20 Best ERP Software for Small Businesses Reviewed in 2024
Best ERP Software for Small Businesses Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 20 tools reviewed.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
Choosing the best enterprise resource planning (ERP) software for small businesses can be a daunting task given the variety of options available. You want to streamline your operations, boost productivity, and find software that can continuously grow with you.
Using my extensive experience in financial and digital management, I researched, tested, and reviewed several ERP software so you don’t have to. Regardless of your industry, rest assured that you’ll find your next solution in this article.
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Best ERP Software for Small Business Summary
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Cin7 Core | From $349/month | Website |
| NetSuite | Pricing upon request | Website |
| SAP Business One | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Zoho Creator | From $10/user/month (billed annually) + $20 base fee per month | Website |
| ERPNext | From $50/month (unlimited users) | Website |
| Dolibarr | Free to use | Website |
| QuickBooks Enterprise | From $1,922 (billed annually) | Website |
| Priority | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Odoo | From $24.90/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Genius ERP | 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 ERP Software for Small Businesses
Selecting the right ERP software for your small business is important for streamlining operations and fostering growth. As you work through your unique software selection process, keep the following points in mind:
- Identify Business Requirements: Many small businesses struggle with disjointed processes and data silos. Your chosen ERP system should address specific business needs by integrating functions such as finance, HR, sales, and inventory management into a single platform to streamline operations and reduce manual errors.
- Budget and Resources: Small businesses often operate with limited financial resources and can’t overspend on software. As a result, establishing a clear budget can help narrow down ERP platform options that are financially viable. When shopping for software, consider upfront costs, profitability, and ongoing expenses such as maintenance, support, and potential customizations.
- Scalability and Future Growth: As businesses grow, their software needs evolve, and your ERP system must be able to scale accordingly. Make sure to choose an ERP that can grow with your business, offering scalability in user capacity, functionality, and integration capabilities.
- Integration with Existing Systems: SMBs often use multiple software systems that work together seamlessly, making it vital for your ERP system to integrate with existing software solutions. This is important for maintaining operational efficiency and data accuracy.
- User Support and Training: Implementing a new ERP system can be challenging for employees accustomed to existing processes. It’s important to ensure that your chosen ERP vendor provides adequate training resources and ongoing support to help employees adapt to the new system.
Best ERP Software for Small Business Reviews
My in-depth analysis provides overviews of each ERP software for small businesses. Below, we’ll review the pros and cons, key features, and best use cases for each software.
Cin7 is an inventory management solution that helps businesses manage and automate their inventory across multiple channels. It integrates seamlessly with various sales channels, providing real-time visibility and control over inventory.
Why I picked Cin7: Cin7 provides users with multi-channel inventory management capabilities. It has extensive integration options and real-time inventory tracking. Additionally, it allows businesses to connect and manage their inventory across different sales channels, reducing errors and improving efficiency. It also integrates various business processes such as inventory management, sales, purchasing, warehouse management, production, and accounting into a unified system.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include automated workflows, a B2B portal, material requirements planning, 3PL integrations, and comprehensive reporting and forecasting tools.
Integrations include Amazon, eBay, Shopify, WooCommerce, Xero, QuickBooks, Salesforce, Magento, BigCommerce, and Square.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong inventory and order management
- Integrates with multiple sales channels
- Automates manual workflows effectively
Cons:
- Initial learning curve
- Customization options could be more robust
NetSuite is a comprehensive cloud-based ERP software that integrates various business management functions into a single platform.
Why I picked NetSuite: For small businesses, NetSuite is particularly useful for providing a centralized view of all data across different departments, from operations to accounting and financial planning. The software also automates various repetitive tasks, such as payroll processing, invoicing, and order management, which reduces the likelihood of errors and frees up employee time for more strategic activities.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include CRM, scheduling and planning, marketing tools, global business management, inventory management, invoicing, billing, and professional services automation (PSA).
