Last Reviewed: November 29th, 2024

Best ERP Software Of 2024

What is ERP Software?

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software is the central nervous system of a business, streamlining and integrating core processes like finance, supply chain, human resources, and operations. It eliminates data silos, improves communication, and provides a real-time view of company performance. ERP solves problems like fragmented data, inefficient workflows, and poor visibility. Its benefits include increased productivity, reduced costs, improved decision-making, and enhanced compliance. Key functionalities involve managing financials, inventory, customer relationships, projects, and payroll. Emerging features include artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cloud-based deployment. ERP caters to all industries, but manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and professional services benefit most. However, implementation can be complex and costly. In essence, ERP software empowers businesses to operate efficiently, make data-driven decisions, and gain a competitive edge. Its value proposition lies in its ability to unify processes, improve transparency, and drive overall business growth.

What Are The Key Benefits of ERP Software?

  • Integrated Data
  • Streamlined Processes
  • Real-Time Visibility
  • Enhanced Decision-Making
  • Reduced Operational Costs
  • Improved Productivity
  • Stronger Compliance
  • Superior Customer Service
  • Increased Collaboration
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Our Research Analysts evaluated 259 solutions and determined the following solutions are the best ERP Software overall:

Overall

  • 87 Visibility ERP
    Best Overall
  • 87 Cetec ERP
    Best Overall, Manufacturing, Order Management
  • 86 Oracle Fusion Cloud
    Best for Asset Management, Customer Relationship Management, Finance and Accounting
  • 86 SyteLine
    Best for Analytics and Reporting
  • 85 SAP S/4HANA Cloud
    Best for Finance and Accounting, Procurement, Supply Chain Management
  • 85 Acumatica
    Best for Integration and Extensibility, Order Management, Service Management
  • 84 Epicor Kinetic
  • 82 Dynamics 365 ERP
    Best for Customer Relationship Management, Finance and Accounting
  • 80 NetSuite
    Best for Finance and Accounting, Warehouse Management
  • 79 S2K Enterprise
    Best for Warehouse Management
Visibility ERP  Award
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Why We Picked Visibility ERP

Visibility ERP shines as a user-friendly and cost-effective option for businesses with mid-level ERP needs. Its intuitive interface makes it easier for employees to learn and use, especially for businesses with limited technical resources. Additionally, Visibility ERP's pricing structure is often seen as more affordable compared to larger, comprehensive solutions, making it a good fit for businesses on a tighter budget.

However, some reviewers highlight limitations that could be deal breakers for certain companies. While reporting is enough for basic needs, it falls short for complex data analysis or in-depth reports. This can be a hurdle for businesses relying heavily on data-driven insights for strategic decisions. Extensive customizations can be resource-intensive and require specialized skills, potentially making it difficult for businesses seeking highly tailored solutions resources.

Overall, Visibility ERP seems ideal for smaller or mid-sized manufacturing and distribution businesses, valuing user-friendliness, affordability and ease of use. However, companies with intricate reporting needs or those seeking highly customized solutions might find its functionalities restrictive and may be better served by exploring alternative ERP solutions.

Pros & Cons

  • User-Friendly Interface: Visibility ERP is praised for its intuitive interface and straightforward navigation, making it easier for users with varying technical skill sets to adapt and become proficient. This can streamline onboarding, reduce training time and improve overall user adoption.
  • Scalability and Customization: While not as extensive as some industry giants, Visibility ERP offers customization options and scalability to accommodate business growth. This allows businesses to tailor the system to their specific needs and add functionalities as required without a complete system overhaul.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to larger ERP systems, Visibility ERP often falls within a more affordable price range, particularly for smaller businesses. This can be a deciding factor for companies seeking a cost-conscious solution that meets their core ERP needs without breaking the bank.
  • Mobile Accessibility: Visibility ERP offers mobile app access, allowing authorized users to access and manage essential business data and processes on the go. It can enhance flexibility, improve decision-making response times and boost productivity for a more mobile workforce.
  • Limited Reporting Features: While Visibility ERP offers basic reporting functionalities, users often find them insufficient for in-depth data analysis and customization. This can hinder the generation of comprehensive reports and limit the ability to gain deeper insights for informed decision-making, especially for businesses with intricate reporting needs.
  • Potential Customization Challenges: Although Visibility ERP boasts scalability and customization options, implementing extensive modifications might be resource-intensive and require specialized expertise. This can be a hurdle for businesses seeking a highly tailored solution without the budget for significant development efforts or in-house technical knowledge.
  • Integration Complexity: Integrating Visibility ERP with existing systems can be challenging due to limited out-of-the-box connectors and potential compatibility issues. This might necessitate additional development work or workarounds, impacting overall implementation time and cost, and potentially hindering a seamless workflow.

Key Features

  • Number of users
  • Depth of features
  • Additional modules
  • Implementation complexity
Cetec ERP  Award
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Why We Picked Cetec ERP

From the moment I logged in, the interface stood out. Navigating through different modules felt intuitive, making it easy to dive in without extensive training. The consistent design across all modules made it quick to adapt and explore everything the platform offers.

One of the best parts of the free trial was the access to all modules. It was great to evaluate every feature without any restrictions.

I used the dummy data provided to explore different modules and was impressed by how easy it was to view metrics in real time. These insights can be crucial for optimizing processes.

Throughout the trial, Cetec ERP’s support team was quick to respond to my emails, helping me get the most out of the platform. Their online resources, like how-to videos and guides, were also super helpful whenever I got stuck.

Customization was another strong point. Many users mentioned it helps them tailor reports and dashboards to meet specific operational needs, which is a huge plus for businesses with unique workflows and metrics.

Even with its minor limitations—like confusing time clocks, limited NCR reporting tools or glitchy upgrades—most find Cetec ERP to be a highly valuable, flexible tool for manufacturing.

Overall, my experience during the free trial was very positive. With its user-friendly interface, different module access, real-time insights and excellent support, Cetec ERP feels like a solid choice for businesses in need of an efficient ERP solution.

Pros & Cons

  • User-Friendly Interface: Users say the interface is super intuitive, making it easy to navigate, even for those who aren’t tech-savvy.
  • Exceptional Customer Support: The customer service team is frequently praised for being responsive, knowledgeable and helpful throughout the implementation process and beyond.
  • Highly Customizable: Users love how customizable the software is, letting them tweak it to fit their unique business needs and workflows.
  • Comprehensive Features: The platform offers a wide range of features, from inventory management to purchasing, that simplify their operations.
  • Real-Time Data Access: Users appreciate having real-time access to data, helping them stay informed and make quick, smart decisions.
  • Implementation/Training: Users often mention how easy the setup is, with smooth training sessions that make the whole process hassle-free.
  • Functionality: Users mention that the time clock doesn't automatically refresh, NCR reports lack customization options, and navigating invoice lists and dates can be frustrating.
  • Implementation Challenges: Some users have reported issues during the implementation phase, particularly with data migration and initial setup.
  • Occasional Performance Issues: There are mentions of the system slowing down at times, which can disrupt workflows and impact efficiency.
  • Limited Advanced Features: A few users feel that some features lack the advanced functionality they’re used to in other ERP systems, limiting effectiveness in certain situations.
  • Learning Curve: While many find the system easy to use, some users note that certain features can be tricky at first and may take extra time to get used to.

Key Features

  • CRM & Sales Management: Simplify your workflows and eliminate duplicate data entry with fully integrated CRM and sales tools. Enjoy a seamless experience without added costs or complications.
  • Manufacturing Quoting: Improve the accuracy of your quotes using BOM estimation and job costing tools. Track essential metrics like sales performance, order profitability, and won or lost business with ease. Our analysts ranked its manufacturing capabilities as the best in the ERP category. 
  • Order Tracking & Fulfillment: Simplify the fulfillment process for both customer and internal demands with Cetec ERP’s flexible platform. Manage a wide array of orders and shipments effortlessly.
  • Purchasing & MRP: Navigate complex supply chain dependencies and material requirements to optimize your procurement process. Make strategic purchasing decisions while ensuring cash flow remains steady.
  • Inventory Management: Tackle even the toughest inventory challenges. Whether you’re dealing with high-mix/low-volume environments or tracking specialized materials, you have the tools needed to maintain control.
  • Mobile Warehousing: Equip your team with barcode scanners, mobile printers and tablets for improved efficiency. This setup allows for smooth management of receiving, material allocation and shipping.
  • Shop Floor: Oversee diverse shop floor operations with ease. Track labor and overhead while utilizing electronic routers/travelers and mobile data collection stations to ensure organization and efficiency. In our assessment, Cetec scored an impressive 100, putting it ahead of Visibility ERP and Dynamics 365 SCM.
  • Planning & Scheduling: Make scheduling and planning for work orders straightforward. Cetec ERP’s production management tools help you handle complex material and labor dependencies, allowing you to anticipate customer needs better. Our analysts ranked its production scheduling capabilities as the best in the manufacturing category. 
  • Document Management: Maintain organization and efficiency with the integrated document management system. Avoid the hassle of searching through files or spreadsheets; everything you need is readily accessible in your ERP system.
  • Quality Assurance & ISO: Integrate your quality and ERP systems to minimize paperwork. This connection allows you to meet ISO and other certification audit requirements automatically.
  • Accounting / Financials: Connect your manufacturing operations directly to your accounting processes. Monitor transactions in real time to ensure accurate postings to your ledger.
  • Custom Reporting: Use the extensive data captured in your ERP system. Save valuable time wasted on report preparation.
Oracle Fusion Cloud  Award
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Why We Picked Oracle Fusion Cloud

Oracle Fusion Cloud scores 86, placing it second in our analysis on our ERP software leaderboard. Our researchers ranked various features, including asset, customer relationship and human resources management. The product tour modules gave me a good overview of the different features. Watching the webinar videos and reviewing the product documentation provided more clarity on how it works.

Many users like the clean user interface and dashboards. I noticed this while going through the training materials. However, new users might find the learning curve a bit steep, but there are plenty of resources available to help.

I know the tours don’t cover every use case, so a free demo could be helpful. Many success stories highlight that setting up the software is quick and easy, often without needing support to get started.

