Manufacturing businesses are continually looking for methods to streamline their operations and improve their production processes in today’s fast-paced business environment. Demand for Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software solutions that can assist in organizing corporate processes and boost productivity is rising as the industrial sector expands.
ERP Vendor Update: Industrial Equipment Manufacturing
The ERP Vendor Update offers a close-up look at 10 of today’s top IEM software solutions.
ERP for Manufacturers
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, understanding how ERP can revolutionize your manufacturing process is crucial.
1. The Power of ERP
The manufacturing landscape is continually evolving, and keeping up with the pace can be challenging. Here’s where ERP steps in. ERP integrates various aspects of your manufacturing operations into a single, cohesive system.
From supply chain management, inventory control, and production planning to sales, customer relationship management, and financials, an ERP system acts as the nerve center, streamlining your entire manufacturing process. With real-time data at your fingertips, you can make informed decisions, optimize operations, and drive productivity.
2. Tailored to Manufacturing Needs
Unlike generic ERP solutions, ERP for manufacturing is specifically designed to meet the unique challenges faced by the manufacturing industry. They offer a suite of features that address critical manufacturing processes, ensuring seamless operations and improved efficiency.
Here are some key functionalities offered by ERP for manufacturing:
a. Material Requirements Planning (MRP): Stay ahead of the game with accurate demand forecasting, inventory control, and procurement management. Effective materials management allows you to reduce stockouts and cut excess stock, while improving production efficiency and reducing inventory carrying costs.
b. Production Planning and Scheduling: Automate your production schedules, optimize resource allocation, and keep a close eye on capacity utilization within one system.
c. Quality Control: With an ERP for manufacturing, you can establish standardized quality control processes, track product defects, manage corrective actions, and ensure consistent delivery of high-quality products.
d. Shop Floor Control: Monitor real-time production data, identify bottlenecks, streamline workflows, and make data-driven decisions to keep your shop floor producing.
e. Supply Chain Management (SCM): From procurement to distribution, ERP for manufacturing helps you navigate the complexities of your supply chain. Reduce lead times, optimize inventory levels, improve supplier collaboration, and deliver on time.
3. Benefits: What’s in it for Manufacturers?
Let’s explore the benefits that ERP brings to manufacturing industries:
a. Enhanced Efficiency: ERP streamlines your operations, reduces manual interventions, minimizes errors, and boosts overall efficiency. With centralized data and integrated business processes, collaboration becomes seamless, enabling teams to work cohesively and achieve more.
b. Improved Inventory Management: Say goodbye to stockouts and excess stock. ERP empowers you to optimize inventory levels, reduce carrying costs, and improve cash flow by ensuring you have the right inventory at the right time.
c. Real-Time Insights: With ERP, you have visibility into your processes. Real-time data and analytics enable you to identify patterns, pinpoint bottlenecks, and make well-informed decisions at every stage of the production cycle.
d. Cost Savings: By optimizing inventory, reducing waste, minimizing downtime, and improving resource allocation, ERP paves the way for significant cost savings.
e. Enhanced Customer Relationships: With a robust ERP system in place, you can provide accurate order information and streamline customer service.
4. Choosing the Right ERP for Manufacturing
Here are a few key factors to consider for finding a new manufacturing ERP system for your business:
a. Industry-Specific Functionality: Ensure the ERP system you choose caters to the unique needs of your company, with features tailored to your specific requirements.
b. Scalability: As your business grows, your ERP system should be able to keep up. Look for solutions that offer scalability and flexibility to accommodate future expansions and changing needs.
c. Integration Capabilities: Seamless integration with existing systems, such as CRM platforms, accounting software, and e-commerce platforms, is vital to ensure smooth operations and data consistency.
d. User-Friendliness: A user-friendly interface and intuitive navigation are essential for easy adoption and maximum utilization across your organization.
Overview of the Top Manufacturing ERP Systems
ERP systems developed as a way for manufacturers to have greater oversight and control of their businesses. A manufacturing business can increase productivity, boost profits and keep a competitive edge with the correct manufacturing ERP system in place. Because there are so many different manufacturing ERP system options on the market, from smaller vendors like Global Shop Solutions to the giant SAP S/4HANA among others, selecting the top manufacturing ERP systems can be challenging. At Ultra Consultants, we’ve chosen 10 of the top ERP systems for Manufacturers in this blog, in no particular order of ERP vendors.