Integrations include Shopify, BigCommerce, Adobe Commerce, WooCommerce, Amazon Seller Central, Amazon Vendor Central, eBay, Walmart, Salesforce, and ShipStation.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Good automation features
- Highly customizable with various modules
- Can scale as your business grows
Cons:
- Customization options may come with added expenses
- Extensive features can be overwhelming
SAP Business One is an ERP software that excels in small business management by offering a customizable, all-in-one solution that integrates vital business processes.
Why I picked SAP Business One: SAP Business One offers several flexible and powerful features, including accounting, financials, purchasing, inventory sales, CRM, and analytics. Its scalability and ease of use ensure that small businesses can efficiently manage their operations and grow without needing multiple disparate systems. Additionally, SAP's strong support and continuous updates provide reliability and future-proofing for small enterprises.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include integrated business intelligence, financial management, customer relationship management, inventory and production management, purchasing and procurement, reporting and analytics, project management, mobility support, multi-currency support, and customizable dashboards.
Integrations include SAP HANA, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Outlook, Shopify, Magento, WooCommerce, Salesforce, QuickBooks, PayPal, and Stripe.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Scalable for growing small businesses
- Strong financial and inventory management features
- Comprehensive business management tools integrated
Cons:
- Limited customization without technical expertise
- Can be complex to implement
Zoho Creator focuses on addressing the limitations of traditional ERP systems. It’s a low-code custom ERP solution that allows businesses to build, manage, automate, and integrate their business with no coding.
Why I picked Zoho Creator: Zoho Creator offers a unique low-code platform that simplifies the creation of custom ERP solutions. Unlike traditional ERP systems, Zoho Creator enables businesses to develop tailored solutions without extensive coding knowledge. It empowers users to create highly customized systems quickly and cost-effectively.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include advanced visual workflow editors, seamless data migration, and enterprise-grade data-driven decision capabilities.
Integrations include the Zoho ecosystem, Google Workspace, Microsoft Office 365, Salesforce, QuickBooks, PayPal, Stripe, Twilio, Zapier, Dropbox, and Slack.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong integration with third-party tools
- Affordable pricing for small businesses
- Customizable workflows for diverse business needs
Cons:
- Requires technical skills for advanced customization
- Limited offline capabilities
ERPNext is a free cloud ERP software that helps small businesses manage their operations. It’s a cost-effective, versatile, and powerful ERP solution without licensing fees.
Why I picked ERPNext: ERPNext’s powerful features and open-source model allows extensive customization and community-driven improvements. It provides small businesses with a strong ERP solution, comprehensive function, and customization without the high costs.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include modules for financial accounting, order management, HR and payroll, manufacturing, CRM, projects, helpdesk, asset management, and website management.
Integrations include Google Calendar, Slack, Shopify, WooCommerce, PayPal, Stripe, Amazon MWS, Dropbox, Google Drive, and Microsoft OneDrive.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Active community for support and development
- Highly customizable for diverse industries
- Open-source with no licensing fees
Cons:
- Can be complex for non-technical users
- Limited official customer support options
Dolibarr is an open-source ERP software for small businesses that allows users to enable the features they only need, making it highly customizable and adaptable to various business requirements.
Why I picked Dolibarr: Dolibarr’s flexibility and open-source model allow extensive customization without coding. It offers a low-code Module Builder for easy customization and an ecosystem of external add-ons. Additionally, Dolibarr's active community and regular updates keep the system robust and up-to-date with the latest features and security enhancements.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include customer relationship management, sales, human resources, logistics, stock management, invoicing, accounting, and manufacturing.
Integrations include PayPal, Stripe, Google Calendar, Google Contacts, Google Drive, Dropbox, Mailchimp, WooCommerce, Prestashop, and Magento.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Active community support
- Wide range of modules available
- Free and open-source ERP software
Cons:
- User interface may be outdated
- Limited official customer support
QuickBooks Enterprise is an all-in-one ERP software solution for small and large businesses that provides accounting and business management tools that streamline various business functions into one platform.
