Quick Overview
- 1#1: Katana - Cloud-native MRP software that streamlines inventory, production planning, and sales orders for small to medium manufacturers.
- 2#2: MRPeasy - Cloud-based MRP system designed for small manufacturers to manage production scheduling, inventory, and procurement efficiently.
- 3#3: Prodsmart - Real-time cloud manufacturing execution system for shop floor control, tracking production and improving operational efficiency.
- 4#4: Fishbowl - Cloud inventory and manufacturing management software integrating with QuickBooks for order fulfillment and production tracking.
- 5#5: Odoo - Open-source cloud ERP with comprehensive manufacturing modules for planning, tracking, and quality control of production processes.
- 6#6: Plex - Smart cloud manufacturing platform providing MES, ERP, and QMS functionalities for end-to-end production management.
- 7#7: NetSuite - Cloud ERP solution with advanced manufacturing features for demand planning, production management, and supply chain optimization.
- 8#8: Acumatica - Cloud ERP platform offering distribution and manufacturing editions for inventory control and production order management.
- 9#9: Epicor Kinetic - Cloud-based ERP system tailored for discrete and make-to-order manufacturers to handle complex production workflows.
- 10#10: ERPNext - Open-source cloud ERP with built-in manufacturing module for production planning, BOM management, and work orders.
Tools were ranked based on feature relevance (such as production planning, MES capabilities, and ERP integration), platform reliability, user experience (including ease of onboarding and customization), and overall value relative to functionality, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of manufacturers, from discrete to make-to-order workflows.
Comparison Table
Cloud-based production management software simplifies operations, and this comparison table breaks down tools like Katana, MRPeasy, Prodsmart, Fishbowl, Odoo, and more to help businesses assess which best aligns with their unique workflow needs. Readers will gain insights into each solution’s key features, strengths, and ideal use cases, enabling informed choices to enhance efficiency and scalability.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Katana Cloud-native MRP software that streamlines inventory, production planning, and sales orders for small to medium manufacturers. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | MRPeasy Cloud-based MRP system designed for small manufacturers to manage production scheduling, inventory, and procurement efficiently. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 3 | Prodsmart Real-time cloud manufacturing execution system for shop floor control, tracking production and improving operational efficiency. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | Fishbowl Cloud inventory and manufacturing management software integrating with QuickBooks for order fulfillment and production tracking. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Odoo Open-source cloud ERP with comprehensive manufacturing modules for planning, tracking, and quality control of production processes. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 6 | Plex Smart cloud manufacturing platform providing MES, ERP, and QMS functionalities for end-to-end production management. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 7 | NetSuite Cloud ERP solution with advanced manufacturing features for demand planning, production management, and supply chain optimization. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.9/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 8 | Acumatica Cloud ERP platform offering distribution and manufacturing editions for inventory control and production order management. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Epicor Kinetic Cloud-based ERP system tailored for discrete and make-to-order manufacturers to handle complex production workflows. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | ERPNext Open-source cloud ERP with built-in manufacturing module for production planning, BOM management, and work orders. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 9.5/10 |
Cloud-native MRP software that streamlines inventory, production planning, and sales orders for small to medium manufacturers.
Cloud-based MRP system designed for small manufacturers to manage production scheduling, inventory, and procurement efficiently.
Real-time cloud manufacturing execution system for shop floor control, tracking production and improving operational efficiency.
Cloud inventory and manufacturing management software integrating with QuickBooks for order fulfillment and production tracking.
Open-source cloud ERP with comprehensive manufacturing modules for planning, tracking, and quality control of production processes.
Smart cloud manufacturing platform providing MES, ERP, and QMS functionalities for end-to-end production management.
Cloud ERP solution with advanced manufacturing features for demand planning, production management, and supply chain optimization.
Cloud ERP platform offering distribution and manufacturing editions for inventory control and production order management.
Cloud-based ERP system tailored for discrete and make-to-order manufacturers to handle complex production workflows.
Open-source cloud ERP with built-in manufacturing module for production planning, BOM management, and work orders.
Katana
specializedCloud-native MRP software that streamlines inventory, production planning, and sales orders for small to medium manufacturers.
