cloud-based workflows, open-source customization, and user-friendly interfaces. I've also provided the pros and cons of each software to help you make an informed decision.
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