Why I picked QuickBooks Enterprise: QuickBooks Enterprise combines inventory, pricing, and reporting features with payroll and time tracking in a single platform. Its user-friendly interface and cloud-based platform make it accessible and easy to use for businesses of all sizes. Additionally, QuickBooks' extensive ecosystem of apps and integrations allows for seamless connectivity with other business tools, enhancing overall efficiency and productivity.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include advanced reporting, inventory management, pricing controls, and payroll integration. It also offers cloud access, field service management, and mobile time tracking.
Integrations include Salesforce CRM, Webgility, Microsoft Office, Google Maps, UPS, FedEx, USPS, and Intuit Field Service Management.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Scalable with various pricing tiers
- Strong financial reporting and analytics
- User-friendly interface for non-accountants
Cons:
- Limited integration with non-Intuit products
- Limited advanced manufacturing features
Priority offers an ERP solution to support various industries with agile and scalable cloud-based functionalities. It’s a highly flexible software that meets specific business requirements and is adaptive to market changes and business growth.
Why I picked Priority: Priority offers a flexible, user-friendly platform that can easily adapt to changing business needs. Its cloud-based infrastructure ensures seamless scalability and accessibility, allowing businesses to grow without worrying about infrastructure limitations.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include financial management, CRM, supply chain management, project management, and mobile ERP.
Integrations include Salesforce, Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, Shopify, Magento, QuickBooks, PayPal, Stripe, Amazon, and eBay.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong support and training resources
- Flexible and customizable modules
- Comprehensive suite of business management tools
Cons:
- Limited third-party integrations
- Requires time for full implementation
Odoo is an open-source ERP and CRM software for small businesses that offers finance, sales, websites, supply chain, human resources, marketing, services, and productivity applications.
Why I picked Odoo: Odoo’s open-source business applications cater to a wide range of business functions. It offers flexibility, customization options, and a library of community-developed apps that allow businesses to tailor the software to their needs. Odoo is best for open-source business apps due to its extensive library of over 40,000 community-developed apps, making it highly customizable and adaptable to various business needs.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include accounting and financial management, customer relationship management, inventory management, manufacturing and production planning, human resources management, project management, sales and purchase management, marketing automation, e-commerce integration, and a customizable and modular architecture.
Integrations include Google Drive, Slack, PayPal, eBay, Amazon, QuickBooks, WooCommerce, Shopify, Magento, and Microsoft Office 365.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- User-friendly with an intuitive interface
- Integrated eCommerce and CRM features
- Highly customizable with modular design
Cons:
- Limited support for non-enterprise users
- Requires technical knowledge for customization
Genius ERP is a specialized ERP system for custom manufacturers, offering solutions for production, inventory, and financial operations.
Why I picked Genius ERP: Genius ERP can handle complex production processes and integrate seamlessly with engineering tools essential for handling high-variable and multi-stage production processes. It’s the best choice for custom manufacturers because it provides specialized tools for managing custom orders, from quoting and engineering to production and delivery.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include job costing and quoting, production planning and scheduling, inventory management, shop floor control, customer relationship management, supply chain management, financial management, purchasing and procurement, real-time reporting and analytics, and seamless integration with other business systems.
Integrations include QuickBooks, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Project, Microsoft Dynamics, Sage, Salesforce, Dropbox, Google Drive, and Shopify.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Advanced engineering integrations
- Effective job costing and inventory management
- Strong production planning and scheduling tools
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve for new users
- Limited third-party software integrations
Other ERP Software for Small Businesses
Below is a list of additional ERP software for small businesses that I shortlisted. While they didn’t make the top 10, they’re still valuable and worth further research.
