Top Prophet 21 Alternatives & Competitors For 2024

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Looking for alternatives to Prophet 21? Many users crave user-friendly and feature-rich solutions for tasks like Inventory Management, Purchase Order Management and Procurement, and Accounting and Financial Management. Leveraging crowdsourced data from over 1,000 real Distribution Software selection projects based on 400+ capabilities, we present a comparison of Prophet 21 to leading industry alternatives like Blue Link ERP, Acumatica Distribution, Epicor Eclipse, and ShipCompliant.

Prophet 21 Software Tool
Blue Link ERP Software Tool
Acumatica Distribution Software Tool
Epicor Eclipse Software Tool

Product Basics

Epicor Prophet 21, powered by Microsoft Azure, is a business management system for distributors. It streamlines distribution processes and helps overcome modern distribution industry challenges. It’s designed to grow with your business without making extensive modifications and is available for SaaS or on-premise deployment.

It has numerous capabilities, such as CRM, sales order management, e-commerce, inventory management, product management and wireless warehouse management. Other functionalities include financial management, manufacturing and production management, rentals, VMI, service and maintenance, SCM, business intelligence and analytics and enterprise content management.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Scalable
  • Affordable
  • Cloud-based
  • Mobile app

Cons

  • Limited features
  • Not customizable
  • Poor customer support
  • Lacks integrations
  • Security concerns
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Blue Link ERP is a cloud-based Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software designed to streamline and integrate key business processes for small and medium-sized distributors and wholesalers. Its comprehensive features encompass inventory management, accounting, order processing, warehouse management, customer relationship management (CRM), and business intelligence. Blue Link ERP is particularly well-suited for businesses that manage complex inventory operations, multiple sales channels, and require robust reporting capabilities. Users often highlight its user-friendly interface, strong inventory control features, and ability to automate time-consuming tasks as key benefits. Compared to similar products, Blue Link ERP is often praised for its industry-specific functionality and value for price. Pricing is subscription-based, typically charged monthly per user, and varies depending on the specific features and modules required.

Pros
  • User-friendly interface
  • Robust inventory control
  • Strong reporting features
  • Industry-specific functionality
  • Value for price
Cons
  • Limited customization options
  • Occasional technical glitches
  • Steeper learning curve for some modules
  • Reporting customization challenges
  • Limited integrations with 3rd party apps
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Acumatica Distribution is a comprehensive software solution designed to streamline distribution management processes for businesses. It is particularly well-suited for small to medium-sized enterprises looking to optimize their supply chain, inventory, order management, and purchasing operations. One of the key benefits of Acumatica Distribution is its ability to enhance operational efficiency and provide real-time visibility into inventory levels, order status, and shipment schedules. This software stands out for its user-friendly interface and flexible customization options, allowing businesses to tailor the system to their specific needs. Compared to similar products in the market, users often praise Acumatica Distribution for its scalability and the seamless integration with other business systems, which supports growth without the need for frequent software changes. Pricing for Acumatica Distribution varies based on the specific needs and size of the business, with costs typically structured around a subscription model that may include per-user or per-transaction fees, ensuring that businesses only pay for what they need.
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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
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Sovos ShipCompliant is an alcohol business management tool. It helps you comply with complex laws, whether you sell directly to customers or ship to stores. It automates permit checks and tax reports, saving you time and money. Plus, it sends real-time updates on regulations, so you're always in the know.

Businesses use the solution to:

  • Automate compliance checks and tax rate calculations.
  • Simplify reporting for state sales and excise taxes.
  • Manage licenses.
  • Integrate with prominent eCommerce, point-of-sale and fulfillment systems.
  • Automate product and brand label registrations.
  • Centralize project management and track state requirements and deadlines.

ShipCompliant is ideal for expanding market reach and ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations in the industry. It offers solutions for DTC shipping and three-tier distribution, with positive feedback on its integration capabilities with industry partners.

This software serves wineries, breweries, distilleries, importers, distributors and retailers. Users find it accurate and easy to use. Sovos doesn't make pricing public. Fees are based on your shipment volumes and required features.