I appreciate the effort they’ve put into creating resources over the years and continually improving the product. This gives me confidence that investing in their complete suite of enterprise solutions is worth it and relevant to current market changes.

Some users mentioned that the implementation can be complex, which might overwhelm small teams with tight budgets. Additionally, some feel the pricing structure is on the higher side.

Overall, Oracle Fusion Cloud is an enterprise application with key modules for ERP, EPM, SCM, HCM, and CX. Users value its scalability, flexibility and integration capabilities. However, some say that the platform can be complex and has a learning curve. Compared to similar products, Oracle Fusion Cloud is an excellent choice for businesses seeking a comprehensive cloud solution.

Pros & Cons

  • Integration and Usability: Users appreciate how the platform smoothly integrates with other Oracle products, boosting productivity and teamwork across departments.
  • Advanced Features: The use of AI and machine learning that supports decision-making and task automation are seen as a big advantage.
  • Continuous Improvement: Many users mention that the software keeps getting better with regular updates that improve features and user experience.
  • Robust Analytics: The platform provides strong analytics, helping with better financial management and offering useful operational insights.
  • User-Friendly Interface: Users like the simple, easy-to-navigate dashboards, which make troubleshooting easier and streamline workflows for a better user experience.
  • Strong Security Features: It has solid security measures and compliance certifications, keeping sensitive data safe and meeting regulatory standards.
  • Real-Time Insights: The platform provides real-time analytics and reporting for quicker data-based decisions.
  • Improved Accessibility: As a cloud-based platform, it allows users to access important data from anywhere, anytime, offering flexibility and quick responses.
  • Automated Processes: Automation simplifies routine tasks like account reconciliations and expense claims, reducing manual work, minimizing errors and improving efficiency.
  • Complex Implementation: Users mention that the implementation process is complex and lengthy, which can be overwhelming and time-consuming, especially for smaller organizations.
  • High Cost: Some users consider the pricing structure to be high, particularly for small and medium-sized businesses, which may limit accessibility.
  • Training Needs: Users note that a lack of training resources can hinder effective use, leading to a steep learning curve for new users.
  • Limited Regional Features: Users point out that some features may not be available in all regions, limiting functionality for global organizations.
  • Data Migration Challenges: Moving data from older systems to Oracle Fusion Cloud can be complex and may lead to data integrity issues.
  • Vendor Dependence: Some users are concerned about becoming too reliant on Oracle for updates and support, which can limit flexibility in managing their IT systems.
  • Customization Challenges: While customization options exist, users report that extensive changes can complicate upgrades and maintenance, potentially increasing costs and implementation time.
  • Limited User Support: Users have expressed concerns about the availability and responsiveness of support, which can delay the resolution of issues.

Key Features

  • Financial: It simplifies your closing process with built-in standardization and automation. Use dashboards to track progress, automate account reconciliations, and enhance control and auditability. With a single source of financial data, you can speed up issue resolution and ensure compliance. Strong analytics and reporting tools also make decision-making and external reporting easier for you.
  • Project Management: Connect the right resources to your projects for better team alignment. Use drag-and-drop Gantt charts to manage workloads and gain visibility across multiple projects. Plus, streamline your tasks with a conversational interface for greater efficiency. Our analysts give its project management capabilities a perfect score of 100.
  • Procurement: Automate your source-to-pay process using machine learning to select the best suppliers and manage risks. Simplify your purchasing with analytics and supplier tools, all while keeping costs in check. With integration into Oracle Cloud ERP, you can enjoy a seamless user experience and leverage AI to strengthen your supplier relationships.
  • Risk Management: It enhances your security with continuous monitoring and self-service access management. The platform helps you detect Separation of Duties (SoD) violations early, simplifies financial audits, and digitizes internal controls for easier compliance tracking. With a centralized risk and control matrix, you can promote collaboration and transparency across your organization.
  • Enterprise Performance Management: Streamline your sign-off tracking, customize formats and set alerts for managing exceptions. Handle large transaction volumes quickly while ensuring secure document storage for compliance. Plus, you can easily integrate with other Oracle Cloud EPM apps for a complete financial close solution.
SyteLine  Award
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Why We Picked SyteLine

User reviews of Infor SyteLine paint a mixed picture, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.

On the plus side, many users praise its robust functionality and scalability. Users particularly note that it can manage core business functions like finance, inventory, production, and customer management well and adjust to changing needs. This could be a major plus for businesses with ambitious plans.

New to ERP systems? Many reviews suggest SyteLine's interface is intuitive and easy to learn, minimizing training time and getting teams up and running quickly. Streamlined workflows and automated tasks are also highlighted as efficiency boosters, improving resource allocation.

Additionally, real-time insights and comprehensive reporting are popular among many users. Reviews expressed real-time insights on job shop visibility, equipment and stocks, allowing them to address potential issues before they snowball.

Now, let’s consider some potential challenges. Some users express frustration with customization and integration challenges, finding it difficult to tailor the software to their specific requirements and connect it with other apps. This issue could be a deal-breaker if your business has unique workflows or relies heavily on specific integrations.

There are occasional mentions of slow response times and system crashes. This problem can be disruptive and impact productivity, so consider your tolerance for such occurrences.

Compared to similar products, SyteLine has a steeper learning curve but ultimately offers a more powerful and feature-rich experience. While reviewers note that it's user-friendly overall, they also report that the initial setup can be more complex than with options like Sage X3 or Epicor ERP.
The mid-range price point can also deter small businesses with limited budgets. Others may find the subscription model less attractive than perpetual licensing options available in other solutions.

Here’s our verdict: SyteLine is a powerful and versatile ERP system that’s well-suited for mid-sized businesses with complex processes and a desire for robust functionality. However, its customization and integration challenges, occasional performance issues and mid-range price are worth considering. Carefully weigh the pros and cons against your specific needs and budget before committing.

Pros & Cons

  • User Interface: With almost a 60% satisfaction rate amongst reviewers, SyteLine boasts a user-friendly interface and experience.
  • Functionality: According to 90% of reviewers, SyteLine provides robust functionality that can be managed and tailored to most business processes. Additionally, they provide industry-specific solutions so that users have the best fit for their business in terms of functionality.
  • Customization: Just over half of the reviewers who mentioned customization painted the process in a positive light. However, reviewers cautioned that extensive customization can lead to issues during system upgrades, but customizations are typically necessary to get the system to work with your business processes.
  • Robust Functionality: SyteLine offers a comprehensive suite of features covering core business processes like financials, inventory management, production planning, supply chain management and customer relationship management.
  • Scalability and Flexibility: SyteLine's adaptable architecture allows it to grow and evolve alongside your business, accommodating changing needs and expansion plans.
  • User-Friendly Interface: SyteLine's intuitive interface and design minimize training time and maximize user adoption, ensuring efficient and productive workflows.
  • Operational Efficiency: Streamlined processes, automated tasks, and integrated modules help eliminate manual data entry and duplication, optimizing resource allocation and boosting overall efficiency.
  • Enhanced Visibility and Control: Comprehensive dashboards and reporting tools provide real-time insights into key performance indicators, enabling informed decision-making and proactive problem-solving.
  • Support: Complaints relating to bad training documentation and unresolved issues yielded negative feedback in about 70% of reviews that mentioned SyteLine support.
  • BI and Reporting: Of the users who mentioned BI and reporting capabilities in their reviews, 66% expressed that SyteLine doesn’t offer sufficient out-of-box reports. They also mentioned that reports can be difficult to configure without IT support.
  • Navigation: Though the system is generally user-friendly, 63% of reviewers said that navigation can feel disjointed and non-intuitive, sometimes requiring multiple clicks to complete a simple transaction.
  • Customization Challenges: While SyteLine offers a comprehensive set of features, some users report difficulties in customizing the software to meet their specific needs and workflows. This can be particularly challenging for businesses with unique processes or requirements.
  • Integration Challenges: Integrating SyteLine with other business applications can be complex and require significant technical expertise. This can lead to delays and additional costs during implementation.
  • Occasional Performance Issues: Some users have experienced occasional performance issues, such as slow response times and system crashes. These issues can disrupt workflows and impact productivity.
  • Mid-Range Price: SyteLine falls within the mid-range price bracket for ERP solutions, which may be too expensive for small businesses or those with limited budgets. Additionally, the subscription-based pricing model can be a significant ongoing expense for some businesses.
  • Limited Reporting Capabilities: While SyteLine provides standard reports, some users report that the built-in reporting capabilities are limited and lack customization options. This can make it challenging to generate specific reports needed for analysis and decision-making.

Key Features

  • Operation and Supply Chain Management: Enable better sourcing and procurement, inventory management, and shipping and receiving. Collaborate with vendors over a secure supplier portal. Regularly verify physical inventory levels to ensure accuracy.
  • Project Management: Access a single interface that provides a unified location to manage all projects and resources. Includes a defined task and resource structure, defined invoice milestones and revenue recognition, and quick cost-and-schedule-variance identification.
  • Advanced Planning and Scheduling (APS): Use demand forecasting tools to predict customer needs and track materials availability to ensure sufficient raw materials are always in stock. Use APS tools with mixed mode support for engineer-to-order, configure-to-order, highly repetitive, process and service-based manufacturing.
  • Shop Floor Management: Manage production activities on the factory floor in real time. Create, track and manage work orders associated with specific production runs. Track labor with visibility of employee time spent on different production tasks.
  • Purchase Orders and Requisitions: Generate purchase orders automatically based on purchase requisitions and approved vendor information. Manage communication with suppliers and track purchase order status.
  • Service Management: Manage and deliver tailored service with real-time shop floor reporting, a detailed contact center to track profitable service activities, and efficient scheduling and work order management tools.
  • Industry 4.0 Integration: Connect with internet-of-things (IoT) devices on the factory floor to gather accurate data on machine performance, environmental conditions and other factors. Automate production processes based on real-time insights.
  • Collaboration Portals: Improve collaboration with customers, vendors and resellers with easy-to-use portals that provide quick access to data that users care about.
  • Financial Management: Coordinate production operations with financial and costing operations. Capabilities include:
    • Accounts payable and receivable can automatically input and calculate payments.
    • Tax management to ensure financial compliance through various business stages.
    • Parametric and rule-based calculations to automatically calculate pricing for individual materials.
    • Ability to link purchases, work orders and customer orders to calculate profit margins.
SAP S/4HANA Cloud  Award
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Why We Picked SAP S/4HANA Cloud

As a free trial user of SAP S/4HANA Cloud, I can confidently say it excels in simplifying core business processes and offers top-notch capabilities. Our analysts give a perfect 100 for their Finance, Procurement and Supply Chain Management modules.