- Deltek
Best for project-based industry solutions
- Unit4
Best for people-centered ERP solutions
- Sage Intacct
Best for advanced financial management
- Epicor
Best for manufacturing and distribution
- Acumatica
Best for flexible deployment options
- Wrike
Best for project management
- Deskera
Best for integrated CRM and ERP
- Versa Cloud ERP
Best for inventory management
- SYSPRO ERP
Best for scalable solutions
- Wave Accounting
Best for free accounting tools
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 Software for Small Businesses Selection Criteria
Selecting ERP software for small businesses requires a focus on functionality and meeting specific use cases that matter most. The criteria relate to specific software buyer needs, addressing pain points, and the intended use of the software. Here are the key criteria based on my personal experience and research:
Core Functionality: 25% of Total Weighting Score
- Track and manage inventory levels, orders, sales, and deliveries
- Handle financial transactions, general ledger, accounts payable, and receivable
- Manage customer interactions, sales pipeline, and customer service
- Manage employee records, payroll, benefits, and performance
- Automate order entry, processing, and fulfillment
Additional Standout Features: 25% of Total Weighting Score
- Ability to tailor the software to specific business needs
- Seamless integration with other business tools and platforms
- Access to ERP functionalities via mobile devices
- In-depth analytics, forecasting tools, and reporting features
- Tools that leverage AI for predictive analytics and process automation
Usability: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- User-friendly design that is easy to navigate
- Simplifies tasks such as scheduling and resource allocation
- Easy configuration of user roles and permissions
- Ensures usability across different devices and screen sizes
Onboarding: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- Availability of comprehensive training materials
- Guided tours to help users understand features
- Pre-built templates to speed up setup
- Support for real-time assistance and learning
Customer Support: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- Availability of round-the-clock customer service
- Options for phone, email, and live chat support
- Access to a comprehensive library of help articles and FAQs
- Personalized support for business-specific needs
Value For Money: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- Clear and upfront pricing without hidden fees
- Pricing models that accommodate business growth
- Availability of trial periods to test the software
- Evaluation of features relative to cost
Customer Reviews: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- High ratings and positive feedback from users
- Specific feedback on key features and functionalities
- User experiences with customer support
- Insights into the software's reliability and performance
The right ERP implementation will not only streamline your operations but also support your growth and adaptability in an ever-changing market. By carefully considering these selection criteria, you can identify the ERP software that best aligns with your small business's needs and objectives.
Trends for ERP Software for Small Businesses
ERP systems for small businesses are evolving rapidly. Here are some key trends to watch for in the coming years:
- AI and Machine Learning Integration: AI and machine learning are becoming integral to ERP systems as they help automate routine tasks and provide predictive analytics. This trend is important for improving decision-making and efficiency.
- Cloud-Based Solutions: Cloud-based ERP solutions are gaining popularity because they offer scalability and reduce the need for on-premises infrastructure. This is vital for small businesses looking to minimize costs.
- Mobile Accessibility: ERP systems are increasingly mobile-friendly. This allows business owners and employees to access data on the go, enhancing flexibility and responsiveness.
- Customization and Flexibility: Modern ERP software offers more customization options. Small businesses can tailor the software to their specific needs. This trend is significant for improving user experience and functionality.
- Enhanced Data Security: Data security features in ERP systems are becoming stronger. This includes advanced encryption and multi-factor authentication, which are vital for protecting sensitive business information.
Staying aware of the latest trends in ERP software is important for small businesses seeking to maintain a competitive edge. By leveraging these advancements, your small business can achieve greater agility and sustained growth in today's dynamic market.
What is ERP Software for Small Businesses?
Small business owners and managers use ERP software to manage daily operations such as accounting, human resources, sales, marketing, and data security. This software helps users automate manual tasks, ensure data integrity, and provide real-time visibility into business operations, enabling informed decision-making and efficient resource management.
Features of ERP Software for Small Businesses
ERP software for small businesses typically includes several key components that work together to provide a unified view of the business. These components include:
- Accounting and Financial Management: Manages financial activities such as accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger, budgeting, and financial reporting.
- Human Resources (HR): Streamlines HR tasks like recruitment, hiring, employee management, performance evaluation, and payroll processing.
- Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Collects and analyzes customer data to improve interactions, automate processes, and enhance customer satisfaction.
- Business Intelligence (BI): Analyzes large volumes of data to provide real-time insights and support decision-making.
- Supply Chain Management (SCM): Tracks the movement of materials and goods throughout the supply chain, from procurement to delivery.
