23 Best Process Manufacturing ERP Software in 2024
Best Process Manufacturing ERP Software 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.
Relying on your warehouse team to keep every piece of data perfectly organized is a tall order. Especially when you consider ERP systems could do it all in the background. These systems consolidate information, reduce production downtime with instant access to inventory levels, cut costs through optimized supply chain management, and enhance product quality by seamlessly tracking defects and maintenance schedules. These are just a few ways ERP tools can transform your operations.
To assist you in finding the right solution, I've leveraged my industry experience and reviewed the top ERP software options available in the market today, specifically tailored for the manufacturing industry. Here are my picks for the best process manufacturing ERP:
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Best Process Manufacturing ERP Software Summary
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Katana Manufacturing ERP | From $179/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| DELMIAWorks Manufacturing ERP | From $35/user/month | Website |
| Aptean | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Datacor | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Infor | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Deacom | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Genius ERP | Pricing upon request | Website |
| SYSPRO ERP | From $199/user/month | Website |
| ERPNext | From $50/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Acumatica | Pricing upon request | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareHow To Choose Process Manufacturing ERP Software
As you work through your unique software selection process, here are a few important criteria to keep in mind:
- Scalability and Flexibility: Ensure the ERP software can grow with your business. It should handle increased data volume and complexity if your company expands its product lines or enters new markets without needing a complete overhaul.
- Regulatory Compliance: Process manufacturing often involves strict regulatory requirements. The ERP software should ensure compliance with industry standards like FDA regulations for pharmaceuticals or food safety standards for the food and beverage industry, saving you from costly fines and legal issues.
- Real-Time Data and Analytics: Access to real-time data is crucial for informed decision-making. The ERP software should offer comprehensive analytics and reporting tools to monitor production, track inventory, and forecast demand accurately, reducing waste and optimizing resource allocation.
- Integration Capabilities: The ERP software should integrate seamlessly with existing systems like CRM, SCM, and MES. This ensures smooth data flow across departments, enhancing operational efficiency. For example, integrating with a CRM system improves customer insights and sales forecasting.
- User-Friendly Interface: A complex system can frustrate users and reduce productivity. The ERP software should have an intuitive interface that is easy for employees to learn, reducing training time and enabling quicker adoption across the organization.
Best Process Manufacturing ERP Software Reviews
Here’s my in-depth analysis of various process manufacturing ERP software. It details the pros and cons, features, and best use cases for each tool.
Best for real-time inventory visibility in manufacturing
Katana Manufacturing ERP is a cloud-based software providing real-time inventory, production, and sales management for process manufacturing companies.
Why I Picked Katana Manufacturing ERP: I chose Katana Manufacturing ERP for its robust real-time inventory management capabilities. Its live inventory insights and seamless integration with other systems make it ideal for maintaining optimal stock levels and streamlining operations.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include real-time inventory management, production management, sales order management, planning and forecasting, cloud accounting, and warehouse management.
Integrations include Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, QuickBooks Online, Xero, Zapier, Salesforce, HubSpot, Google Sheets, and Microsoft Excel.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive production management
- Seamless ecommerce integrations
- Real-time inventory insights
Cons:
- Requires annual billing
- Limited offline capabilities
Best for shop floor-focused ERP in mid-market manufacturing
DELMIAWorks is an ERP system enhancing mid-market manufacturers' efficiency with real-time data and comprehensive shop floor visibility.
Why I Picked DELMIAWorks: I chose DELMIAWorks for its strong focus on the shop floor, offering real-time data and comprehensive visibility into manufacturing processes. It's ideal for shop floor-focused ERP, helping mid-market manufacturers increase efficiency and operational success.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include real-time visibility of manufacturing processes, end-to-end control, and integration of manufacturing, MES, and ERP software, supporting various manufacturing environments. Access to resources like case studies, webinars, and training programs is also provided.
Integrations include SolidWorks, 3DEXPERIENCE, QuickBooks, Microsoft Dynamics, SAP, Oracle, Salesforce, HubSpot, NetSuite, and Infor.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Scalable for all company sizes
- Comprehensive ERP solution
- Real-time data visibility
Cons:
- Complex reporting features may require training or support
- Cost is higher than some other software tools
Aptean provides specialized ERP software tailored for process manufacturing industries like chemical, nutraceutical, and cannabis, enhancing visibility, compliance, and operational efficiency.
Why I Picked Aptean: I chose Aptean for the list because it stands out with its industry-specific focus and comprehensive set of tools designed to meet the unique needs of process manufacturers. Aptean's tailored approach ensures that businesses can address their specific challenges without extensive customizations, making it the best for tailored process manufacturing software.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include formula and recipe management, lot traceability, material requirements planning, quality and compliance, research and development, and production scheduling.
