Best Manufacturing ERP Software Shortlist
I’ve found the best ERP software for manufacturing operations and reviewed them. I've also discussed features and prices so that you can find the best match for your needs.
- ERPNext — Best open-source manufacturing ERP software
- Striven — Best cloud-based manufacturing ERP software
- SAP S/4HANA — Best manufacturing ERP software with artificial intelligence
- Oracle Fusion Cloud ERP — Best for large enterprises
- Kinetic — Best for non-techies
- DELMIAWorks — Best for end-to-end visibility
- SYSPRO — Best all-in-one ERP software
- SyteLine — Best for small businesses
- Acumatica — Best for smaller budgets
- Rootstock — Best for Salesforce users
- Aptean — Best for process manufacturing
- JobBOSS 2 — Best for job shops
Juggling supply chains, manufacturing schedules, and shipment deadlines is not an easy task. Using manufacturing ERP software can reduce redundancy and improve efficiency, taking much of the work off your plate. I’ve found the best ERP software for the manufacturing industry, including a range of features, so you can choose one that best fits your needs.
What is Manufacturing ERP Software?
ERP software is designed to organize the various parts of running a business. Manufacturing ERP software is tailored to the needs of businesses that make physical products.
Rather than focusing on one type of business function, like finance or facilities, it offers a wide range of tools to assist with every aspect of business operations. In particular, the software is designed to manage many of the automated aspects of modern business. As a result, ERP software is well suited to manufacturing processes that use a lot of automation.
Overviews of the 12 Best Manufacturing ERP Software Products
Check out my reviews of the best manufacturing ERP software to find the best one for you.
1. ERPNext - The Best Open Source Manufacturing ERP Software
New software must always be tailored to your business’s specific needs, no matter how well designed. Open-source software like ERPNext can be totally customized to fit your business while remaining accessible for everyone on your team to use.
Why I picked ERPNext: One of the key selling points of ERPNext relates to its open-source nature, which makes it very easy to customize. I found that it’s possible to add what you need and remove fields and functions that you don’t use.
ERPNext Standout Features and Integrations:
Features that define ERPNext make it a great option for internet sales. It comes stocked with basic ERP modules for managing finances, inventory, and your manufacturing floor. One fascinating feature I found particularly interesting was the multilingual website builder so that you can sell products around the world.
Integrations include most Google products, including your calendar and maps. It’s also a great choice if your business depends on e-commerce, with integration into payment apps, marketplace apps, and more. ERPNext also has an API so that you can build your own integrations.
Pricing: Free open-source (add-ons available)
Trial: Free plan available
Pros
- Simple pricing structure
- Easy to customize
- Suitable for a range of industries
Cons
- Lacks customer support
- Lacks clear documentation
2. Striven - Best cloud-based manufacturing ERP software
Striven is a cloud-based manufacturing ERP created by a company with decades of experience. It gives you the ability to fully integrate the various parts of your business and offers features to fit the needs of continuous, discrete, and batch-process manufacturing.
Why I picked Striven: Striven offers a wide range of tools to fit the needs of your business, including features that enable job costing, production reports, and inventory control. While I found it lacking depth in training materials, it’s an affordable option for most businesses, from large to small.
Striven Standout Features and Integrations:
Features available from Striven include many to aid in your manufacturing business, whatever you manufacture. As cloud-based software, it excels in keeping the various aspects of a company organized, even if they’re at different locations. One feature I appreciated was the aid in finding and recruiting high-quality employees. If your business offers field service and maintenance, Striven can also help keep jobs organized and on time.
Integrations include business basics from both Google and Microsoft. Striven will also integrate directly with Ship Station and Twilio to communicate and ship to your clients more easily. It also has an API that allows you to build your own integrations.
Pricing: From $10/user/month (additional hosting fee of $99)
Trial: 7-day free trial
Pros
- Decades of industry experience
- Centralizes management, even across several locations
- Helpful and easy-to-contact customer service
Cons
- Lacks some training options
- ‘Portals’ for interacting with customers, vendors, and suppliers cost extra
3. SAP S/4HANA - Best manufacturing ERP software with artificial intelligence
SAP is one of the leading providers of ERP software. Adding S/4HANA improves the classic version in several ways, particularly by moving to the cloud and adding both artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). It can help automate many business processes and predict future needs.
Why I picked SAP S/4HANA: SAP has been used worldwide for years. SAP S/4HANA is its latest cloud-based version that adds a layer of AI and ML. That technology has taken a leap forward in the last couple of years, and this manufacturing ERP allows you to take advantage of those advances to improve your business.