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Product Assistance

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Product Ranking

#8

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#81

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#125

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#59

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#30

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Analyst Rating Summary

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Inventory Management
Customer Relationship Management
E-commerce Capabilities
Reports, Dashboards and Business Intelligence
Mobile capabilities
Accounting and Financial Management
Inventory Management
Purchase Order Management and Procurement
Customer Relationship Management
Reports, Dashboards and Business Intelligence
Purchase Order Management and Procurement
Reports, Dashboards and Business Intelligence
Inventory Management
Sales Order Management
Accounting and Financial Management
Inventory Management
Accounting and Financial Management
Reports, Dashboards and Business Intelligence
Mobile capabilities
Purchase Order Management and Procurement
Accounting and Financial Management
Inventory Management
Purchase Order Management and Procurement
Customer Relationship Management
Reports, Dashboards and Business Intelligence

Analyst Ratings for Functional Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

Prophet 21
Blue Link ERP
Acumatica Distribution
Epicor Eclipse
ShipCompliant
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Accounting and Financial Management Customer Relationship Management E-commerce Capabilities Integrations and Extensibility Inventory Management Mobile capabilities Purchase Order Management and Procurement Reports, Dashboards and Business Intelligence Sales Order Management Warehouse and Transportation Management 91 96 96 50 98 95 86 96 91 76 88 76 60 78 90 84 95 91 89 81 91 72 83 44 94 87 87 88 80 77 0 25 50 75 100
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User Sentiment Summary

Great User Sentiment 158 reviews
Good User Sentiment 31 reviews
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Great User Sentiment 140 reviews
Excellent User Sentiment 27 reviews
82%
of users recommend this product

Prophet 21 has a 'great' User Satisfaction Rating of 82% when considering 158 user reviews from 3 recognized software review sites.

79%
of users recommend this product

Blue Link ERP has a 'good' User Satisfaction Rating of 79% when considering 31 user reviews from 2 recognized software review sites.

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85%
of users recommend this product

Epicor Eclipse has a 'great' User Satisfaction Rating of 85% when considering 140 user reviews from 5 recognized software review sites.

90%
of users recommend this product

ShipCompliant has a 'excellent' User Satisfaction Rating of 90% when considering 27 user reviews from 2 recognized software review sites.

3.9 (82)
3.0 (1)
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3.9 (27)
4.2 (8)
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Awards