Integrations include Aptean Pay, Aptean EDI, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Outlook, QuickBooks, Alumio, Salesforce, Pipedrive, and Makini.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time information
- Comprehensive toolset
- Industry-specific solutions
Cons:
- Limited to specific industries
- May require training
Datacor offers advanced process manufacturing ERP software tailored to industries like chemical, food & beverage, personal care, and industrial, maximizing productivity and driving smarter growth.
Why I Picked Datacor: I chose Datacor for its strong focus on industry-specific needs and its comprehensive suite of tools designed to optimize process manufacturing. Datacor excels in integrating all back-end operations, providing a centralized system that enhances visibility and control.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include centralized inventory and procurement management, real-time data access through its flexible CRM solution, and advanced business intelligence tools.
Integrations include TrackAbout, Chemstations, Format Solutions, LabelCalc, QuickBooks, Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics, SAP, Oracle, and Google Analytics.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time data access
- Comprehensive ERP suite
- Industry-specific technology
Cons:
- Limited to specific industries
- Potentially complex setup
Infor offers cloud-based ERP solutions tailored to specific industries, enhancing operational efficiency and supporting extensive customization and integration capabilities.
Why I Picked Infor: I chose Infor for its robust, preconfigured ERP solutions that cater to a wide range of industries. Infor stands out for its ability to offer tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of various sectors, making it a versatile choice for businesses. I believe Infor is best for preconfigured ERP solutions because it provides industry-specific functionalities that reduce the need for extensive customizations, saving time and resources.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include finance and accounting, supply chain management, planning and scheduling, project management, and human capital management, designed to support various business operations comprehensively.
Integrations include Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics, SAP, Oracle, IBM, Google Cloud, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Tableau, Slack, and Jira.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong integration capabilities
- Comprehensive feature set
- Industry-specific solutions
Cons:
- Users must pay for the training
- Not the most user-friendly interface
Deacom ERP provides comprehensive functionalities to streamline operations and ensure transparent pricing for batch and process manufacturers.
Why I Picked Deacom: I chose Deacom for its focus on batch and process manufacturing. Its predictable pricing and comprehensive features make it ideal for streamlining operations without unexpected costs.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include batch production, quality control testing, supply chain planning, real-time reporting, and mobile access.
Integrations include Salesforce, QuickBooks, Shopify, Magento, Amazon, Microsoft Dynamics, Oracle, SAP, Google Analytics, and Mailchimp.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time reporting
- Comprehensive feature set
- Predictable pricing model
Cons:
- Limited third-party integrations
- May require support team for assistance with reporting
Genius ERP provides custom manufacturers with tools for estimating, scheduling, inventory control, production planning, and accounting to ensure efficiency.
Why I Picked Genius ERP: I chose Genius ERP for its robust capabilities tailored to custom manufacturers, especially its ability to generate accurate cost-based quotes, ensuring precise and competitive pricing.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include engineering and production management, smart scheduling, inventory management, purchasing, accounting, job costing, sales CRM, and field services.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Salesforce, Shopify, HubSpot, Xero, Magento, WooCommerce, ShipStation, Zapier, and Amazon.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time inventory tracking
- Comprehensive production management
- Accurate cost-based quotes
Cons:
- May need additional training for complex features
- Limited to custom manufacturing
Best for industry-specific ERP solutions in manufacturing and distribution
SYSPRO is an industry-specific ERP solution offering robust data analytics, inventory management, and customization for manufacturing and distribution sectors.
Why I Picked SYSPRO: I chose SYSPRO for its strong focus on industry-specific ERP solutions. Its ability to cater to the unique needs of various manufacturing and distribution sectors makes it the best choice for industry-specific ERP needs.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include robust real-time data analytics, comprehensive inventory management, and customizable ERP solutions tailored to specific industries.
Integrations include Microsoft Office, Salesforce, Shopify, QuickBooks, Sage, Oracle, SAP, Google Analytics, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and IBM Watson.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time data analytics
- Automatic inventory management
- Industry-specific solutions
Cons:
- Limited mobile access
- Certain processes require manual input which can be time-consuming
ERPNext is an open-source ERP offering production planning, shop floor management, and customization to streamline manufacturing processes.
Why I Picked ERPNext: I chose ERPNext for its flexibility and extensive customization options. Its open-source nature allows high adaptability, ideal for unique manufacturing needs.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include production planning and shop floor management, material resource planning (MRP), multilingual support, real-time inventory tracking, and customizable workflows and forms.