SAP S/4HANA Cloud is a robust ERP solution widely used across various industries due to its flexible, modular design and comprehensive functionality. After trying it firsthand, I was surprised by the initial setup. It was smooth and intuitive, with sample data and guided tours provided to explore all modules easily.

The main menu and search bar were easy to navigate without redirects. I also liked how user-friendly the interface felt, especially for a first-time user.

The finance module stood out to me. It provides a centralized dashboard where you can store and generate all sorts of reports, and it's easy to keep track of payments and overdue invoices. For someone looking to optimize manufacturing, it offers real-time visibility into operations, making it easier to meet customer demands efficiently.

That said, the free trial had its limitations. I couldn’t access all features or sample data completely, which made it harder to fully explore the system’s potential.

That being said, our analysts rated the Finance, Procurement, and Supply Chain Management modules a perfect 100. Many recent reviews have echoed the same sentiment, praising its real-time inventory view and automated workflows. However, others mentioned the inability to customize workflows during the trial.

Users also pointed out the system’s complexity, but I personally found it easier to navigate than expected with the sample data. Still, I’m unsure how it would perform with real-time data in an actual business setting.

Pricing wasn’t listed directly on the site, but compared to competitors, SAP S/4HANA costs—including implementation, licensing and training—are higher, especially for smaller organizations with tighter budgets.

Overall, SAP S/4HANA Cloud is a powerful tool with advanced capabilities, though its learning curve and customization limitations may be challenging for some. For larger organizations with the budget and resources to implement it fully, it can significantly improve operations and drive growth.

Pros & Cons

  • Real-Time Inventory Visibility: It optimizes stock levels and avoids stockouts with instant inventory updates, reducing carrying costs and boosting customer satisfaction.
  • Purchase Order Accuracy: Some users say automating purchase order generation based on real-time inventory and demand has minimized errors in procurement.
  • Production Planning: It refines production schedules and resource allocation with real-time data insights from connected machines and sensors, increasing efficiency and output.
  • Financial Reporting: Many users appreciate the ability to generate accurate and timely financial reports with automated data consolidation from all departments.
  • Sales Team Productivity: It gives the sales team the ability to access customer data and manage orders directly from mobile devices. This increases overall productivity and works efficiently from anywhere.
  • Automatic Updates: Users say that SAP manages regular updates and maintenance, ensuring up-to-date features and security patches without the need for external resources.
  • Steep Learning Curve: It can be tough to transition from traditional ERPs to a new interface and cloud-based model. This could affect initial productivity, requiring user training to get fully up to speed.
  • Limited Customization: Users say the customization options are limited compared to on-premise systems. The ability to tailor the system for specific business needs is restricted.
  • Integration Challenges: Users find integrating with older, non-S/4HANA systems challenging. The process often requires additional tools and expertise, which can increase the complexity and overall costs.
  • Vendor Lock-in: Some users mention the reliance on SAP's cloud infrastructure makes it harder to switch to alternative solutions later. This dependency can reduce flexibility for future expansion.
  • High Subscription Costs: Some users say the cost of the software is a big barrier for small businesses since the initial implementation and ongoing subscription fees are relatively high.
  • Response Time: Customer support could be more responsive and efficient in addressing issues. Users mentioned that providing more thorough assistance would enhance the overall customer experience.

Key Features

  • Financial Management: The SAP S/4HANA financial and accounting management tool scored 100 in our assessment. Below are some key capabilities:
    • Run your business efficiently using built-in best practices, reporting and predictive analytics to maintain compliance and manage risks.
    • Analyze your revenue and costs in real time, allowing you to view data across various dimensions to understand profitability at any level of detail.
    • Automatically record financial transactions as they occur, ensuring reports are up-to-date while supporting multiple accounting principles for asset valuation.
    • Use KPIs to monitor and manage payables, receivables, and cash flow, giving you a real-time view of key financial metrics through a centralized dashboard.
    • Prioritize payments, track overdue invoices and identify high-risk customers to help your team manage costs more effectively and reduce the risk of bad debt.
    • Centralize tax and financial reporting, ensuring that all departments access the same consistent data, while guiding users through an interactive financial analysis process.
  • Sales Management: The SAP S/4HANA Sales module offers effective order and contract management, incentive and commission management, and support for sales teams. Its key capabilities include:
    • Manage the order-to-cash process efficiently across various revenue streams, including physical and digital goods, services, subscriptions, projects and bundles.
    • Oversee bundled orders from one place, tracking profit, cost and revenue for each order line item. Automate alerts for project changes, deadlines and expirations.
    • Equip sales reps to sell more effectively with a personalized home page, intuitive interface and quick access to tasks, applications and reports.
    • Create sales orders from unstructured data like PDF or image-based purchase orders using machine learning to extract information automatically.
    • Simplify incomplete sales order documentation with AI-powered autocomplete, which suggests missing fields based on historical data.
    • Automate invoicing by integrating billing and accounting, improving cash flow accuracy and simplifying accounts receivable, all while meeting local requirements.
  • Supply Chain Management: The SAP S/4HANA Supply Chain tool achieved an outstanding score of 100 in our assessment, surpassing Visibility ERP and Oracle Fusion Cloud. It offers users a range of capabilities, including:
    • Get real-time visibility into your supply chain with customizable dashboards. Track inventory, predict stock trends with AI and monitor deliveries instantly.
    • Automatically confirm and process customer orders, ensuring that they align with business priorities to meet customer expectations.
    • Help teams cut costs and reduce waste with easy-to-use mobile apps for packing goods more efficiently as part of the logistics process.
    • Shorten delivery times by making sure you have the right vehicles, optimized routes, and the right quantity of goods, saving both time and fuel.
  • Manufacturing Management: The SAP S/4HANA Manufacturing module is built on methods like lean control, continuous improvement and just-in-time replenishment. It can:
    • Optimize production by integrating processes smoothly, whether you're manufacturing to stock, order or custom specifications.
    • Meet customer demands by identifying and fixing capacity issues, bottlenecks or shortfalls early, using planning simulations to find the best solutions.
    • Balance supply and demand with real-time material requirements planning (MRP). The system immediately flags MRP exceptions and helps you resolve them quickly.
    • Ensure timely product delivery by tracking each container’s status with a real-time graphical Kanban board.
    • Deliver high-quality products by running quality inspections throughout the production process.
  • Procurement Management: The SAP S/4HANA Procurement module offers a scalable, value-driven and compliant process for managing operations. Its key features include:
    • Easily view and update all purchase requisitions at once. The Joule copilot simplifies how employees collaborate during procurement tasks.
    • Efficiently manage the entire procure-to-pay process, with real-time insights available at every stage.
    • Identify bottlenecks and cost-saving opportunities with a customizable dashboard that shows all key tasks. Automate workflows for purchase orders, contracts and invoices, and analyze them in detail.
    • Improve purchase contracts by setting up approval workflows. Track contract usage, plan renewals and negotiate long-term discounts with suppliers.
    • Predict delivery dates for purchase orders to improve planning and avoid production delays.
    • Make informed decisions by accessing real-time purchasing data without needing to open multiple reports.
Acumatica  Award
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Why We Picked Acumatica

User reviews, coupled with our extensive research, confirm Acumatica’s reputation for flexibility and scalability. Still, certain features and overall performance have drawn mixed reviews.

First, the positives. A majority of user reviews highlight Acumatica’s functionality and its ease of use. Popular mentions include the quoting and billing, accounts location, and inventory management features. Other honorable mentions are the accounts payable and invoice routing tools.

Reviewers specifically mention that managing administrative functions is a breeze and accessible from anywhere. One user even mentioned that their business is retiring other legacy systems because Acumatica fulfills those needs by offering tools to manage various business functions on one platform with complete access to past data.

For those who swear by Excel, Acumatica offers a comforting bridge with its robust Excel integration. The export to Excel feature is available on every grid. No more tedious manual transfers.

However, drawbacks like the less-than-ideal calendar feature and tricky project management tools have been noted. Users say that project management, while capable of managing multiple projects at once, could have fewer steps.

The platform’s performance can be a hiccup. Multiple users experienced glitches, especially when dealing with large datasets or navigating through generic inquiries. The system also logs out after 60 minutes of idle time. Defining user inactivity timeout is only available for Acumatica 2023 R1 and beyond.

Beyond user reviews, our research team delved into the strengths and weaknesses of Acumatica. According to our research, it’s the best in the game for order and service management.

Acumatica's biggest differentiator lies in its open architecture and customization options. Unlike some competitors with limited customization or reliance on pre-built modules, Acumatica lets you tailor the platform to their specific workflows and processes.

The caveat is that molding the platform will take time and a great deal of expertise (either through internal IT or external support). Implementation will get drawn out, and expediting this process without proper alignment with your business needs will deter you from getting complete value for the amount you pay.

The timeline and pricing might not be suitable for smaller firms or startups. Some users also wished the private cloud perpetual (PCP) licensing model wasn't discontinued. We suggest looking for other options if you don’t want to pay a monthly recurring fee.

So, is Acumatica right for you?

Acumatica is a strong contender if your business demands a highly adaptable system and you're prepared to invest time and resources in customization. However, if you prioritize rapid implementation and lightning-fast performance, you might want to explore other options.