SAP
Oracle
Microsoft D365
Infor CSI
Epicor
Oracle Netsuite
Plex
Syspro
IQMS
Acumatica
1. SAP S/4HANA
SAP S/4HANA is considered one of the best manufacturing ERP systems available today. SAP S/4HANA is a next-generation ERP system developed by SAP SE, a German software corporation. It is a successor to the SAP ERP system, and it is designed to run on the SAP HANA in-memory database, which enables real-time data processing and analytics.
In addition, SAP Business One, another popular ERP platform developed by SAP, is a great choice for small to medium-sized manufacturing businesses, offering features such as inventory management, production planning, financial management and sales and customer management. SAP Business is a popular ERP system for manufacturers due to its robust functionality, flexibility and scalability. It offers real-time data processing, integrated analytics and a user-friendly interface.
Key Features of SAP S/4HANA (SAP Business)
Real-time analytics
SAP S/4HANA’s in-memory computing allows businesses to access real-time data analytics, enabling them to make informed decisions quickly.
Streamlined processes
The system simplifies and streamlines operations and automates core business processes, resulting in improved efficiency and productivity.
Enhanced user experience
SAP S/4HANA’s intuitive user interface offers a modern and user-friendly experience, including mobile software for manufacturing, making it easier for employees to interact with the system.
Integrated platform
The SAP Business system provides a single platform for managing all enterprise resources, enabling seamless collaboration and data sharing across departments.
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2. Oracle Cloud ERP
Oracle ERP Cloud is also considered to be one of the best manufacturing ERP systems available today. Oracle Corporation created Oracle ERP Cloud, a cloud-based manufacturing ERP software solution. This ERP software solution provides a full range of capabilities tailored specifically for the manufacturing industry, including SCM, production planning and quality control. Because of its scalability and versatility, its cloud-based platform is a suitable fit for manufacturing companies of all sizes.
This cloud ERP software is designed to offer companies one of the best manufacturing ERP software integrated platforms to help organize core manufacturing processes and boost efficiency. It can also be modified to match the unique requirements of each business. It is a powerful tool that can help businesses manage their operations more efficiently and effectively.
Key Features of Oracle ERP Cloud
Financial Management
It offers a comprehensive suite of financial regulation tools, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, cash management and fixed assets management.
Procurement
Its procurement module automates the entire procurement process, from supplier management and sourcing to purchase orders, warehouse management and invoicing.
Project Management
Its project management module provides tools for project planning, resource allocation, project tracking, financial regulation and shop floor operations.
Supply Chain Management (SCM)
Its SCM module offers tools for management of inventory, order management and supply chain planning.
Human Capital Management
Its human capital management module includes tools for recruiting, on-boarding, employee management, payroll, benefits and performance management.
Analytics
It provides built-in analytics capabilities that enable users to create reports and dashboards to gain insights into their manufacturing operations.
3. Microsoft Dynamics 365 For Finance and Operations
Microsoft Dynamics 365 offers a complete set of functions for project control and management, supply chain management, financial regulation and more. By automating vital business procedures and offering real-time insights into company performance, Microsoft Dynamics 365 enables firms to optimize their operations.
A cloud-hosted solution, Microsoft Dynamics 365 may be used from any location and on any device. It is a powerful manufacturing ERP for businesses looking to streamline their operations and improve their bottom line, particularly with respect to their supply chain processes.
Key Features of Dynamics 365 for Finance and Operations
Financial management
Microsoft Dynamics offers a range of financial regulation features such as accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger and financial reporting.
Supply chain and manufacturing management software
Microsoft Dynamics 365 includes manufacturing management features such as inventory management of raw materials, demand forecasting, procurement and logistics.
Human resources
These manufacturing ERP systems include features such as employee self-service, payroll management, benefits administration and compliance management.