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User Favorite Award

Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

Comprehensive Customization: The solution offers extensive customization, according to 84% of users. It’s versatile and can customize many fields and screens.
Usability: According to 89% of users who reviewed this pro, the solution is easy to use. Navigating the system through the function menus is intuitive.
Integration: About 100% of users who mentioned this pro said it provides advanced integration capabilities. Integration with credit card processing and sales tax software enables the business to conduct financial analysis in a hassle-free manner.
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Streamlined Workflow: Intuitive interface simplifies daily tasks and reduces training time.
Accurate Inventory: Real-time stock visibility and tracking minimize errors and optimize fulfillment.
Actionable Insights: Powerful reporting tools generate valuable data to drive informed business decisions.
Tailored Features: Industry-specific modules cater to unique distribution needs and challenges.
Cost-Effective Solution: Competitive pricing and subscription model offer excellent value for growing businesses.
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Inventory Management: Acumatica provides real-time inventory visibility across multiple locations, allowing businesses to optimize stock levels and reduce carrying costs. The platform also supports barcode scanning and mobile devices for efficient warehouse operations.
Order Management: Streamline the entire order-to-cash process, from order entry and fulfillment to invoicing and payment processing. Acumatica enables businesses to automate order workflows, track shipments, and manage customer returns effectively.
Purchasing: Acumatica simplifies procurement processes by automating purchase order creation, vendor management, and invoice processing. The system helps businesses negotiate better pricing, track purchase histories, and ensure timely deliveries.
Reporting and Analytics: Gain insights into key distribution metrics with Acumatica's comprehensive reporting and analytics tools. Businesses can track sales performance, inventory turnover, and other KPIs to make data-driven decisions.
Scalability and Flexibility: Acumatica is a cloud-based solution that can scale to meet the changing needs of growing businesses. The platform is also highly customizable, allowing companies to tailor the system to their specific requirements.
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Improved Inventory Visibility: Gain real-time insights into stock levels across locations for better management and reduced lead times.
Streamlined Order Management: Simplify order processing from quotes to returns with a centralized platform.
Enhanced Warehouse Efficiency: Optimize operations with barcode scanning, pick-and-pack functionality, and shipping management tools.
Actionable Insights: Make data-driven decisions with comprehensive reporting and analytics dashboards.
Seamless Integration: Eliminate data silos with integration capabilities connecting Eclipse to other enterprise systems.
Scalability and Growth: Accommodate future business expansion with a scalable platform that adapts to changing demands.
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Save time by automating processes.
Track of inventory in real time.
Improve customer service with quick access to information.
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Limited Scalability: While Prophet 21 offers robust features, its scalability may not be sufficient for rapidly growing businesses or those with complex distribution networks.
Steep Learning Curve: The user interface and features of Prophet 21 can be complex and require significant training for users to become proficient.
Customization Challenges: While Prophet 21 offers some customization options, it may not be flexible enough for businesses with unique needs or workflows.
Limited Third-Party Integrations: Compared to other ERP solutions, Prophet 21 may have a smaller selection of pre-built integrations with popular third-party applications.
High Implementation Costs: The cost of implementing Prophet 21, including software licenses, hardware upgrades, and consulting services, can be significant for small and medium-sized businesses.
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Limited Flexibility: Difficulty in tailoring workflows and reports to specific needs.
Integration Gaps: Fewer third-party app integrations compared to competitors, hindering data flow.
Occasional Bugs: Users report occasional technical issues, especially during peak usage.
Reporting Restrictions: Complex customization of reports requires technical expertise or external support.
Steeper Learning Curve: Certain modules, like warehouse management, may require more training.
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Customization Challenges: Acumatica can be difficult to customize for specific business processes, especially for users without extensive coding experience. Some users find the customization tools to be complex and time-consuming.
Reporting Limitations: Generating custom reports or modifying existing ones can be challenging. Users may need to rely on third-party reporting tools or developers to get the insights they need, which can add to the overall cost and complexity.
Mobile App Functionality: The mobile app's functionality may be limited compared to the desktop version, making it less suitable for users who require full access to features while on the go. This can hinder productivity and efficiency for mobile workforces.
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Implementation Complexity: Initial setup and configuration can be complex, requiring significant IT resources and expertise.
Customization Costs: Extensive customization can be expensive, especially for businesses with unique needs.
Steep Learning Curve: The platform has a steep learning curve, requiring user training and ongoing support.
Limited Reporting Flexibility: While reporting capabilities are comprehensive, some users may find them inflexible for specific needs.
Integration Challenges: Integrating with certain third-party applications can be complex and require additional development.
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High initial costs and ongoing maintenance expenses.
Challenges with implementation and potential disruptions to operations.
Heavy reliance on technology and risk of system failures.
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User reviews of Epicor Prophet 21 paint a mixed picture, highlighting both its strengths and weaknesses. Many users praise its robust features and functionality, particularly for sales, purchasing, and inventory control. One user describes it as "really easy to navigate and one of the better ERP systems out there." Others appreciate its deep functionalities and flexibility, noting how it can be tailored to specific business needs. One user commented, "The strong and multiple functionalities from P21 allowed us to address all aspects in a 'deep enough' manner." However, some users also raise concerns about Prophet 21's complexity and learning curve. One user found it "impossible to work with and antiquated," while another said it takes "a minute to understand" and requires patience. This complexity can be a significant drawback for smaller businesses or those with limited IT resources. Some users also criticize its scalability, suggesting it might not be suitable for rapidly growing businesses or those with complex distribution networks. Additionally, the limited number of pre-built third-party integrations compared to other ERP solutions can hinder integration with existing business applications. This lack of seamless integration can lead to manual data entry and inefficient workflows. Despite these weaknesses, many users believe Prophet 21's strengths outweigh its weaknesses, especially for mid-sized distribution companies. They particularly value its ease of use compared to competitors like Infor M3, which one user described as "too big for the business." Furthermore, users appreciate the exceptional partnership and responsive customer service offered by Epicor, which helps overcome initial challenges with implementation and customization. Overall, user reviews suggest that Prophet 21 is a powerful and flexible ERP solution, particularly for mid-sized distributors. However, its complexity and limited scalability may pose challenges for smaller businesses or those with rapid growth plans. Considering the trade-offs and carefully evaluating your specific needs is crucial before making a decision.

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User reviews for Blue Link ERP paint a mixed picture, highlighting both its strengths and limitations. Many users praise its user-friendly interface and robust inventory control, noting that it simplifies daily tasks and improves accuracy compared to manual systems. One user stated, "Switching to Blue Link felt like stepping into the future. Inventory tracking is a breeze, and I can finally see real-time stock levels." However, some users express frustration with limited customization options, making it difficult to tailor workflows and reports to specific needs. "The reporting features are powerful, but customizing them beyond basic templates is a real headache," commented another user. This lack of flexibility can be a dealbreaker for businesses with unique processes. Integration with third-party apps is another point of contention. While Blue Link offers some integrations, users often compare it unfavorably to competitors with wider ecosystems. "I switched to [competitor name] because it connects seamlessly with my CRM and shipping software. Blue Link just didn't have the same level of integration." This can be a significant drawback for businesses relying on a connected data flow. Despite these limitations, many users appreciate Blue Link's value for price, particularly its subscription-based model. "Compared to other ERP systems, Blue Link is surprisingly affordable, especially for smaller distributors like us," said one user. This makes it a viable option for businesses on a budget. Overall, user reviews suggest Blue Link ERP is a solid choice for small and medium-sized distributors seeking a user-friendly and cost-effective solution. However, businesses with complex workflows or heavy reliance on third-party integrations might need to consider alternatives offering greater flexibility and connectivity.