Pros & Cons

  • User-Friendly: While there were some mixed reviews concerning disjointed navigation and the need for in-depth end-user training, 75% of reviewers said that Acumatica is easy to use.
  • Reporting: Over 50% of users were in favor of Acumatica’s reporting. Those who were not in favor said that the reporting feature required IT assistance to generate specialized reports, as the custom report tool isn’t friendly for those without developer knowledge.
  • Customization: Nearly three-fourths of reviews that mentioned customization applauded the vast amount of opportunities for customization, while one-fourth of reviewers complained that users need IT assistance to complete customizations.
  • Functionality: Acumatica provides robust functionality — almost 82% of reviewers said the system came with every tool they needed and more. Reviewers also mentioned that yearly updates are rolled out, so functionality is always improving.
  • Integration: Of the users that mentioned integration in their review, 100% were satisfied with the connectivity to other systems.
  • Cloud-Based Scalability: Easily adapt to business growth by adding modules or users without data disruption or complex upgrades.
  • Seamless Integrations: Connect with various third-party tools and platforms through open APIs and connectors, streamlining data flow and operations.
  • Centralized Data: Consolidate all business information in one system, improving data accuracy, accessibility and reporting capabilities.
  • Mobile App Access: Manage key tasks and access data on the go with the mobile app, boosting productivity and flexibility.
  • Support: Almost 70% of reviews concerning support were negative, given that Acumatica requires users to partner with a third party for support. In addition, there were some grievances surrounding the “Help” documentation.
  • Implementation: Between long implementation cycles and a requirement for a VAR to implement the system, 75% of reviewers said that they weren’t happy with the process.
  • Higher Cost Than Basic Options: Initial investment and per-application pricing can be steeper than some basic accounting software, especially for smaller businesses.
  • Steeper Learning Curve for Complex Needs: Extensive customization and advanced features may require dedicated IT resources or consultant support, increasing implementation costs.
  • Limited Industry-Specific Features: May lack specialized modules or functionalities for highly regulated or niche industries.
  • Reporting Customization Restrictions: While customizable, financial reporting options might not offer the depth and drill-down capabilities of dedicated reporting tools.
  • Occasional System Bugs & Glitches: 80% of users who mentioned platform speed report occasional bugs and glitches, requiring troubleshooting and potential downtime.

Key Features

  • Financial Management: Manage accounting, budgeting, financial reporting and cash management on one platform. In addition to core functions like general ledgers, accounts receivables and payables, it offers automated bank reconciliations and multi-currency to support efficiency and global operations.
  • Distribution Management: Manage sales, inventory, and purchasing processes with one module. Top features include order management, inventory control and warehouse management. Its ability to handle complex inventory valuation methods and real-time inventory visibility sets it apart.
  • Order Management: Get better control over the entire order-to-cash process. From order entry and tracking to fulfillment and invoicing, it provides complete visibility and control.
  • Built-In CRM: Build and maintain strong customer relationships. Use sales force automation, marketing automation and customer service management tools to make every interaction meaningful. Integrated sales forecasting, lead scoring and customer lifecycle management drive sales growth and improve customer satisfaction.
  • Manufacturing: Get real-time visibility into shop floor activities. Create and manage multiple work centers. Manage everything from bills of materials (BOM) creation to work order management based on job dispatch lists.
  • Service Management: Use an extensive service management toolkit that includes service request creation, service contract management and installation management features. Enhance service delivery and improve technician productivity by offering a technical portal to start and end appointments.
  • Inventory Management: Capture key inventory details like class ID and item types. These support cycle routing with better visibility into stock levels. Build kits to stock with the option to disassemble kits into smaller components.
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Why We Picked Epicor Kinetic

Kinetic offers a comprehensive ERP solution designed for multimodal manufacturers. It offers a robust combination of core financials, extensive integrations and country-specific implementation support. The advanced overlaid manufacturing module addresses future scalability needs. Its modern interface supports various business models through manufacturing processes.

The user-based subscription model lets businesses adjust costs based on their specific needs. The solution is available in both perpetual and subscription licensing models, providing businesses with the flexibility to choose the most suitable option.

Features like MES data exchange and Kanban systems manage production processes and reduce waste. Additionally, in-depth business analytics provide valuable insights into sales, profit margins and workflow performance for informed decision-making.

Users praise this vendor’s configurable options and range of functions that cater to their unique business needs. Positive feedback also includes mentions of a unified platform for customer interactions. Despite its robust customization and integration options, many users report a steep learning curve and limited training resources.

Overall, Kinetic is a comprehensive ERP solution that offers significant benefits to manufacturers looking to improve their operational efficiency, decision-making and profitability.

Pros & Cons

  • Modern Interface: Approximately 52% of users say this solution has a flexible, user-friendly UI.
  • Flexibility and Customization: Approximately 87% of the users said Kinetic is easy to configure and has great customization options for multi-mode manufacturers.
  • Modules: Of the users who discussed features, 60% said this system offers a wide range of practical tools (i.e., KPI dashboards, accounting and financial management, part tracking and more).
  • Overall Performance: Roughly 40% of users indicated that the system is buggy, cumbersome and has a clunky UI.
  • Customer Support: About 55% of users agree that the support team is ineffective and has poor quality.
  • Training: Approximately 77% of users mentioned a steep learning curve and limited training resources.

Key Features

  • Project Management
    • Planning and Analysis: Leverage user-established cost analytics throughout work breakdown structures (WBS), defining all project components and creating WBS templates for quick reference. Record all general ledger and project transactions in one centralized ledger for base reconciliations and reporting.
    • Contract Management: Meet contractual obligations while protecting profitability. Rely on the system to define source cost rates across levels, monitor resource ceilings, link planning contracts with projects and seamlessly develop claims for any or all contract lines on one screen.
    • Billing Types: Obtain several billing types, such as progress, fixed price, milestone and quantity. Use bill plans, recurring payment, subscriptions, time and expenses, part price lists, and markups.
  • Manufacturing
    • Lean Manufacturing: Optimize production processes, reduce waste and manage manufacturing operations by incorporating lean principles. Apply Kanban systems, enable manufacturing without work orders and automatically process material flow.
    • Job Management: Access detailed job tracking and reduce overproduction with drag-and-drop planning and material availability checks. Ensure quality and production with job manager assistance and production planners.
    • Manufacturing Execution System (MES): Monitor production activities and automatic data collection from equipment via touchscreen interfaces. Support operators in making smart decisions regarding productivity, waste reduction and risk mitigation.
    • Quality Assurance: Enhances quality control by providing tools for managing quality processes, inspections, supplier returns and automated debit processing within the manufacturing environment.
  • Analytics and Reporting
    • Sales and CRM: Uncover more detailed business patterns and obtain deeper awareness of accounts, regions, orders and more. Review net sales, shipped and ordered quantities, material costs, fixed and variable burdens and labor fees.
    • Materials Management: Optimize purchase spending and evaluate vendor performances. Track shipment progress and review costs, on-hand amounts, in-transit, bill of lading information and shipped on time, amongst others.
    • Financials: Govern cash flows for more trends with a holistic filter for payables, receivables, customer payment cycles and vendor payment conditions. Drill down into organized accounts and payments on income statements and balance sheets.
    • Production: Verify high-quality, manufactured products for the ideal client at the right time. Monitor tool quantities, good values, actual setup hours, defined labor rates, production run standards and more.
    • Preventive Maintenance: Employ the EDA equipment maintenance data and dashboard to inspect maintenance data for suppliers, tasks, plants and open and closed requests. Boost preventive maintenance services and average response times for obstacles so managers can catch production bottlenecks.
    • Field Service: Use EDA data to oversee consumers, parts, service call types and warranty eligibility linked with service requests. Summarize totals, call counts for each service representative and other relevant indications.
  • Data Exchange
    • Integrations: Import and export data quickly to avoid manual data entry mistakes while maintaining data integrity. Manage specific information, data amounts and file formats for easy storage and sharing. Allocate data expeditiously and handle detailed tasks for IT teams and administrators.
    • In and Outbound Data: Import master information from ERP systems and send production details between MRP and ERP solutions. Regulate where data goes and how to handle it with ease.
  • Financials Core
    • General Ledger: Process and post all purchases made across this and other solutions. Manage manual entries, meet economic compliances, boost productivity and push enterprise efficiency.
    • Accounts Payable: Implement petty cash to manage in and outbound cash activities, employee fees and advances, vendor expenditures and customer receipts. Track promissory notes, post-dated checks and other credit tools.
    • Accounts Receivable: Establish coherent tools to monitor invoicing, credit, cash and client requirements. Create automatic invoices via order releases to reduce more work and typos.
    • Business Architecture: Use the data discovery function to access pre-made financial management, accounts receivable and payable content. The human capital management link transfers information to payroll providers, benefit vendors and more.
    • Global Engines: Support financial management across locations, vendors and global boundaries with country-specific implementation packs. Support multi-currency transactions, automate conversions and accurate financial reporting.
  • Epicor Automation Studio: Let users connect data and automate workflows across various apps with Epicor Automation Studio, a built-in low-code iPaaS solution. Access an integration marketplace, pre-built workflow automation templates and other native tools.
  • Virtual Agents: Rely on chatbots to pinpoint supply chain disruptions and recommend sourcing options based on predictive events.