Project management
With in-depth project control and management features such as project planning, this module also includes resource management, shop floor control and project accounting.
Business intelligence
Microsoft Dynamics 365 provides real-time analytics and insights into business performance, allowing businesses to make informed decisions.
4. Infor CloudSuite Industrial
Infor CloudSuite Industrial is heralded as one of the best manufacturing ERP solutions available in the market today. It is a cloud-based ERP system solution designed specifically for manufacturing companies and distribution companies. Formerly known as SyteLine, it provides users with a comprehensive set of tools to manage core business functions of their operations, including financial regulation, SCM, management of inventory, production management, quality management and ensure regulatory compliance.
One of the key benefits of Infor CloudSuite Industrial is its scalability. The solution can be customized to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes, from small manufacturers to large multinational corporations. Infor CloudSuite Industrial is a powerful manufacturing ERP software system solution that can help manufacturing and distribution companies streamline operations and improve their bottom line.
Key Features of Infor CloudSuite Industrial
Customizable user interface
Infor CloudSuite Industrial offers a highly customizable user interface that allows users to personalize their dashboards and access the information they need quickly and easily.
Robust manufacturing capabilities
Infor CloudSuite Industrial provides robust manufacturing software capabilities, including planning, scheduling, production and control of quality of raw materials. The manufacturing solution also supports various manufacturing modes, including make-to-order, make-to-stock, configure-to-order and engineer-to-order.
Inventory management
The solution provides real-time management of inventory capabilities that enable businesses to optimize their inventory levels and reduce costs.
Supply chain management (SCM)
Infor CloudSuite Industrial supports end-to-end SCM, including procurement, manufacturing process, order management and logistics. The solution helps businesses streamline their supply chain and customer demand processes and improve their efficiency.
Financial management
The solution provides comprehensive financial regulation capabilities, including accounts payable and receivable, general ledger, fixed assets and cash management.
Analytics and reporting
Infor CloudSuite Industrial offers advanced analytics, data management and reporting capabilities that give manufacturing businesses real-time insights into their manufacturing operations. The solution includes customizable dashboards, reports and data visualizations, making it an ideal manufacturing ERP software for companies seeking to optimize their manufacturing processes.
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5. Epicor ERP
Epicor ERP is a comprehensive enterprise resource planning (ERP) software designed for manufacturing companies, distribution, retail and service industries. It provides end-to-end functionality for managing all aspects of a business, including finance, CRM, supply chain management, management of inventory and management of production.
Epicor’s ERP platform is known for its scalability, flexibility and user-friendly interface, making it suitable for small and medium-sized businesses, as well as large enterprises. Epicor’s cloud-hosted ERP system is available both on-premises and in the cloud, allowing businesses to choose the deployment option that best fits their needs. Epicor ERP is a powerful solution for businesses looking to improve their operations, increase productivity and stay competitive in today’s fast-paced business environment.
Key Features of Epicor ERP
Financial Management
Epicor ERP provides robust financial regulation capabilities, including accounting, budgeting and financial reporting.
Supply Chain Management
Epicor ERP offers end-to-end SCM capabilities to process manufacturers, including management of inventory, procurement and logistics.
Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
Epicor ERP includes CRM features, such as lead and opportunity management, sales forecasting and customer service management and support.
Production Management
Epicor ERP system provides production management tools for manufacturers, including production scheduling, job shops and costing, shop floor management and quality control. It is a comprehensive manufacturing ERP software solution that can help businesses streamline their production processes and improve overall productivity.
Human Capital Management
Epicor ERP includes human capital management (HCM) features, such as payroll, time and attendance management and employee performance management.
Business Intelligence and Analytics
Epicor ERP includes powerful business intelligence and analytics tools that enable businesses to analyze their data and make informed decisions.
Collaboration and Communication
Epicor ERP includes collaboration and communication tools, such as messaging and document sharing, to help teams work more efficiently and effectively.
6. Oracle NetSuite
Founded in 1998 and acquired by Oracle in 2016, NetSuite enjoys its status as one of the top ERP manufacturing systems available. Like many of the other solutions, it is a cloud-hosted ERP system that provides a suite of business applications for managing financials, CRM, e-commerce, inventory, human resources and more. It is a comprehensive, integrated, complete business management platform designed for businesses of all sizes and industries.
