Top 10 ERP Software for Manufacturing Companies
As technology evolves at a rapid pace, financial management teams must evaluate whether their existing on-premises Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software can keep up or if it's time to transition to a more advanced solution.
Cloud-based manufacturing ERPs streamline and automate operations, reduce labor and IT costs, accelerate financial closing, and provide AI-driven business insights.
This article presents the top 10 ERP software solutions for manufacturing. Selecting the right ERP ensures scalability, enhances decision-making, improves profitability, and aligns with your budget.
These ERP systems cater to midsize to large manufacturing enterprises and offer both cloud and on-premise deployment options.
Manufacturing ERP software is a centralized business management system that integrates core functions such as:
Accounting and finance
Purchasing and supply chain management
Material requirements planning (MRP), including bill of materials, master planning, and production scheduling
Inventory tracking for raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods
Modern ERP platforms also integrate with:
Customer relationship management (CRM)
Payroll
Warehouse and supply chain management
Human resources
Product lifecycle management (PLM)
eCommerce and third-party applications
Most modern manufacturing ERP solutions are cloud-based, equipped with business intelligence, IoT-enabled shop floor monitoring, and AI-driven automation.
Now, let’s explore the top ERP software providers for manufacturing.
SAP is a global leader in ERP solutions, offering robust capabilities for large-scale manufacturing enterprises. Designed to modernize business processes, SAP S/4HANA leverages AI and machine learning to enhance decision-making.
Manages assembly processes, manufacturing engineering, quality control, finance, supply chain, sales, and procurement
Scalable deployment: on-premise, cloud, or hybrid
AI-driven analytics for improved business insights
Advanced data utility
Strong financial evaluation tools
Comprehensive business partner relationship management
High cost
No migration method for platform customization
Risk of data corruption during migration
Fishbowl Manufacturing automates complex tasks and improves inventory management to streamline production and ensure timely deliveries.
Work orders and bill of materials (BOM)
Inventory and warehouse management
Barcode scanning for efficient tracking
Integration with QuickBooks, Salesforce, and shipping software
User-friendly interface
Excellent customer support
Extensive reporting and production planning tools
System can be slow and prone to crashes
Plex provides real-time data connectivity across finance, distribution, and manufacturing, ensuring compliance and efficiency.
Cloud-native ERP with real-time reporting
Customizable dashboards and analytics
Compliance monitoring tools
Fast and responsive cloud-based ERP
Intuitive dashboard
Specialized for manufacturing industries
Complex setup
Dated user interface
Microsoft Dynamics 365 offers a broad suite of features, extending beyond manufacturing to support diverse business operations.
Integrated CRM and financial management
AI-driven business intelligence
Cloud, on-premise, or hybrid deployment
Intuitive user interface
No extensive training required
Responsive support team
Performance slows without a strong internet connection
Lead entry process can be tedious
Deacom delivers a fully integrated ERP system designed for process manufacturing.
Built-in warehouse management, CRM, and eCommerce tools
Supports industries like food & beverage, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals
Predictable implementation costs
Centralized data management
Multiple deployment options
Extensive customer support and training resources
Only supports Windows-based systems
No social media integrations
No free trial available
Acumatica is a highly flexible ERP platform catering to small and mid-sized manufacturers.
Cloud and on-premise deployment
General ledger, accounts payable/receivable, and tax management
Industry-specific customization options
Highly customizable and flexible
Seamless integration with third-party applications
Easy navigation
Error reporting needs improvement
Initial setup can be challenging
SYSPRO is designed to simplify manufacturing operations by providing actionable insights and cost control tools.
Cloud, on-premise, and mobile accessibility
Real-time analytics and reporting
Industry-specific ERP functionalities
Highly configurable interface
Enhances productivity through automation
Learning curve for new users
Interface updates needed
Epicor provides specialized ERP solutions tailored for manufacturing industries, focusing on automation and efficiency.
Smart manufacturing analytics
Cloud and hybrid deployment options
AI and IoT integrations
Scalable for growing businesses
Strong customer support
Requires frequent system updates
Oracle NetSuite offers a comprehensive cloud ERP for manufacturers, providing end-to-end business management capabilities.
Supply chain, inventory, and order management
Financial and accounting tools
Global compliance support
Scalable cloud ERP
Strong financial tracking and forecasting
High licensing costs
Complex implementation
Infor CloudSuite Industrial offers deep manufacturing ERP functionalities, designed to enhance operational efficiency.
AI-powered analytics and automation
End-to-end supply chain visibility
On-premise and cloud deployment
Industry-specific modules
Advanced analytics and reporting
Steep learning curve
Selecting the right ERP software depends on your manufacturing business's size, complexity, and budget. While SAP S/4HANA and Microsoft Dynamics 365 cater to large enterprises, Fishbowl Manufacturing and Acumatica are better suited for small to mid-sized businesses. For a cloud-native solution with real-time analytics, Plex and Oracle NetSuite are excellent choices. Evaluate your business needs carefully to ensure you choose an ERP that drives efficiency and scalability.