Pricing

License/Subscription
  • On-premise:
    • Cost is based on a named user license model where each license is tied to a specific user
    • On-premise deployment requires an upfront fee to own the software and IP for a fixed term, plus implementation/installation, maintenance, system upkeep overtime, customization and third-party integration costs, which are over and above the license fee
    • 10% to 15% is the typical rate of perpetual or renewal licensing for ERP systems
  • Cloud-based/SaaS:
    • Based on recurring subscription-based model: per user, per month
    • Over the course of a year, subscription fees typically add up to about 20% to 30% of the cost of the on-premise deployment.
    • Cost varies based on the number of named user licenses that the organization requires, the level of access users require, the number of applications, the size and type of organization and the level of customization required.
Maintenance Cost
  • On-premise:
    • Cost is over and above the license fee
    • Requires ongoing maintenance plus ongoing upgrade support, which involves additional cost
    • Users have to enter into an agreement for annual support and maintenance. The cost usually falls in the range of 10% to 20% of the original license fee
  • Cloud-based/SaaS:
    • Not included in the subscription cost
    • There is an additional cost for ongoing maintenance and upgrades
  • For both types of deployment:
    • Cost varies depending on the number of users
    • An additional cost for upgrading the software is charged for new releases, which are essential for the system to remain fully functional
    • New additions to hardware and software are an additional cost
    • Epicor provides full upgrade packages, ad-hoc services, technical consulting and early-stage project planning assistance for those who choose to upgrade on their own
Installation/Implementation Cost
  • For both types of deployment, the cost is over and above the subscription cost
  • Cost varies based on the number of users, system architecture, implementation scope and complexity, company size, industry and third-party integrations
  • Third-party services are priced at 30% to 35% of the system cost
  • Additional applications and customizations increase the implementation cost
  • Involves human resources cost during the implementation phase, as companies may need to onboard temporary workers to replace the users who will be working on the ERP project
  • Cost varies depending on who provides the implementation services: Epicor, in-house or outsourced/third-party
Customization Cost
  • For both types of deployment, cost varies depending on additional applications and modules, such as Financial Management, Maintenance Management, Multi-company Management, Product Data Management and Supply Chain Management. Size and type of organization also influences the cost
  • The larger the organization, the more additional customizations are required and the more expensive the ERP implementation can become
  • Heavy customization increases the total cost of ownership (TCO)
Data Migration Cost/Change Management/Upfront Switching Cost
  • Cost varies depending on which legacy system is used (an older, proprietary system vs. disparate systems), the amount of business and historical data to be migrated to the new ERP system and the intensity of data migration
  • Additional licenses are purchased separately for the Database Management System of ERP. Cost of these licenses are not included in the implementation cost
Recurring/Renewal Costs
  • The standard license renewal fees for an ERP is between 10% and 15% of the software cost
  • On-premise:
    • Annual recurring fees are paid over and above the upfront cost for annual renewal, upgrades, ongoing support and maintenance, customization, third-party integration and training
  • Cloud-based/SaaS:
    • Renewal cost is included in the subscription fee, based on the number of users, add-on user licenses, ongoing support and maintenance, customization, third-party integration and training
Dynamics 365 ERP  Award
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Why We Picked Dynamics 365 ERP

Microsoft Dynamics 365 ERP is a suite of applications designed to help growing businesses manage Enterprise Resource Planning alongside CRM. After exploring user reviews, product demos, documentation and success stories, here’s what stood out:

Its seamless integration with Microsoft tools like Power BI, Power Automate, and Teams improves productivity through better data visualization, automated workflows, and collaboration.

For instance, Belgotex1, a global carpet manufacturer, faced challenges with outdated, disconnected systems. Critical data was scattered, and collaboration between departments was hindered. By implementing Dynamics 365 alongside Power Apps, Power Pages, Power BI and Microsoft Fabric, they unified operations and empowered employees to address these inefficiencies.

Its modular structure is another major strength. It consolidates various processes into a single system, reducing data silos and improving collaboration across departments.

Pricing is flexible and varies by application and licensing type. You should carefully assess your specific needs to determine the best solution.

Another strong feature that stood out to me is its ability to automate repetitive tasks. It reduces manual errors and frees up time for more strategic activities. Customization options further improve its value, allowing you to tailor the system to your unique requirements. 

However, some users have reported challenges, including a learning curve for beginners, implementation hurdles and occasional performance issues.

Overall, Dynamics 365 ERP is a versatile solution for businesses aiming to integrate operations across departments. With its robust features, AI-powered tools, and seamless integration with other Microsoft products, it stands out as a compelling choice for businesses looking to boost efficiency and drive growth.

Pros & Cons

  • Streamlined Operations: Users praise Dynamics 365 ERP for simplifying complex processes, boosting efficiency, and reducing manual tasks.
  • Enhanced Visibility: Real-time data insights and improved reporting are lauded for providing better decision-making capabilities.
  • Scalability and Flexibility: The ability to adapt to changing business needs and integrate with other systems is a major plus for users.
  • Improved Collaboration: Seamless integration with Microsoft tools and mobile accessibility are seen as key strengths for teamwork.
  • Reduced Costs: Users report cost savings through optimized inventory management, streamlined processes, and improved efficiency.
  • Implementation Complexity: Some users report challenges with initial setup and configuration, requiring technical expertise.
  • Cost Concerns: While cost-effective compared to some competitors, upfront licensing, implementation, extensive modifications and ongoing maintenance fees can be significant.
  • Learning Curve: The interface can be complex for new users, requiring training and adaptation.
  • Performance Issues: Handling large datasets or complex configurations can hinder overall efficiency and productivity.
  • Integration Challenges: While offering integration with Microsoft tools, seamless integration with non-Microsoft systems can be complex.

Key Features

  • Financial Management: Comprehensive financial management suite for general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, cash management, budgeting, and financial reporting.
  • Supply Chain Management: Integrated supply chain management for procurement, inventory management, production planning, warehousing, logistics, and quality control.
  • Sales and Customer Service: Tools for sales force automation, customer relationship management, lead management, opportunity tracking, order management, and customer service.
  • Project Management and Accounting: Project planning, resource scheduling, time and expense tracking, billing, and project accounting.
  • Business Intelligence and Analytics: Built-in reporting and analytics tools, including Power BI integration for advanced data visualization and analysis.
  • Workflow Automation: Visual designer for automating business processes across departments, eliminating manual tasks, and streamlining operations.
  • Mobile Accessibility: Native mobile apps for iOS and Android devices for accessing data and managing tasks on the go.
  • Cloud-Based Deployment: Scalable cloud-based platform with automatic updates and continuous innovation.
  • Customization and Integration: Low-code tools for customization and integration with other business systems and applications.
  • Industry-Specific Modules: Specialized modules for manufacturing, retail, professional services, and other industries.
NetSuite  Award
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Why We Picked NetSuite

User reviews for NetSuite ERP paint a mixed picture, highlighting both its strengths and weaknesses. Many users praise its comprehensive features and real-time data visibility, reporting improvements in efficiency and collaboration. One user commented, "NetSuite has transformed our business by automating tedious tasks and providing us with a single source of truth for all our data." Another added, "The collaboration features are fantastic – we can now work together seamlessly across different departments, which has boosted productivity significantly." However, users also raise concerns about the complexity of the platform and its high cost. Some find the learning curve steep and the customization options limited compared to competitors like SAP Business One and Microsoft Dynamics 365. One user noted, "NetSuite was initially overwhelming for our team due to its complexity. We had to invest heavily in training just to get started." Another commented, "The cost was a major barrier for us. We found other ERP solutions that offered similar features at a fraction of the price." The issue of vendor lock-in is another recurring concern among users. Switching to a different ERP system can be challenging due to data migration issues and dependence on NetSuite's proprietary features. One user expressed their apprehension, "We're worried about getting locked into NetSuite's ecosystem. Switching to another provider seems like a huge headache." Overall, user reviews suggest that NetSuite ERP is a powerful and feature-rich solution but comes with a steep learning curve and high cost. While it may be the perfect fit for large organizations with complex needs and significant resources, smaller businesses might find it overwhelming and expensive. When evaluating NetSuite, it's crucial to carefully consider your specific needs, budget, and technical expertise before making a decision.

Pros & Cons

  • Real-time data and visibility: Gain immediate insights into your business performance with real-time access to all your data.
  • Improved efficiency and automation: Automate routine tasks and streamline workflows to boost productivity across your organization.
  • Enhanced collaboration: Break down departmental silos and foster better communication across teams.
  • Scalability and flexibility: Adapt NetSuite to your unique needs and accommodate your business growth.
  • Comprehensive features: Manage all aspects of your business operations with a single platform.
  • Improved decision-making: Get data-driven insights to make informed and strategic decisions.
  • Strong customer support: Reliable support is available through multiple channels to ensure your success.
  • High security and compliance: Secure your data and meet industry regulations with robust security features.
  • High cost: NetSuite's initial implementation and ongoing maintenance fees can be significant, especially for small businesses.
  • Steep learning curve: The platform's extensive features require significant training and user adoption efforts.
  • Limited customization options: While customizable, NetSuite requires technical expertise and can be costly compared to competitors.
  • Vendor lock-in concerns: Switching to a different ERP provider can be challenging due to potential data migration issues and dependence on NetSuite's proprietary features.
  • Integration challenges with certain applications: While NetSuite offers pre-built integrations, connecting with niche or less popular applications might require complex manual data entry or third-party solutions.

Key Features

  • Sales Order Management: The sales order management tool provides automation that works to reduce manual errors and to speed up the billing and order management process. It is also integrated with other business functions such as finance and fulfillment. 
  • Source Management: This tool helps ensure compliance during the purchasing process through its centralized supply portal. It also has forecasting abilities that are able to recalculate predictions based on actual fluctuations. 
  • Warehouse Management: The warehouse management feature streamlines warehouse operations by decreasing overhead and cycle times. It can also improve rates of on-time delivery, therefore improving customer retention and ultimately boosting revenue. 
  • Production Management: The production management tool is integrated with CAD and PLM functionality. This feature assists in the development of quotes, tracking of contract renewals and cost estimation. 
  • Manufacturing Accounting: All of the basic features of accounting are present in this tool, from invoicing to forecasting. It can also help your company determine the amount of taxes you need to pay based on factors such as location and revenue. 
  • Transportation and Logistics: This tool is well-integrated with IoT functionality, as it lets you see in real-time where your transportation units are located. The logistic side of this tool provides inventory estimation based on historical data to help you decide what to order more of and what to order less of. 

Pricing

Maintenance Cost The NetSuite ERP maintenance cost is included in the price of your subscription. If you purchase a license directly with NetSuite, you will also get NetSuite Support. There are silver, gold and platinum packages that are priced based on your annual contract value. This tool includes FAQs, tips and online user guides.
Installation/Implementation Cost Installation and/or implementation is an additional cost with NetSuite ERP. NetSuite requires that you use a third-party for implementation support. Therefore, price varies depending on which consulting firm you decide to go with.
Customization Cost Customization is an extra cost when purchasing NetSuite ERP. This is associated with the introduction of tools or programs that go above and beyond the “out of the box” software capabilities.
Data Migration Cost/Change Management/Upfront Switching Cost This is another cost that goes above and beyond that of the basic software package. The price of this is dependent on factors such as complexity and the amount of data that you need to move over to the new system.
Recurring/Renewal Costs Your recurring costs are dependent on the elements listed above, such as the number of users needed for your software solution, implementation, support and training services.
S2K Enterprise  Award
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Why We Picked S2K Enterprise

S2K Enterprise is a robust and flexible ERP system designed to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes. The research process included looking at user reviews and expert opinions to find the product’s strengths and weaknesses. Although they don’t offer a free trial to fully explore their modules, I could watch product demo videos after filling out a form.