Integrations include Shopify, WooCommerce, QuickBooks Online, Xero, Google Calendar, Slack, PayPal, Stripe, Amazon, and Microsoft Outlook.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Multilingual support
- Open-source
- Highly customizable with technical expertise
Cons:
- May require additional modules for full functionality
- Limited out-of-the-box integrations
Acumatica offers cloud-based ERP solutions for the manufacturing industry, enhancing operational efficiency and supporting diverse manufacturing environments.
Why I Picked Acumatica: I chose Acumatica for its robust cloud-based platform that seamlessly integrates various manufacturing processes. Its adaptability and comprehensive feature set cater to diverse manufacturing needs, from engineering to production management.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include flexible production methods, engineering and design tools, advanced planning and scheduling, and support for make-to-stock, make-to-order, engineer-to-order, configure-to-order, repetitive, batch process, and project-driven manufacturing environments.
Integrations include QuickBooks, NetSuite, Sage, Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, Microsoft Dynamics GP, Microsoft Dynamics SL, Microsoft Dynamics NAV, CADLink, MES for Acumatica, and Arena Product Lifecycle Management Integration.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Flexible production methods
- Cloud-based platform
- Comprehensive feature set
Cons:
- Report creation can be complex
- It can be challenging to integrate it with other systems
Other Process Manufacturing ERP Software
Below is a list of additional process manufacturing ERP software that we shortlisted, but did not make it to the top list. Worth checking them out.
- Deskera
Best for all-in-one business software with mobile access
- MRPeasy
Best for small manufacturers needing AI-powered MRP software
- NetSuite
Best for comprehensive financial management
- Oracle ERP
Best for advanced analytics
- Total ETO
Best for engineer-to-order manufacturing
- BatchMaster
Best for flexible production scheduling
- QAD ERP
Best for global manufacturing operations
- Bista
Best for custom ERP solutions
- Microsoft Cloud
Best for integration with Microsoft tools
- Epicor Kinetic
Best for real-time data insights
- WhereFour
Best for traceability and compliance
- IFS
Best for asset management
- Sage X3 ERP
Best for scalability and flexibility
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Selection Criteria For Process Manufacturing ERP Software
Here’s a short summary of the main selection and evaluation criteria I used to develop my list of the best ERP software for manufacturing for this article:
Core Functionality (25% of total weighting score):
- Inventory Management
- Production Planning and Scheduling
- Quality Control
- Compliance Management
- Supply Chain Management
Additional Standout Features (25% of total weighting score):
- Advanced analytics and reporting capabilities
- Integration with IoT devices for real-time monitoring
- Customizable dashboards for different user roles
- AI-driven demand forecasting
- Mobile accessibility for on-the-go management
Usability (10% of total weighting score):
- Intuitive user interface with drag-and-drop functionality
- Role-based access that is easy to configure
- Clear and straightforward navigation
- Customizable workflows
- Responsive design for various devices
Onboarding (10% of total weighting score):
- Availability of comprehensive training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Pre-built templates for quick setup
- Access to webinars for in-depth learning
- Chatbots for instant support during onboarding
Customer Support (10% of total weighting score):
- 24/7 customer service availability
- Dedicated account managers
- Multi-channel support (phone, email, chat)
- Extensive knowledge base and FAQs
- Fast response times and resolution rates
Value For Money (10% of total weighting score):
- Transparent pricing models
- Flexible subscription plans
- Cost-benefit analysis compared to competitors
- Discounts for long-term commitments
- Free trial or demo options
Customer Reviews (10% of total weighting score):
- Overall satisfaction ratings
- Specific feedback on functionality and usability
- Comments on customer support experiences
- Insights on the onboarding process
- Comparative analysis of pros and cons
Using this assessment framework helped me identify the software that goes beyond basic requirements to offer additional value through unique features, intuitive usability, smooth onboarding, effective support, and overall value for price.
Trends For Process Manufacturing ERP Software In 2024
Thinking about upgrading your ERP software or just scouting the field? Staying updated on the latest trends can make all the difference. Process manufacturing ERP software is evolving fast, bringing in features that tackle real industry pain points. Here’s what the trend forecast looks like:
- AI and Machine Learning Integration: AI and machine learning are being integrated into ERP systems. These technologies help in predictive maintenance and demand forecasting. This leads to reduced downtime and better resource planning.
- IoT Connectivity: IoT devices are increasingly connected to ERP systems. This allows real-time data collection from manufacturing equipment. It improves operational efficiency and reduces manual data entry.
- Cloud-Based Solutions: Cloud-based ERP solutions are gaining popularity. They offer scalability and remote access. This is crucial for businesses with multiple locations or remote workforces.