SAP S/4HANA Standout Features and Integrations:
Features that I found the most interesting with SAP S/4HANA are ML and predictive AI, particularly Intelligent Scenario Lifecycle Management (ISLM). ILSM allows you to create “intelligent scenarios” that can be trained to handle many functions for you. You decide when they’re ready to be put into production.
Integrations aren’t included out of the box, which disappointed me. However, SAP provides APIs so you can integrate with your favorite apps and products.
Pricing: $0.75/unit/month (600 units and 3-month contract minimum)
Trial: 30-day free trial
Pros
- ML automates even complex processes
- Cloud-based service includes backups and recovery
- Easy-to-use interface tailored to the role
Cons
- Longer implementation times
- Expensive
4. Oracle Fusion Cloud ERP - Best for large enterprises
Oracle Fusion Cloud ERP offers a manufacturing ERP system with a long list of easy-to-use features built around a basic dashboard. However, keep in mind that what you see is what you get, as customization takes some effort.
Why I picked Oracle Fusion Cloud ERP: Oracle Fusion Cloud ERP made my list of the best manufacturing ERP software largely because of the positive things users have to say about it. With it, you can centralize decision-making and visualize workflows, making it much easier to meet company goals and deadlines.
Oracle Fusion Cloud ERP Standout Features and Integrations:
Features include the ability to locate resources from across your enterprise. You can search for the skills or availability you need easily. It’s also possible to track KPIs from all of the products in your business to see what’s working and where help is needed. The dashboard interface is simple to use and will be familiar to most people.
Integrations include most of the apps you’re looking for, including Microsoft and Google products. There is a long list of pre-built integrations, including a bunch of other Oracle apps, tools to build your own, and a marketplace of third-party authored integrations.
Pricing: From $200/unit (360 units and 3-year contract min)
Trial: 30-day free trial
Pros
- Lots of tools that aid in project management
- Simple-to-use interface
- Works with any size enterprise
Cons
- Customization can be complicated
- Expensive
5. Kinetic - Best for non-techies
Kinetic makes it easy to find what you’re looking for. It’s a cloud-based service that handles server requirements, security, and software updates for you. The interface is simple to navigate and use, with enough flexibility to do what you want.
Why I picked Kinetic: ERP software like Kinetic brings many different aspects of operations together. As a result, many people in your company will come in contact with it, including many who aren’t tech-savvy. Kinetic’s simple and intuitive interface makes sure those folks won’t get lost, preventing errors or even slowdowns.
Kinetic Standout Features and Integrations:
Features included in Kinetic are business insights and analytics, as well as eCommerce, customer relationship management (CRM), and production management tools. It also links with Epicor’s Internet of Things (IoT) system for a manufacturing floor, allowing for real-time monitoring of production. Kinetic also includes the Epicor virtual agent, an AI tool that allows you to easily navigate the software and even issue commands in plain language.
Integrations include the standard Microsoft and Google products that I look for in most options. Epicor, the maker of Kinetic, has its own integration API platform, which means the software can integrate with a long list of other apps. Noteworthy options include Amazon Web Services, Salesforce, and SilkRoad.
Pricing: Pricing upon request
Trial: Free demo available
Pros
- Intuitive interface
- Lots of integrations
- IoT system for production management
Cons
- Lackluster customer support
- Lacks some features
6. DELMIAWorks - Best for end-to-end visibility
Production is only one part of the manufacturing process. DELMIAWorks offers a complete look at your business, from sales and materials sourcing to shipping.
Why I picked DELMIAWorks: Dozens of modules are included without additional cost. Among them are a manufacturing execution system and tools for monitoring both production and supply chain management. Best of all, this software can be used by both small and large enterprises.
DELMIAWorks Standout Features and Integrations:
Features include functions for running a multi-plant company, CRM, shipping, and workforce management. I was particularly impressed with the scheduling, production planning, bill of materials handling, and real-time visibility. DELMIAWorks also features impressive EDI and e-commerce functionality.
Integrations are centered around the DELMIAWorks API. You can create new integrations using the WEB API, sharing your ERP data with other systems. This helps you improve communication, collaboration, and interoperability within your company. Be warned, though; it will require some technical expertise and work from the software developers on your team.