Our analysts ranked its warehouse management system (WMS) as the best compared to its competitors. This shows how well S2K Enterprise supports warehouse functions. Watching the product tour videos gave us a clear view of its other features and how they work.

The WMS helps detect stock shortages or excess inventory in one or multiple warehouses. It gives real-time updates on inventory movement, making stock tracking more accurate.

Another strong point is its mobile capability1. Notably, Morton Wholesale saw big improvements after using S2K Enterprise’s mobile tools. This upgrade gave the company real-time access to data, faster order processing and better inventory control using mobile devices. These changes led to more flexible workflows and better overall efficiency.

Users also appreciate S2K Enterprise for its strong integration features. It connects different modules and allows real-time data sharing, which is key for managing inventory and other tasks.

The system’s user-friendly design is also noteworthy, though beginners might find it takes some time to learn all the features. Users have also highlighted good customer support and helpful reporting tools.

While some users mention limits in customization and usability issues, most reviews show that S2K Enterprise is reliable and effective.

Overall, S2K Enterprise is a comprehensive ERP choice for businesses that need a scalable and dependable system. Its strong WMS and inventory management features, along with easy integration with other platforms, make it a valuable option for companies looking to improve their supply chain and operations.

Pros & Cons

  • User-Friendly: Its user-friendly, easy-to-learn interface is a hit with most users.
  • Customization: S2K Enterprise’s centralized toolkit lets you tweak and tailor it to meet your industry-specific needs.
  • Customer Support: Users say their support team is responsive and always ready to help with issues.
  • Reduced IT Costs: S2K Enterprise is known for its ability to lower IT expenses through its cloud-based architecture, eliminating the need for on-premise hardware and its associated maintenance costs.
  • Improved Operational Efficiency: The platform's automation capabilities streamline processes like order processing and inventory management, leading to increased productivity and reduced manual errors.
  • Enhanced Decision-Making: S2K Enterprise provides real-time data insights and comprehensive reporting tools, empowering businesses to make informed decisions based on accurate and up-to-date information.
  • Scalability and Flexibility: The system's modular design allows businesses to easily adapt and scale their ERP solution as their needs evolve, ensuring long-term value and support for growth.
  • Customization Limitations: Users have expressed frustration with the inflexibility of S2K Enterprise when it comes to adapting the software to their specific workflows and reporting needs. The system's rigidity can lead to workarounds and inefficiencies.
  • Reporting Challenges: Generating reports and extracting meaningful insights from data can be complex. Users often find the reporting tools to be limited and inflexible, requiring manual workarounds or additional software.
  • Steep Learning Curve: It can be tough to get started with the system’s wide range of tools, and training may be necessary.

Key Features

  • Finance and Accounting: Stay on top of your finances with a system that manages accounts receivable (AR), accounts payable (AP), general ledger (GL) and fixed assets effortlessly. You can easily create financial reports, track customer and vendor rebates, and get real-time inventory updates.
  • Inventory Management: Manage purchase orders, quotes, vendor returns and drop shipments without any hassle. You can track inventory levels, commitments and location-specific data. Also, quickly spot extra or unsold items by reviewing performance history. Our analysts give the platform a 99 for its exceptional inventory management.
  • Supply and Demand Planning: Plan your stock levels as it calculates the right amount of inventory based on vendor delivery times and performance. It also adjusts for seasonal trends, large orders and future demand. You can even use Target & Forward Buying to grab cost-saving deals from vendors.
  • Warehouse Management System: Handle everything from receiving and picking to packing, shipping, and inventory counts easily. The mobile app helps you reduce errors through features like verification and labeling, warehouse transfers, and cycle counting. In our assessment, S2K Enterprise scored an impressive 87, putting it ahead of Visibility ERP and Oracle Fusion Cloud.
  • CRM & Sales: Take charge of your sales process from any device. You can manage leads, log activities and create tasks on the go. With real-time access to inventory, pricing, and customer data, it's easy to generate quotes, track orders, and respond to customer needs quickly.
  • Marketing Automation: Build effective marketing campaigns and workflows tailored to your needs. The system integrates with CRM, eCommerce and other marketing tools. With valuable insights at your fingertips, you can grow brand awareness, generate leads and foster stronger customer relationships.
  • Ecommerce: Manage orders, vendor portals and customer self-service—all from one unified platform. It offers secure, user-based access and a flexible design that you can fully customize. Integrated tools like Google Analytics provide real-time data, so your operations always run smoothly.
  • Manufacturing Management: Support item assembly, repackaging, and manufacturing, all tied seamlessly into inventory, sales, and accounting. You can create and update bills of materials (BOM) for various products and track inventory and labor with modules that plan material and resource needs.
  • Retail Point-of-Sale (POS): In-store or account sales, the POS system speeds up your checkout process with barcode scanning and multiple payment options. You can quickly check stock across all locations and access detailed product information. The system also offers top-notch security features to protect your transactions.
  • Mobile Applications: Stay connected on the go with mobile apps that sync to your system and provide real-time data. You’ll have access to mobile ordering, route sales, proof of delivery, warehouse management, sales analysis and even field service—all from your mobile device.
  • Rental Management: Easily search for and check equipment availability directly from the dashboard. The system lets you access rental history and profitability reports and manage rental contracts, reservations, quotes, inventory, and pricing — in one place.

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All ERP Software (259 found)

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Epicor Eclipse

by Epicor Software Corporation
Epicor Eclipse
Epicor Eclipse is an enterprise resource planning (ERP) software designed for mid-market distributors. It streamlines core operations like inventory management, order fulfillment, and warehouse logistics, providing real-time visibility and control across the supply chain. Its robust features cater to complex distribution needs, including multi-location inventory, advanced pricing rules, and kitting and assembly functionalities. Eclipse's strengths lie in its tight integration between modules, facilitating seamless data flow and eliminating manual work. Users praise its intuitive interface, customizable dashboards, and efficient reporting tools. Compared to similar ERP systems, Eclipse is lauded for its scalability, adaptability to diverse industry requirements, and proactive customer support. Pricing for Eclipse varies based on the specific modules chosen, company size, and implementation needs. It typically follows a tiered subscription model with annual or multi-year contracts. While not the most budget-friendly option, Eclipse's comprehensive functionality and potential for increased efficiency often justify the investment for distributors seeking to optimize their operations and gain a competitive edge. Pros Streamlined workflows Real-time visibility Scalable & adaptable Good customer support Reduces manual work Cons High upfront cost Complex initial setup Limited customization options Reporting can be tricky Integration costs for add-ons
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: great
Cost Breakdown
$100 - $500
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Inecta Food

by Inecta LLC
Inecta Food
Inecta Food is an enterprise resource planning (ERP) platform designed to streamline business operations for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). It offers robust features across various functionalities, including financials, inventory management, customer relationship management (CRM), and project management. Inecta Food caters to a diverse range of industries, including manufacturing, distribution, retail, and professional services. Its intuitive interface and cloud-based accessibility make it particularly well-suited for businesses seeking a user-friendly and scalable ERP solution. Key benefits of Inecta Food include improved operational efficiency, enhanced collaboration, increased data visibility, and reduced costs. Popular features include automated workflows, real-time reporting, and mobile accessibility. User reviews highlight its affordability, ease of use, and comprehensive functionality compared to similar ERP solutions. Inecta Food offers a flexible pricing model based on the number of users and modules required. Monthly subscription fees start at a competitive rate, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious businesses. Pros User-friendly interface Cloud-based accessibility Comprehensive functionality Affordable pricing Improved operational efficiency Cons Limited customization Complex features learning curve Limited reporting capabilities Potential integration issues Fewer industry-specific features
Cost Breakdown
$10 - $100
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Priority ERP

by Priority Software
Priority ERP
Priority ERP is a cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution designed for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) across various industries. It provides a comprehensive suite of integrated tools to manage core business functions like finance, accounting, inventory, customer relationship management (CRM), and project management. Priority ERP boasts a user-friendly interface, customizable dashboards, and robust reporting capabilities, making it suitable for companies with limited IT resources. Key benefits include improved operational efficiency, real-time visibility into business data, enhanced collaboration, and increased productivity. Popular features include advanced financial management, integrated CRM, web-based accessibility, and mobile apps for on-the-go access. User reviews highlight Priority ERP's ease of use, scalability, and strong customer support. Compared to similar solutions, Priority ERP is praised for its affordable pricing and flexible subscription options. Pricing ranges based on the number of users and modules required, with monthly and annual payment options available. Pros User-friendly interface Scalable for growth Affordable options Strong customer support Mobile apps for access Cons Limited reporting Fewer features Not for complex businesses Limited customization Integration challenges
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: great
Cost Breakdown
$100 - $500
Company Size
Small Medium Large
Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android

Cetec ERP

by Cetec ERP
Cetec ERP
Cetec ERP is a cloud-based solution tailored for manufacturing and distribution businesses. It runs operations more efficiently while offering real-time visibility into every aspect of your business. Here’s what you can expect: Manage customer relationships and track sales processes from start to finish. Simplify quoting, track orders and keep production on schedule. Optimize purchasing decisions and streamline material requirements planning. Monitor stock levels in real time, reducing waste and ensuring availability. Maintain high standards with integrated quality control processes.Users love its easy-to-use interface and rich features. Many appreciate how it connects across departments, making operations smoother and less stressful. Unlike other ERP systems that use third-party vendors for support, Cetec’s in-house team provides direct help. Plus, updates come at no extra cost.You can use Cetec ERP as a cloud-based solution via a web browser or as an on-premise installation with local servers. When it comes to pricing, Cetec ERP uses a subscription model. Base users are $50 per user per month with a minimum of five users, while shop floor users are $25 per user per month. Volume discounts are available for larger teams, making it a great choice for businesses looking to grow.To learn more about Cetec ERP, visit their company page.
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: great
Cost Breakdown
$10 - $100
Company Size
Small Medium Large
Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android

Pricing Guide

See the Price/User for the top ERP software… plus the most important considerations and questions to ask when shopping.