- Manufacturing and Logistics Management: Manages production runs, product assembly, quality assurance, and distribution.
- Inventory Management: Optimizes inventory levels, minimizes excess stock, and provides visibility into item quantities and locations.
- Warehouse Management: Streamlines the organization, storage, and movement of products within a warehouse.
These components are designed to work together seamlessly, providing an advanced and integrated solution for managing core business processes. By investing in an ERP solution tailored to their needs, small businesses can enhance productivity, reduce operational costs, and position themselves for scalable growth.
Benefits of ERP Software for Small Businesses
By integrating various business processes into a single system, ERP software provides numerous advantages that can significantly enhance the performance and competitiveness of small businesses. These advantages include:
- Improved Efficiency: ERP software automates routine tasks and workflows, reducing errors caused by manual practices and improving business process efficiency. This automation allows employees to focus on more strategic tasks, enhancing overall productivity.
- Better Data Access and Quality: With ERP software, businesses can access all critical processes and pieces of data. This centralized database ensures faster communication, accurate reporting, and informed decision-making, which are important for the growth and success of small businesses.
- Cost Savings: Cloud-based ERP solutions eliminate the need for additional hardware, IT staff, maintenance, and upgrades, significantly reducing operating costs. By consolidating various software systems, businesses can save on software licensing fees and IT management costs.
- Enhanced Customer Service: ERP systems improve customer service by providing better tracking, streamlined processes, and more customer insights. This allows businesses to personalize interactions, reduce order errors, and ensure timely deliveries, leading to customer satisfaction and loyalty.
- Scalability: ERP systems are modular, allowing small businesses to implement only the functionalities they need at a given time. As the business grows, additional modules can be easily integrated, ensuring that the ERP system scales with the business without requiring a complete overhaul.
ERP software offers small businesses a strong solution for managing their operations more effectively. With ERP tools, businesses can improve efficiency, data access, cost savings, customer service, and scalability, leading to significant improvements in performance and long-term success.
Costs & Pricing of ERP Software for Small Businesses
Costs and pricing options for ERP software can vary significantly based on the features, number of users, and deployment methods. Below is an overview of the different ERP software plans available for small businesses, including their average prices and common features.
Plan Comparison Table for ERP Software for Small Businesses
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
| Free | $0 | Basic accounting, inventory management, CRM, and open-source customization |
| Basic | $50/user/month | Financial management, basic inventory control, order management, and basic reporting |
| Standard | $100/user/month | Advanced inventory management, CRM, HR, project management, and analytics |
| Premium | $200/user/month | Full suite of ERP modules, AI and ML capabilities, advanced analytics, and IoT |
| Enterprise | Custom pricing | Tailored features, industry-specific modules, and extensive customization |
When selecting an ERP software plan, small business buyers should consider their specific operational needs, budget constraints, and the scalability of the solution. Each plan offers different features and pricing, so it is essential to choose one that aligns with the business's current and future goals.
ERP Software for Small Businesses FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions I’ve received about ERP software for small businesses.
Can ERP software be customized to fit the specific needs of a small business?
Yes, many ERP software solutions offer customization options to fit the specific needs of a small business. Customization can include modifying workflows, adding specific modules, or integrating with other business tools. However, extensive customization may increase the cost and complexity of the implementation.
How long does it take to implement ERP software in a small business?
The implementation time for ERP software in a small business can vary depending on the complexity of the business processes and the level of customization required. On average, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Proper planning, training, and support are essential for a smooth implementation process.
How can small businesses ensure a successful ERP software implementation?
Small businesses should start with thorough planning and needs assessment to ensure a successful ERP software implementation. Involve key stakeholders in the decision-making process, choose a solution that aligns with business goals, and allocate sufficient resources for training and support. Regularly monitor the implementation progress and be prepared to make adjustments as needed.
What are the challenges of using ERP software?
Challenges include high initial costs and complex implementation, users may face a steep learning curve, customization may require technical skills, and ongoing maintenance and updates are necessary.
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