Pricing: Pricing upon request
Trial: Free demo upon request
Pros
- Lots of modules for different areas of your business
- Scales to any size business
- Webinars and training services are available
Cons
- Updates cause errors
- Difficult to use
7. SYSPRO - Best all-in-one ERP software
SYSPRO collects and analyzes data on how your business operates, looking for problems and inefficiencies that are costing you money. Its analytics are actually praised by specialists in the field.
Why I picked SYSPRO: Understanding where your business works and where it doesn’t is a key part of success. I found that SYSPRO covers all aspects of manufacturing, distribution, and finance, as well as advanced reporting and planning, and offers automated workflow capabilities. It allows you to spot inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and other issues slowing down your production pipeline.
SYSPRO Standout Features and Integrations:
Features include linked product analysis and pricing and inventory management tools. It also provides tools for distribution and tracking. I found that SYSPRO is especially strong in its handling of order management, production planning, and capacity forecasting.
Integrations are based on the SYSPRO integration framework. Since the software is built on Microsoft’s .NET framework, it integrates with Microsoft products. You can connect to other applications using the API.
Pricing: Pricing upon request
Trial: Free demo available
Pros
- Detailed business analysis
- High-quality inventory management
- Cloud and local server options
Cons
- Prone to errors
- Poor search functionality
8. Syteline - Best for small businesses
Manufacturing is becoming an ever more automated industry. Syteline provides ERP software that provides smaller manufacturing companies with end-to-end automation and streamlined data analysis.
Why I picked Syteline: What makes Syteline such a powerful ERP solution suitable for smaller manufacturers is its use of automation, AI, and ML technologies. It helps to reduce the complexity of operations, opens more processes up to automation, and provides advanced planning tools.
Syteline Standout Features and Integrations:
Features include a supplier portal, shop floor planning, as well as a single interface for all project management. I also found impressive features to help with product quality control, meeting customer demands, supply chains, and financials, and improving collaboration by means of portals involving customers, vendors, and resellers.
Integrations include many options. However, I found that integrations with Syteline are another service that may come with additional costs.
Pricing: Price upon request
Trial: Free demo available
Pros
- Customizable
- Dedicated portals for suppliers, vendors, and customers
- Project management tools
Cons
- Complicated interface
- Lacks reporting options
9. Acumatica - Best for smaller budgets
Not all manufacturing is the same. Acumatica offers tools for managing several different manufacturing approaches, including make-to-order, make-to-stock, and batch manufacturing.
Why I picked Acumatica: Juggling different manufacturing methodologies opens up new jobs, improves efficiency, and reduces cost, but it’s complicated. I found that Acumatica’s primary appeal is that it can handle all of that as well as streamline processes and manage multiple sites. And all for a reasonable price.
Acumatica Standout Features and Integrations:
Features include support for several manufacturing methods, easy access to data anywhere, and automated order management. I found that Acumatica offers a comprehensive solution with the tools needed by manufacturing businesses to manage and automate their production planning, scheduling, and inventorying requirements.
Integrations with Acumatica may come at an additional cost. You’ll have to contact Acumatica or a partner. It's missing some standards, including Google and Microsoft.
Pricing: Price upon request
Trial: Free demo available
Pros
- Support for multiple manufacturing methodologies
- Intuitive interface
- Full range of functionality
Cons
- Lackluster customer support
- Implementation may be lengthy
10. Rootstock - Best for Salesforce users
Rootstock is built on the Salesforce platform, creating a tightly integrated value chain from raw material supply to finished goods shipping.
Why I picked Rootstock: Many businesses use salesforce.com to generate leads and fulfill orders, which is great for distribution or direct sales businesses. But for a manufacturing business, it can create challenges. I found that Rootstock provides a unique opportunity to combine sales, service, and manufacturing.
Rootstock Standout Features and Integrations:
Features include customization without coding. Connect employees with Salesforce chatter—automated returns and warranties management.
Integrations are available through the Salesforce App Exchange. At last count, there were over 7000 apps on the platform. Popular tools include Sage, REDA, Goldfinch, and Ascend ERP tools.
Pricing: From $150/user/month
Trial: Free demo available
Pros
- Built on the Salesforce platform
- Regular updates and improvements
- Easy to use
Cons
- Substandard customer support
- Frequent bugs
11. Aptean - Best for process manufacturing
Process manufacturing comes with some special challenges, including precise manufacturing timetables and expiration dates. Aptean ERP offers a solution designed to handle these challenges.
Why I picked Aptean: To be clear, Aptean doesn’t only handle process manufacturing, but it is an area of specialty. Some of the fastest growing business sectors for small businesses, like canna-business and nutraceuticals, use this type of manufacturing. Aptean ERP enables you to precisely manage the most complex of formulas or recipes and manufacture products of the highest quality.