Buyer's Guide

ERP Software Is All About Streamlining and Centralizing Business Functions

ERP Software Buyer's Guide Intro Header

You found this page for one of three reasons: 1) You're not sure how to begin your ERP software search. 2) Your current applications are outdated, and you need replacements. Or 3) You're an enterprise resource planning software enthusiast.

You're in luck! This buyer's guide covers everything from benefits and must-have features to critical benefits and the best ERP systems in the market.

What Is ERP Software?

ERP software is a business suite that streamlines and automates workflows and centralizes several company departments in one hub. Departments range from business intelligence (BI) and accounting to manufacturing and supply chain management (SCM).

Depending on the vendor's offered functionality, you can expect features for human resources, product lifecycle management (PLM), inventory management, professional services automation (PSA) and more.

Brief History

Enterprise resource planning software debuted around the '60s and '70s as material requirements planning (MRP) software to streamline manufacturing processes.

Gartner used the phrase 'enterprise resource planning' in the '90s because it started encompassing other enterprise sectors. ERP tools offer numerous deployment options and features while catering to specific and multiple industries.

Who Uses ERP Software?

Virtually anyone can use ERP thanks to upgrades. Most tools are simple and easy to navigate. Several company sectors leverage this tool to simplify their routine practices.

Some examples of those who use enterprise resource planning are accounting, HR, sales, marketing and procurement departments.

Types of Users and Systems

Since ERP tools serve multiple departments, there are diverse user and software types.

Accounting, marketing, customer support, analysts and manufacturers are just some of the people who use ERP solutions.

Some of the top ERP systems serve specific industries and workflows, such as:

ERP vs. CRM

Sometimes, people confuse enterprise resource planning with customer relationship management (CRM) software, but comparing these tools is like differentiating between Star Wars and Star Trek.

They both share a common ground, but each solution carries unique functionalities.

ERP systems can cater to accounting, manufacturing, marketing automation (MA) and other business sectors. Also, ERP companies offer their tools as a suite of programs in one hub. CRM can count as one module in this centralized platform.

CRM software focuses exclusively on customer-related features and requirements. Some features include database management, mobile support, lead management, sales automation and so on.

Buying Considerations

Several factors affect an ERP's total cost of ownership (TCO), from deployment options to the number of users.

Deployment Methods

ERP tools offer several deployment options, such as on-premise, the cloud or a hybrid combination. Cloud deployment is becoming the most popular method.

On-Premise

You install this enterprise resource planning software type directly onto business servers and hardware. With on-premise deployment, you must host and maintain your enterprise resource planning product. This mode is for those who travel less often or own one worksite.

Cloud

People access cloud ERP through the internet, allowing users to access the software anytime in any location with a strong internet connection. Typically, a cloud ERP vendor distributes, updates and handles software maintenance.

Cloud-based enterprise resource planning deployment has several options:

  • SaaS (software as a service) ERP: This choice is subscription-based and requires paying a monthly fee based on the number of users.
  • Private Cloud: This alternative offers third-party service providers or on-site data center hosting.
  • Public Cloud: Typically managed by a third-party cloud service provider and delivered online.

Hybrid

Review numerous on-premise and cloud deployment and hosting services that users may combine to satisfy their requirements.

Establish Implementation Objectives and Goals

Here are a few implementation goals to consider as you browse different ERP software companies.

As we’ll discuss throughout this guide, implementation is lengthy and complicated. Around every corner is the potential for hidden costs and opportunities for mistakes.

However, if you keep a few goals in mind about what you want your ERP to achieve, you can avoid some common mishaps.

Goal 1

Boost Productivity

You're looking to invest in a new ERP solution or thinking about add-ons because you're not reaching productivity expectations.

Automated ERP products and modules reduce repetitive tasks, such as allocating invoices, performing bank reconciliations and more, so you can increase efficiency in other areas.

Goal 2

Save Costs and Time

A reliable ERP can reduce human errors and work with real-time data. The more automation you implement, the more money and time you save on manual inputting or fixing mistakes.

Goal 3

Increase Competitiveness

Investing in ERP tools keeps you in line with or ahead of your competitors. The world is changing, and ERP tools are the norm in most industries.

Why not invest in a solution that meets your industry needs? There are numerous ERP vendors to choose from and pick to streamline your workflows.

Goal 4

Enhance Data Accuracy

Knowing how numbers and KPIs change at all times is essential to quicker problem-solving. BI, BA or other analytical tools provide speedy notifications and reports to help make better decisions.

If your production floor experiences unexpected downtime, you'll hear about it immediately. If products experience contamination, you can initiate early recalls.

Goal 5

Maintain Customer Relationships

Not having the right analytics for your current or prospective clients is like walking in the dark without a flashlight. How can you gauge practices or improve products without the right tools?

CRM capabilities and integrations can track customer satisfaction rates, review client feedback, engage consumers on social media and establish a portal to maintain product issue awareness.

ERP Solutions Report

Expert recommendations and analysis compare the best enterprise resource planning tools

Get free access now

Primary Benefits

ERP solutions offer various advantages that can improve business operations, such as enhancing data security and quality, streamlining collaborations and workflows, improving customer service and offering in-depth reporting.

Laurie McCabe, co-founder and partner of SMB Group, conversed with us about a few reasons why the right enterprise resource planning software is a reliable tool in your corner.

[ERP software] can grow with the business, accommodating new processes and additional users as business conditions and goals change. It provides more comprehensive data and analytics tools and reports. This can improve business intelligence to help enable better decision-making."

There are other reasons to use ERP, such as:

ERP Software Benefits

Improve Data Protection

Cloud enterprise resource planning vendors typically offer numerous security tactics to protect all information. Some safeguarding practices include:

  • Two-Step or Multi-Factor Authentication: Obtain SMS codes on your phone, input answers to security questions only you would know, or implement retina or thumbprint scanning. These and other authentication sign options add extra security when logging into your software.
  • Data Encryption: Scramble information into unreadable codes with data encryption. The only way to cipher your data is with an encryption key.
  • User-level Permissions: Give roles specific access permissions to safeguard vital KPIs, numbers and other information from inexperienced rookies.

Boost Department Collaboration

It's challenging to work with various business departments. Enterprise resource planning ensures all teams share data to keep everyone on the same page. Users only have to input information once for complete company access.

If errors or last-minute changes crop up in ERP tools, you can quickly rectify them in real time.

Chuck Langenhop, CMA Senior Director of CFO Advisory Services LP, sat down with us to discuss how ERP can reduce communication silos of too many emails, phone calls and hallway discussions.

While an ERP system does not, and should not, eliminate one-on-one or group discussions, it will streamline collaboration, creating savings and avoidance of misunderstandings."

Langenhop gave two examples of how ERP collaboration can unify departments and avoid workflow confusion.

Accounting can deliver a faster month-end close whereby inventory and other operational transactions are captured much more quickly. Revision management, or version control, in the product master, avoids miscommunication between engineering, manufacturing and quality control."

Increase Productivity

Automating tasks and consolidating workflows across ERP applications can strengthen productivity, especially on the manufacturing floor. More finished, high-quality products mean more productivity, equaling more profits and happier consumers.

Langenhop explained that ERP solutions can pinpoint and rectify problems that can create "excessive scrap, waste, downtime, labor and rework." He also described how this software can improve rush order handling and resource management.

An ERP system can allow easier expediting of rush orders via adjustments to purchasing, on-hand inventory allocations and production rescheduling. Similarly, in a project-based business where a complex work breakdown structure is utilized, an ERP can more easily manage in-house and subcontractor resources as well as material availability and equipment rentals."

Lastly, Langenhop described how ERP tools can strengthen quality control.

In quality control, digital checklists can be deployed to take the place of paper forms. ERP QC can have the intelligence to monitor inputs against acceptable ranges for factors such as diameter, temperature or pH, and then flag work orders that are out of specification."

Save Money

A consolidated ERP system can save money by keeping you from buying disparate programs for your HR, accounting, manufacturing and CRM needs.

You also save money by reducing IT personnel since most ERP systems are user-friendly and most vendors offer in-depth user training modules.

Enhance Customer Satisfaction

Increasing productivity and gaining thorough customer data via CRM modules increases awareness of your clientele's needs. More client interaction and support means they'll return for more products and services.

Current customers may also tell their friends, family and others to shop at your company. Effective customer strategies also garner new consumers.

Langenhop said flexibility is the key to meeting clients' specific needs.

An ERP can introduce flexibility in a company's processes to make it easier to meet customers' special requirements, particularly in an engineer-to-order business."
ERP Solutions Report

Expert recommendations and analysis compare the best enterprise resource planning tools

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Basic Features & Functionality

ERP has numerous features and capabilities to streamline workflows and increase efficiency.

Accounting/Financial Management

Applications for enterprise resource planning support accounting tools such as accounts payable and receivable, asset management, risk management and more.

Advanced financial reporting software also supports aging analysis, cash flow analysis and budgetary reporting.

CRM

CRM modules can assist in customer account management, sales order management and marketing resource management (MRM) to track purchases and create ads.

Some ERP tools even allow you to rescind customers' abilities to complete purchases due to past financial issues or other factors.

Data Analysis aka Reporting and Analytics

Garner various company analytics and KPIs to detect trends and patterns. You may also invest in separate BI and business analytics (BA) software.

SCM

SCM encompasses functions from product development to distribution. Distribution management, event management and purchase order (PO) processing can boost productivity.

PO processing tracks purchase orders from issuance to completion. This accessory ensures timely service and compliance with customer needs.

Manufacturing

Manufacturing tools can streamline production and maintain orders. Manage BOMs, inventory, order statuses, shipments and more features.

ERP Solutions Report

Expert recommendations and analysis compare the best enterprise resource planning tools

Get free access now

Advanced Features to Consider

Logistics

Top ERP software helps you manage product movements and storage.

Logistics tools maintain stock items, warehouses and transportation methods. It also streamlines demand forecasting and third-party logistics operations.

Integration

Merge enterprise resource planning with other systems to improve centralization.

Some system integrations include accounting, CRM, BI, BA and more.

Automation

Most top ERP systems offer automation tools to carry out routine tasks automatically.