The manufacturing software is known for its flexibility and scalability, allowing businesses to customize and adapt the system to their unique needs. It also offers real-time visibility into business operations and supports multiple currencies, languages and subsidiaries. The manufacturing software is also highly customizable and can be integrated with other third-party applications to streamline business processes.
NetSuite is a powerful ERP system solution that helps businesses manage their operations more efficiently and effectively in the cloud. NetSuite’s comprehensive set of features makes it a powerful tool for businesses looking to improve their operations and drive growth.
Key Features of NetSuite
Financial Management
NetSuite offers a suite of financial management and forecasting tools that enable businesses to simplify their financial processes, including accounting, financial planning and analysis and cash management.
Inventory Management
NetSuite’s management of inventory system allows businesses to track inventory levels, monitor inventory movement and manage inventory across multiple locations.
Order Management
NetSuite’s order management system helps businesses manage orders and fulfill customer requests quickly and efficiently.
CRM
Businesses can deliver individualized experiences, boost customer satisfaction and increase revenue thanks to the 360-degree customer perspective offered by NetSuite’s CRM system.
E-commerce
NetSuite’s e-commerce platform enables businesses to build and manage their online stores, including product catalogs, shopping carts and payment processing.
Manufacturing
NetSuite’s manufacturing module is a powerful manufacturing ERP software that enables businesses to manage their production processes, including planning, scheduling and tracking. This module is designed to streamline manufacturing operations and increase productivity for businesses of all sizes.
Project Management
NetSuite’s project control module allows businesses to manage projects, resources, budgets, timelines and shop floor operations in a centralized location.
Reporting and Analytics
NetSuite provides businesses with real-time reporting and analytics capabilities, enabling them to make data-driven decisions and monitor their performance.
7. Plex Manufacturing Cloud
Plex Manufacturing Cloud is recognized as one of the top manufacturing ERP systems available in the market today. It is a cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) software (manufacturing ERP) solution designed specifically for manufacturing companies. With automated software maintenance, it provides manufacturers with a comprehensive suite of tools to manage their entire production process, from planning and scheduling to inventory control, control of quality and financial control.
Plex Manufacturing Cloud offers a modular approach, allowing users to choose the modules they need now, with the option to scale up or down as their business requirements change. One of the key benefits of Plex Manufacturing Cloud is its ability to integrate with other business systems, such as CRM and SCM and manufacturing software systems, to provide a holistic view of operations across the entire organization.
Plex Manufacturing Cloud is a powerful tool for manufacturers looking to streamline their operations, improve efficiency and gain better visibility into their production processes. Plex Manufacturing Cloud enterprise resource planning is a comprehensive manufacturing ERP solution that offers a wide range of features designed to help manufacturers optimize their operations to improve their bottom line.
Key Features of Plex Manufacturing Cloud ERP
Manufacturing Execution System (MES)
Plex MES is an advanced ERP for manufacturing that allows manufacturers to monitor and control their production processes in real-time. This feature enables manufacturers to optimize their production machinery, reducing waste and increasing efficiency. With its powerful capabilities, Plex MES is a great solution for manufacturing companies looking to improve their production processes and increase profitability.
Supply Chain Management (SCM)
Plex SCM provides end-to-end visibility across the entire supply chain, enabling manufacturers to manage their inventory, procurement and logistics processes more efficiently.
Quality Management
Plex ERP includes a robust quality control module that enables manufacturers to track and manage quality-related issues, such as non-conformances, corrective actions and customer complaints.
Financial Management
Plex ERP offers a complete suite of financial tools, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable and cash management. These tools assist in smoothing business processes.
Human Capital Management (HCM)
Plex HCM enables manufacturers to manage their workforce more effectively, including tracking employee time and attendance, managing benefits and tracking performance.
Business Intelligence (BI)
Plex ERP includes a powerful business intelligence tool that provides manufacturers with real-time insights into their operations. This feature allows manufacturers to make data-driven decisions that remove the guesswork.