Aptean Standout Features and Integrations:
Features include regulatory reporting, integrated testing processes, formula, and receipt management. But what impressed me most was the ability to manage variables such as batch size, potency, yield management, allergen control, and quality testing. This product also offers inventory and warehouse management, lot tracing, recall capabilities, streamlined compliance functionality, production planning, and product costing.
Integrations may require third-party service. Aptean also doesn’t offer APIs.
Pricing: Price upon request
Trial: Free demo available
Pros
- Action center for monitoring KPIs
- Tools for custom pricing and discounts
- Intelligent inventory
Cons
- Integrations are complicated
- Limited customization
12. JobBOSS 2 - Best for job shops
JobBOSS is tailored for job shops and small batch manufacturing, bringing state-of-the-art ERP systems to small and mid-sized businesses.
Why I picked JobBOSS 2: ERP systems are often designed for enterprise-level businesses, with features like multi-facility support. I find that most job shops and small-scale manufacturers don’t need those features, while their actual needs are unaddressed. JobBOSS 2 makes it easy to handle, organize, track, and bill for smaller jobs.
Job Boss 2 Standout Features and Integrations:
Features include machine intelligence for improving efficiency, easy customization, and an intuitive interface. I discovered that JobBOSS 2 allows you to boost your shop’s competitive advantage through improved quality control while also reducing costs and improving your supply chain management.
Integrations include other ECI products. Also, integrates with accounting products, including QuickBooks and Sage 50.
Pricing: Price upon request
Trial: Free demo available
Pros
- Tools for small jobs
- Mobile apps for access everywhere
- Analysis of shop performance
Cons
- Limited integrations
- Some features are difficult to use
Other Options
There is no shortage of manufacturing ERPs available, each with its own focus and set of features. Take a look at these additional manufacturing ERP software options.
- Dynamics 365 — Best for personalization
- Odoo — Best for integrations
- Fishbowl Manufacturing — Best for multiple factories
- Cority IQS — Best for quality management
- Sage X3 — Best for visualizing data
- Global Shop Solutions — Best for managing a shop floor
- QAD ERP — Best for make-to-stock and warehousing
- Datacor — Best for chemical manufacturers
- S2K Enterprise — Best for the mid-market
- IFS Applications — Best for Agile operations
Selection Criteria for Manufacturing ERP Software
Here’s a short summary of the main selection and evaluation criteria I used to develop my list of the best manufacturing ERP software for this article:
Core Functionality
Manufacturing ERP must deliver specific features to streamline and automate core business and manufacturing processes. It should help you control the operation, from the shop floor to the executive suite, creating a complete business management platform.
Key Features
In order to deliver the core functionality I outlined above, here are the basic features products that made it onto my list had to provide:
- Inventory management: My first piece of critical functionality was the ability to effectively manage the process of ordering, storing, using, and selling a company’s inventory, along with managing raw materials, components, and finished products.
- Financial management: The second capability I looked for was the means for planning, organizing, directing, and controlling the financial activities of the business.
- Supply chain management: Another must-have feature to make my list is being able to handle the entire production flow, from sourcing raw components all the way to delivering the final product to the consumer.
- Quality management: My final piece of critical functionality is the ability to monitor, control, and record quality processes in order to verify that goods are produced within tolerance, in accordance with all relevant standards, and are free from defects.
Usability
ERP software will be used by employees at all levels of a company, with varying levels of comfort with the software. An intuitive and simple interface is crucial.
Module Availability
ERP software usually comes with a set of business functions it covers with its ‘base model,’ usually including scheduling, financing, and a few others. Adding modules offers functions that may not come with the base offering.
Training and Support
Even the most intuitive software takes some time to learn. Transitioning to new ERP software can cost you time and money. Quality training shortens transition times after implementation, while support allows for quickly resolving problems.
People Also Ask
Still have questions about how manufacturing ERP software works or what to look for? We have the answers to commonly asked questions.
What is the most common ERP system used in manufacturing?
What is the difference between MRP and ERP systems?
What are the three types of ERP deployments?
Final Thoughts
Choosing a manufacturing ERP for your business can be daunting. Your choice will have a profound effect on how your business runs, as nearly every aspect will be touched by the ERP software. However, there are options catering to nearly every sort of manufacturing. This guide is a great place to start your search. With it, you can find the option that perfectly fits your needs.
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