For example, you could distribute invoices, balance general ledgers, relay inventory notifications when stock items meet minimum quantity levels and more.

Order Management

Follow all orders from start to finish with effective order management tools.

Order management software can maintain inventory oversight, boost client satisfaction, increase efficiency and more.

ERP Solutions Report

Expert recommendations and analysis compare the best enterprise resource planning tools

Get free access now

Software Comparison Strategy

Numerous ERP companies sell different applications with different functionalities. Research how enterprise resource planning providers enhance their product's business functions.

Ask colleagues how their ERP tool works and its ROI impact. Understand your current system's pain points.

Enterprise resource planning software selection is extensive, but it’s only worthwhile if you’re meticulous.

Langenhop warned that a software comparison strategy done alone is foolish and that software demos can showcase ERP providers' products.

Collaboration and internal buy-in during the selection process will set the stage for successful implementation. In my experience, conducting demos with a short list of two or three ERP systems is fine. Developing a custom demo script for the vendors with company scenarios makes it easier to make intelligent comparisons across the different ERPs."

Langenhop recommended looking at ERPs as long-term investments.

It is important to determine your price range, not just based on budget but to identify peer group solutions that are neither too simple nor too complex based on your anticipated future requirements. The one-million-dollar plus system will probably not be the right fit for a small enterprise with a $500,000 budget."

Lean Selection Methodology

As previously mentioned, you must be thorough in your selection quest. Thankfully, our Lean Selection Methodology has a precise nine-step process for choosing the ideal software suitable for any business or industry.

Here's a quick breakdown of each step:

  1. Establish: Find the root cause of why you need a new system.
  2. Collaborate: Formulate a strong selection committee to help gather requirements.
  3. Define: Establish a solid requirements list.
  4. Distribute: Shortlist vendors and see how they align with your requirements.
  5. Justify: Decide whether you need a new tool, add-ons or if you want to end your search.
  6. Prove: Review your shortlisted vendors and ask them to provide demos, use cases and more of their software.
  7. Rank: Review and rank ERP tools according to their demo scores and TCOs.
  8. Negotiate: Sit down with an ideal vendor to negotiate conditions.
  9. Sign: Review and sign with your preferred vendor. Then, initiate a solid implementation plan.

ERP Software BG Lean Selection Steps

Define Requirements

As noted in our Lean Selection technique, using an internal software selection committee can help you compile a practical ERP requirements list to suit everyone's needs.

Langenhop explains the importance of creating an ERP RFP for streamlined requirement searching.

I recommend that after searching for potential ERP vendors that the selection team prepares and sends an RFP to a long list of three to six candidates that meet roughly 80% of the requirements. The RFP should thereby focus on the last 20%, the differentiations that address the company's special requirements."

Need help finding requirements for your company's needs? Our free, in-depth requirements template offers plenty of modules and ERP providers to compare and contrast solutions.

Pricing Considerations

SelectHub offers a complete pricing guide with the best ERP system and implementation instructions to help our customers make the most strategic decisions. This guide also helps you avoid going over budget when reviewing ERP companies.

There are a few considerations to mull over as you begin your quest for the perfect enterprise resource planning product:

  • Budget: Establish a realistic enterprise resource planning budget with a bit of extra money for additional costs and hidden fees.
  • Company Size: Find a solution that meets your size, whether a small corner store, a global enterprise or somewhere in between.
  • Industry: Review ERP providers that cater to your sector. Most ERPs lost their one-size-fits-all philosophy.
Price Guide for ERP Solutions

See prices for the top enterprise resource planning software... Plus get important questions to ask.

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Helpful Questions To Ask Vendors

Langenhop advised that asking vendors questions about their experience and ERP solution's functional requirements and scalability is vital for the software selection process.

Getting an understanding of the ERP vendor's target markets is an important step in the selection process. I highly recommend that you ask vendors about their ERP systems' experience and reputation in your vertical. A strong distribution ERP, for example, may only meet the needs of light manufacturing."

He added that specific queries about ERP applications and vendors garner more insight.

For vendors that have solutions on both the cloud and on-premise, is there a difference? Sometimes, a cloud version will lack certain flexibility, functionality or scalability. What are the tools for configuration, querying and report writing? Are APIs available to integrate third-party solutions that you may need, such as a CAD interface?
Questions should be asked about the experience level of the proposed implementation team, particularly the project manager. While vendors may not want to present names, they should be able to provide generic bios. It is also a good practice to request the vendor's formal implementation methodology."

Chuck Quote

Here are a few guiding questions to ask enterprise resource planning providers about their ERP solutions and practices:

About the Software

  • How scalable is this enterprise resource planning software?
  • Can this solution integrate with our current software?
  • How smooth is your system's user interface, and how often is it updated?
  • What advanced financial reports do you offer?
  • Does the software integrate data from multiple departments?

About the Vendor

  • How many years of experience do you have with companies our size or industry?
  • How many successful implementations have you had in the past year?
  • What support and training do you provide? How responsive is your support team if we need to contact them?
  • Do you offer demos, use cases or POCs to demonstrate your product capabilities?
  • How will your ERP tool's capabilities meet our company's needs?
ERP Solutions Report

Expert recommendations and analysis compare the best enterprise resource planning software

Get free access now

FAQs

What is an ERP System?

ERP software is a business suite that automates workflows while centralizing several company departments for better navigation, communication and real-time updates.

Should I get an ERP for my business?

Yes. ERP tools automate routine jobs and workflows so you can focus on other high-priority and client-facing tasks.

What are the top implementation challenges?

Top ERP implementation challenges include:

  • Not weeding out the right vendors in your software selection journey.
  • Inadequate time and budget planning because implementations can take longer or shorter than usual. You can also run into hidden or unexpected fees.
  • Inaccurate data when migrating it to the new system.
  • Resisting change when swapping out your old system with a new one and not training employees and end-users on the new solution.

What are the most popular ERP systems?

Some popular ERP systems include:

What are some ERP system examples?

Instead of picking an all-encompassing system, you can choose different types of ERP solutions that meet particular sectors or industries. Most ERP software companies offer programs like:

  • Cloud/SaaS
  • Managed Service Provider (MSP)
  • Small Business
  • Open-source
  • Manufacturing
  • Accounting/Financial Management
  • HR
  • BI
  • Business Analytics (BA)
  • And more!

Why should I get an ERP system?

McCabe shared some insights on why you should buy an ERP.

[ERP software] can consolidate various business processes into a single system, making it easier to streamline workflows between departments. As a unified system, it improves data quality and reduces data inconsistencies. It helps maintain compliance with industry standards and regulations through consistent and auditable processes."

Langenhop weighed in with ERP's seemingly endless functions.

An ERP can be a platform for integrating ancillary functions, such as time clocks, EDI, customer or vendor portals, construction management, retail point-of-sale or CAD. A cutting-edge technology called Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is now being integrated as well. Workflow management features can be utilized to facilitate hands-off [operations] and improve visibility into the status of projects."

ERP Solutions Report

Expert recommendations and analysis compare the best enterprise resource planning software

Get free access now

Next Steps

ERP Software is an essential tool that unifies departments, increases production and strengthens profits. It enables you to maintain compliance and allocate better forecasts.

Ready to find your ideal ERP tool? Check out our free, in-depth comparison report to gain insight into top ERP software companies.

Product Comparisons

Additional Resources

SME Contributors

Chuck Langenhop

Chuck Langenhop is a Certified Management Accountant (CMA) and Senior Director with CFO Advisory Services in Richardson, Texas. His experience includes financial planning & analysis, ERP selections and implementations, and M&A due diligence. He works with diverse industries, including discrete manufacturing, food processing, distribution, and construction. Chuck has presented at the Sage Software Summit and participated in web panels sponsored by CFO magazine and Infor on topics related to ERP selections, functionality trends, and project management. Chuck has been interviewed by Compliance Week, Network World, and ChannelPro Network. He is a SelectHub Thought Leader, and he holds an MBA from Rice University.

Laurie McCabe

Laurie McCabe is co-founder of SMB Group, an IT industry analyst research and consulting firm. Laurie has more than 25 years of experience in the IT industry and has built widespread recognition for her insights in the small and medium business (SMB) technology market. Laurie writes often on her blog, speaks regularly at industry events, and has thousands of followers on LinkedIn and Twitter.

About The Contributors

The following expert team members are responsible for creating, reviewing, and fact checking the accuracy of this content.

Technical Content Writer
Khaleel Hayes is a Technical Content Writer for SelectHub, with over 4 years of experience crafting content for manufacturing, PLM, ERP and technology selection audiences. He's also a freelance writer in his spare time. His body of work includes poetry, short plays, feature articles and film reviews either self-published or in Denver publications. He graduated with a B.A. in Journalism and an English minor from Metropolitan State University of Denver in May 2018. When not writing, he enjoys classic movies and music, tasty burgers, tasteful bookstores, and breathtaking art and photography.
Technical Research By Mohit Hariramani
Senior Analyst
Mohit has a degree and Master in Finance from Mumbai, India, his years of professional market research experience started in 2019. His expertise lies in categories such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Manufacturing, Inventory Management, Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), Facility Management Software (FMS), POS Systems (Point of Sale) and more. Through his academic and professional background, he honed skills in attention to detail, navigating ambiguity, and analytical prowess, which uniquely equip him to manage and thrive in the dynamic landscape of these diverse categories. He's passionate about leveraging his knowledge and experience to contribute effectively to the assigned technology areas.
Technical Review By Kankana Kalita
Principal Analyst
A seasoned business and research analyst, Kankana Kalita specializes in ERP, CMMS, manufacturing, construction, supply chain, HRMS and CRM. Prior to joining SelectHub, she earned a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and Engineering, an MBA in Operations and Marketing, and worked in email marketing and logistics.
Edited By Hunter Lowe
Content Editor
Hunter Lowe is a Content Editor, Writer and Market Analyst at SelectHub. His team covers categories that range from ERP and business intelligence to transportation and supply chain management. Hunter is an avid reader and Dungeons and Dragons addict who studied English and Creative Writing through college. In his free time, you'll likely find him devising new dungeons for his players to explore, checking out the latest video games, writing his next horror story or running around with his daughter.