8. SYSPRO
SYSPRO makes an ERP system solution designed for manufacturing and distribution companies. It offers features such as accounting and financial control, inventory control, sales and purchasing management, management of production and CRM. It is known for its robust functionality, flexibility and scalability, making it a popular software choice for manufacturing businesses of all sizes.
This ERP software is highly customizable and can be tailored to meet the specific needs of different industries, such as food and beverage, automotive, electronics and more. SYSPRO is a comprehensive manufacturing ERP system solution that can help businesses improve productivity, reduce costs and make better-informed decisions based on real-time data.
Key Features of SYSPRO's Manufacturing ERP system
Inventory Management
SYSPRO offers management of inventory features that allow businesses to manage their inventory levels, track stock movements and optimize their supply chain.
Financial Management
The software provides financial management tools such as accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger and cash management.
Sales and Purchasing Management
SYSPRO offers features to manage the entire sales and purchasing processes, including quotes, orders, invoicing and payments.
Manufacturing Management
The software provides features to manage manufacturing processes, including production scheduling, work orders, bills of materials and routing.
CRM
SYSPRO offers CRM features that allow businesses to manage customer interactions, track leads and improve customer satisfaction.
Business Intelligence
The software provides advanced reporting and analytics capabilities, enabling businesses to gain valuable insights into their operations and make informed decisions.
Mobility
SYSPRO offers mobile access to its ERP software for manufacturing, allowing employees to access the software from their smartphones or tablets and perform tasks such as checking inventory levels or approving purchase orders.
Cloud Deployment
SYSPRO offers both on-premises and cloud-hosted deployment options, giving businesses flexibility in how they choose to implement and manage their manufacturing ERP system.
9. IQMS
IQMS ERP is an ERP software system that is designed for manufacturers. It offers a wide range of features and functionality to help manufacturers manage their operations more efficiently, including production planning and scheduling, inventory management, control of quality, SCM, financial management and more. It is known for its user-friendly interface, as well as its ability to integrate with other systems and technologies. It is also highly customizable, allowing manufacturers to tailor the system to their specific needs and requirements. IQMS ERP is a comprehensive solution that can help manufacturers streamline their operations, reduce costs and improve their bottom line.
Key Features of IQMS ERP platform
Manufacturing Execution System (MES)
IQMS offers a complete MES that helps to optimize the manufacturing process by providing real-time monitoring of production activities, inventory, quality control and more. With its robust features and capabilities, IQMS is a great choice for businesses operating in the manufacturing industry looking to streamline their operations and improve their bottom line.
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
IQMS provides a complete manufacturing ERP software that enables manufacturers to manage their operations more effectively by automating various processes such as financials, SCM, human resources and more.
Quality Management
IQMS provides a robust control of quality system that helps manufacturers to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, manage quality inspections and maintain product specifications. With the use of this ERP software, manufacturing companies can streamline their quality control processes and optimize their production efficiency.
Supply Chain Management
IQMS provides a SCM system that helps manufacturers to streamline their procurement processes, manage vendor relationships and optimize inventory levels.
Business Supply
IQMS offers a powerful business intelligence and analytics platform that enables manufacturers to make informed decisions by providing insights into key performance indicators (KPIs) such as sales, inventory levels and production efficiency.
Real-time Data Collection
With the use of IQMS, producers may gather and analyze data from a variety of sources, including machines, sensors and manual inputs.
Integration with Third-Party Systems
IQMS provides integration with various third-party systems such as CAD/CAM, CRM and e-commerce platforms to ensure seamless data flow and better business processes.
10. Acumatica Cloud ERP Systems
Acumatica Cloud ERP is a cloud-based ERP system solution that helps businesses manage their financials, distribution, manufacturing, project accounting and CRM activities in a single integrated system. It is designed for mid-sized businesses and offers flexibility regarding deployment options, including public cloud, private cloud and on-premises deployment. It provides a suite of tools for managing financials, customer management, project control and supply chain management.
As an ERP for manufacturing, it can be customized to meet the unique needs of a business and can easily accommodate growth and changes in the business environment. The Acumatica Cloud ERP for manufacturing is a comprehensive solution that provides businesses with all the tools needed to get their organizations running at top efficiency.