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Acumatica Distribution has garnered positive feedback from users for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features, making it a valuable tool for businesses of all sizes. Users appreciate the software's ability to streamline distribution operations, enhancing efficiency and productivity. The exceptional customer support provided by Acumatica further contributes to the positive user experience. Compared to similar products, Acumatica Distribution stands out due to its cloud-based nature, offering flexibility and accessibility from any location. The software's scalability allows it to adapt to the evolving needs of businesses as they grow. Additionally, Acumatica Distribution's seamless integration with other business systems, such as accounting and CRM platforms, eliminates data silos and enhances overall operational efficiency. While some users have mentioned a slight learning curve associated with the software's extensive features, the available resources and customer support effectively address this challenge. Acumatica Distribution is an ideal solution for businesses seeking a cloud-based distribution management software that prioritizes ease of use, comprehensive functionality, and exceptional customer support. Its scalability and integration capabilities make it suitable for businesses of all sizes, from small startups to large enterprises. Whether you need to manage inventory, streamline order processing, or gain real-time visibility into your distribution operations, Acumatica Distribution provides the tools and support necessary to optimize your supply chain and achieve your business goals.

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Epicor Eclipse receives mixed reviews from users, with praise for its comprehensive features and positive impact on business efficiency, but criticism for its complex implementation and steep learning curve. Many users find its real-time inventory visibility and centralized order management particularly valuable, enabling them to optimize stock levels, streamline operations, and improve customer service. One user noted, “Inventory management has become much more efficient, and we've seen a significant reduction in lead times.” Others appreciate its reporting and analytics capabilities, highlighting actionable insights for data-driven decision-making. However, some users find initial set-up and configuration demanding, requiring significant IT resources and expertise. This complexity, coupled with the platform’s steep learning curve, can lead to frustration and hinder adoption. Additionally, while customization options are available, they can be costly and time-consuming, making them less appealing for smaller businesses or those with limited budgets. When compared to similar products like NetSuite and Microsoft Dynamics 365, Epicor Eclipse often stands out for its industry-specific functionalities and focus on distribution needs. One user commented, "Compared to NetSuite, Eclipse offers a more robust warehouse management system and better support for our specific industry requirements." However, these strengths come at the cost of ease of use and implementation simplicity, making it a less attractive option for businesses seeking a more user-friendly solution. Ultimately, user experience with Epicor Eclipse depends on individual needs and priorities. Those seeking a comprehensive and industry-specific solution with strong inventory management capabilities are likely to find it valuable, despite its implementation challenges. However, businesses requiring a more user-friendly and readily deployable system may find alternatives like NetSuite or Microsoft Dynamics 365 to be a better fit.

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Sovos ShipCompliant is a powerful tool for alcohol businesses looking to simplify compliance, automate tax processes and streamline operations. It offers tailored solutions for wineries, breweries and distilleries.Users consistently praise its extensive compliance features for navigating complex laws. However, some find the interface unfriendly and want more integration options.While the platform may be costly for small businesses, its ability to automate taxation and reporting could make it worth the investment.Industry professionals often seek data to understand shipping trends, consumer preferences and sales performance. I found that ShipCompliant's resource center leads the way for information gathering.They prioritize their educational resources to ensure that customers fully understand direct-to-consumer (DTC) reports, ever-evolving regulations and the process of brand label registrations.Sovos ShipCompliant sets itself apart from rivals such as WineDirect Compliance or Vinoshipper by catering to a broader market beyond wineries. It offers extensive integrations and comprehensive compliance features with automated tax filing.Based on this comparison, I found it to be the ideal solution for businesses in the alcoholic beverage industry looking for a versatile and reliable DTC shipping compliance platform.

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Top Alternatives in Distribution Software


Acumatica Distribution

Aptean ERP

Epicor Eclipse

ERP-One

Fishbowl Warehouse

IFS

Infor CloudSuite Distribution

Inform ERP

JD Edwards EnterpriseOne

NetSuite

Oracle Fusion Cloud

Sage X3

SAP S/4HANA Cloud

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