- Advanced Analytics: Advanced analytics tools are being embedded in ERP software. They provide deeper insights into production processes. This helps in making data-driven decisions and improving overall productivity.
- Enhanced Cybersecurity: Cybersecurity features in ERP systems are becoming more robust. This is in response to increasing cyber threats. Protecting sensitive manufacturing data is now a top priority.
Expect to see AI doing more of the heavy lifting, beefed-up security to keep your data safe, and IoT connectivity making everything smarter. These trends are shaping the future of ERP software, so keep an eye out as you navigate your options for the best fit for your business.
What Is Process Manufacturing ERP Software?
Process manufacturing ERP software is a comprehensive tool that manages and integrates all aspects of production processes in industries using formulas or recipes, such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and cosmetics. It centralizes functions like inventory management, production planning, quality control, and supply chain management, optimizing resource use, reducing costs, and improving product quality. This software is essential for production managers, quality assurance teams, and supply chain coordinators who need real-time visibility and control over manufacturing processes.
Features Of Process Manufacturing ERP Software
When choosing the right process manufacturing ERP software, optimizing operations, ensuring compliance, and maintaining product quality are crucial. Process manufacturing involves complex procedures that require specialized ERP features to handle unique challenges. Below are the most important features to look for in process manufacturing ERP software.
- Supports Different Measurement Units: An ERP must support conversion between multiple units of measure throughout various processes. This is essential for accurately managing inventory, purchasing, and sales, ensuring that materials are measured and tracked correctly.
- Ability to Track and Trace Lots: End-to-end traceability from raw materials to finished products is crucial. This feature helps in addressing potential issues or product recalls, thereby mitigating severe repercussions.
- Cost Tracking: ERP software should track the cost of ingredients and calculate the cost per unit based on various factors. This is important for maintaining accurate financial records and managing production costs effectively.
- Adaptability and Customization to New Formulas/Recipes: The system must support the creation and management of new or customized formulas. This ensures that manufacturers can adapt to new product requirements and maintain quality control.
- Management of Co-Products and By-Products: Handling co-products and by-products efficiently is vital. This feature helps in tracking and accounting for the costs of different outputs from a single production run, optimizing resource use.
- Supply Chain Optimization: Maintaining vendor relationships and ensuring the use of quality materials at reasonable prices is critical. This feature guarantees efficient and cost-effective production and distribution.
- Tracking of Shelf Life: Managing inventory based on expiry dates and generating notifications for materials approaching expiration is essential. This helps in reducing waste and ensuring product quality.
- Agile Production Support: Supporting Agile production capabilities allows manufacturers to plan and adjust production schedules as needed. This increases efficiency and optimizes the use of equipment.
- Safety of Trade Secrets: Encrypting data and encoding distinct components in documents like the Bill of Materials ensures the safety of proprietary information. This is crucial for protecting intellectual property.
- Quality Management and Market Compliance: Quality management capabilities and compliance with regulatory requirements are essential. This feature helps manufacturers avoid compliance issues and adapt to changing market demands.
These features help process manufacturers improve business operations, reduce waste, and enhance efficiency. An industry-specific ERP solution supports strict manufacturing standards and ensures timely deliveries.
Benefits Of Process Manufacturing ERP Software
Process manufacturing ERP software streamlines and optimizes complex manufacturing processes. It integrates production, inventory management, quality control, and compliance into one system, providing numerous benefits. Below are five main benefits:
- Improved Visibility: With manufacturing ERP systems, all departments across an entire business can access and view the same consistent and accurate data in real-time. This enables better, smoother coordination and execution of all related processes and procedures, ensuring that everyone from engineering teams to the production floor has complete visibility into designs, production status, quality control, and inventory.
- Increased Efficiency: Process manufacturing ERP software allows firms to track all supply chain activities in great detail from start to finish. This helps identify and correct procedures and processes that hinder productivity, ensuring optimum efficiency. Automated business processes reduce dependence on manual tasks, accelerating production and minimizing errors.
- Enhanced Product Quality: ERP systems make it easier for businesses to monitor product defects and problems, pinpointing exactly where in the design or production process the issue is occurring. This ensures products of the utmost quality, boosting sales, customer satisfaction, and profits. The inclusion of recipe or formula management features allows for consistent batch manufacturing, reducing the risk of manual errors.
- Reduced Costs: Product manufacturing ERP software reduce costs in many ways, including increased worker productivity, enhanced precision in production processes, and better tracking of components and turnover of finished goods. This eliminates costly excess inventory and reduces the cost of goods sold. Real-time data visibility empowers businesses to make cost-effective decisions, minimizing ingredient wastage and optimizing resource allocation.