Key Features of Acumatica Cloud ERP Systems
Flexibility and scalability
Acumatica’s cloud-based platform allows for easy customization and scalability to meet the unique needs of any business. It can be tailored to fit a wide range of industries, from manufacturing to healthcare.
Integration
Acumatica is designed to integrate with other business systems, such as CRM, accounting and e-commerce, so that data can be easily shared across the organization.
Mobility
Acumatica’s cloud-hosted platform allows users to access the system from anywhere, using any device with an internet connection.
Security
Acumatica has built-in security features, including role-based access control and data encryption, to keep sensitive business information secure.
Business intelligence
Acumatica includes a powerful suite of business intelligence tools, including dashboards and reports, to help users gain insights into their business operations.
Collaboration
Acumatica’s platform includes tools for collaboration and communication, such as project management and task tracking, to improve and productivity.
Multi-currency and multi-language support
Acumatica supports multiple currencies and languages, making it ideal for businesses that operate globally or have international customers and suppliers.
Automated processes
Acumatica includes features for automating repetitive processes, such as financial reporting and management of inventory, to save time and reduce errors.
Conclusion
Selecting the right manufacturing ERP system is crucial for the success of any manufacturing company. Specific software for manufacturing can make a significant difference in your business.
In the rapidly evolving manufacturing landscape, ERP offers a solution to boost efficiency, streamline operations, and drive growth. With ERP for manufacturing, you can harness the power of real-time insights, optimize resource allocation, and keep your competitive edge.
Choosing the right ERP system for your manufacturing business can be a tricky process. With so many manufacturing ERP systems available on the market, it can be challenging to make the right decision.
At Ultra, our careful and thorough methodology provides an experienced framework so that manufacturers like you can find the right manufacturing ERP software that suits your specific needs, streamlines operations and helps you achieve your business goals. The best ERP systems for manufacturing for your business will depend on your specific needs, so it typically makes sense to partner with an expert manufacturing ERP consultant who can not only save you time but save you money as you work to discover the best ERP system for your manufacturing company.
When you’re ready for that first conversation, we’re right here to help with selection, implementation and value realization—for an ERP project that yields results.
ERP Software for Manufacturing:
Frequently Asked Questions
An ERP system is a software solution that integrates business processes within an organization, bringing together departments like finance, inventory management, production planning. For manufacturers, a manufacturing ERP software solution offers real-time visibility, efficient inventory management, streamlined production planning, accurate forecasting, and improved customer service. ERP solutions are a great option for both small manufacturing companies and large manufacturing organizations, complex manufacturing processes, discrete and process manufacturing.
If you find yourself struggling with manual processes, disconnected systems, data duplication, lack of visibility, and inefficient decision-making, it might be the perfect time to consider manufacturing ERP software. Understanding your business pain points and goals will help you identify the areas where an ERP can bring the most benefit.
While the specific requirements may vary depending on your business, some essential factors to consider include:
– Industry-specific functionality: Ensure the ERP system offers features tailored to the unique needs of the manufacturing industry.
– Scalability: Look for a solution that can grow with your business, accommodating future expansion and technological advancements.
– Integration capabilities: Check if the manufacturing ERP software seamlessly integrates with your existing software, machinery, and equipment.
– User-friendly interface: A system that is easy to navigate and requires minimal training will accelerate user adoption and minimize disruptions.
– ERP Vendor reputation and support: Research the vendor’s track record, customer reviews, and their ability to provide ongoing support and updates.
Both cloud-based and on-premise ERP systems have their pros and cons. Cloud-based manufacturing ERP software offers flexibility, scalability, and reduced IT costs, while on-premise ERP provides complete control over data and customization options. Assess your business requirements, budget, and long-term goals to determine which deployment option suits you best.
The manufacturing ERP cost varies based on factors such as the number of users, deployment model, customization, and additional functionalities required. It is advisable to request quotes from multiple vendors and consider the long-term Return on Investment (ROI) before making a decision about the best manufacturing ERP software.