- Improved Collaboration: Many manufacturing ERP systems enable companies to share important production-related data with internal employees and external partners such as vendors, suppliers, and distributors. This improves communication and coordination of activities among key business partners, ensuring a more integrated and efficient supply chain.
Investing in process manufacturing ERP software transforms operations by improving visibility, efficiency, product quality, cost reduction, and collaboration. These benefits streamline processes, enhance decision-making, and support overall business success, making it an invaluable tool for achieving operational excellence and staying competitive.
Costs & Pricing of Process Manufacturing ERP Software
One of the most important aspects of selecting process manufacturing ERP software is understanding the different pricing plans and features available. These platforms vary widely in terms of features, pricing, and use cases to cater to a range of needs. However, pricing plans for process manufacturing ERP software generally fall into common categories.
This guide helps you navigate options from free plans to enterprise solutions, ensuring you find the best fit for your needs and budget. Being aware of your choices prevents paying for unnecessary features or overpaying for standard ones.
Below is a table summarizing plan types, average prices, and common features:
Plan Comparison Table for Process Manufacturing ERP Software
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
| Free | $0 | Basic inventory management, order processing, and limited user support |
| Basic | $60/user/month | Inventory management, batch production, costing, and basic reporting |
| Standard | $175/user/month | Advanced inventory management, production scheduling, quality control, and CRM tools |
| Professional | $300/user/month | Comprehensive financial management, SCM, HRM, multi-site support, and compliance management |
| Enterprise | $500/user/month | Full suite of ERP modules, advanced analytics, AI integration, and global support |
Each plan caters to different needs. Free plans are ideal for individuals or small teams, while paid plans offer advanced features and scalability for growing businesses. Always consider your team's size, project complexity, and budget when choosing a plan. Starting with a free or basic plan is often a good idea to get a sense of the tool before committing to a larger investment.
When choosing a plan, consider both immediate needs and potential future requirements to ensure the software can scale with your operations. By carefully evaluating pricing plans and feature sets, you can select a process manufacturing ERP software that meets your current and future needs while matching your budget.
Process Manufacturing ERP Software FAQs
Here are some commonly asked questions about process manufacturing ERP software.
How does process manufacturing ERP software improve efficiency?
Process manufacturing ERP software improves efficiency by automating and integrating various business processes. This includes streamlining production planning, inventory management, quality control, and compliance tracking. By providing real-time data and analytics, it helps manufacturers make informed decisions, reduce waste, and optimize resource utilization.
Can process manufacturing ERP software help with regulatory compliance?
Yes, process manufacturing ERP software can significantly aid in regulatory compliance. It provides tools for tracking and documenting compliance with industry standards and regulations. Features such as audit trails, quality control checks, and batch traceability ensure that manufacturers can meet regulatory requirements and maintain high standards of product quality.
What industries benefit the most from process manufacturing ERP software?
Industries benefiting the most from process manufacturing ERP software include food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and cosmetics. These sectors use ERP software for managing recipes, ensuring compliance with regulations, handling hazardous materials, tracking batches, and maintaining quality control. ERP systems aid food and beverage companies in managing recipes and ensuring food safety, help pharmaceutical firms comply with regulations and manage formulations, enable the chemical industry to handle hazardous materials and ensure safety, and assist cosmetics companies in managing product formulations and quality control.
How does process manufacturing ERP software handle inventory management?
Process manufacturing ERP software handles inventory management by providing real-time tracking of raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods. It helps manufacturers maintain optimal inventory levels, reduce stockouts, and minimize excess inventory. The software also supports lot and batch tracking, ensuring traceability and quality control throughout the production process.
What are the benefits of integrating process manufacturing ERP software with other business systems?
Integrating process manufacturing ERP software with other business systems, such as customer relationship management (CRM) and supply chain management (SCM), offers several benefits. It enables seamless data flow across different departments, improves collaboration, and enhances overall business visibility. This integration helps manufacturers respond more quickly to market demands, improve customer satisfaction, and achieve better operational efficiency.
What is the implementation time for ERP software?
Implementation time varies based on company size and complexity. Generally, it can take from a few months to a year. Proper planning and resource allocation can expedite the process.
What kind of support is available for ERP software?
Most ERP providers offer comprehensive support, including training, technical assistance, and customer service. Support can be accessed via phone, email, or online portals. This ensures smooth operation and quick resolution of issues.
What kind of training is required for ERP software?
Training typically includes user education on software functionalities, processes, and best practices. Providers often offer training sessions, online tutorials, and documentation. Comprehensive training ensures users can effectively utilize the ERP system.
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