Real-time MRP engine that automatically calculates and generates production and purchase orders based on live demand and inventory data
Katana (katana.io) is a cloud-based MRP and inventory management software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers, enabling real-time tracking of stock levels, production planning, and order fulfillment across multiple locations. It automates material requirements planning (MRP), generates purchase orders, and provides visual scheduling tools to optimize manufacturing workflows. With seamless integrations to platforms like Shopify, QuickBooks, and Xero, Katana helps businesses scale operations efficiently without the complexity of traditional ERPs.
Pros
- Intuitive visual production scheduler with drag-and-drop functionality
- Real-time multi-location inventory visibility and automated MRP
- Robust integrations with e-commerce, accounting, and sales platforms
Cons
- Limited advanced reporting and custom analytics compared to enterprise ERPs
- Higher tiers can become pricey for businesses with high order volumes
- Mobile app lacks some desktop features
Best For
Small to medium-sized manufacturers seeking a user-friendly, cloud-based solution for production planning, inventory control, and scaling operations.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Starter, up to 100 orders), $299/month (Pro), $799/month (Business), with custom Enterprise pricing.
MRPeasy
specializedCloud-based MRP system designed for small manufacturers to manage production scheduling, inventory, and procurement efficiently.
Dynamic visual production scheduling with automatic capacity leveling and drag-and-drop rescheduling
MRPeasy is a cloud-based MRP and ERP software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturing businesses, focusing on discrete, make-to-order, and make-to-stock production. It offers comprehensive tools for production planning, inventory management with lot and serial tracking, BOM handling, shop floor execution, and integrated sales, purchasing, and financial modules. The platform provides real-time visibility and automation to streamline operations without the complexity of enterprise-level systems.
Pros
- Intuitive interface requiring minimal training
- Real-time production scheduling with drag-and-drop Gantt charts
- Strong inventory and multi-level BOM management for SMBs
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics and custom reporting
- Customization options are somewhat restricted
- Higher-tier plans needed for full multi-site support
Best For
Small to medium-sized discrete manufacturers needing an affordable, user-friendly cloud MRP to manage production planning and inventory in real-time.
Pricing
Starts at €49/user/month (billed annually) for Basic, €99 for Gold, and custom Enterprise pricing.
Prodsmart
specializedReal-time cloud manufacturing execution system for shop floor control, tracking production and improving operational efficiency.
Zero-hardware data capture using any smartphone or tablet for instant shop floor updates
Prodsmart is a cloud-based Manufacturing Execution System (MES) tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers, offering real-time shop floor visibility and control. It enables production scheduling, job tracking, quality management, inventory control, and OEE monitoring through a mobile-first interface that uses standard smartphones and tablets for data capture, eliminating the need for specialized hardware. The platform supports traceability, downtime analysis, and integrations with ERPs like SAP and QuickBooks.
Pros
- Real-time production tracking and OEE insights without hardware costs
- Intuitive mobile app for shop floor workers
- Strong traceability and compliance tools for regulated industries
Cons
- Pricing requires custom quotes with limited transparency
- Reporting and advanced analytics could be more customizable
- Initial setup and integrations may require support assistance
Best For
Small to medium manufacturers needing affordable, hardware-free real-time production management and visibility.
Pricing
Custom pricing based on users and modules; typically starts at €300-€600/month for basic plans (contact sales for quote).
Fishbowl
specializedCloud inventory and manufacturing management software integrating with QuickBooks for order fulfillment and production tracking.
Deep, bidirectional QuickBooks integration that automatically syncs inventory, orders, and financial data in real-time
Fishbowl is a robust cloud-based inventory and production management software designed primarily for small to medium-sized manufacturers and distributors. It offers comprehensive tools for bill of materials (BOM) management, work orders, production scheduling, multi-location inventory tracking, and barcode scanning via its mobile app. The platform seamlessly integrates with QuickBooks, making it ideal for businesses already using that accounting system, while providing warehouse management and order fulfillment capabilities.
Pros
- Seamless, real-time integration with QuickBooks for accounting and inventory sync
- Strong manufacturing module with BOMs, routings, labor tracking, and production planning
- Multi-warehouse support and mobile barcode scanning for efficient operations
Cons
- Dated user interface that feels clunky compared to modern competitors
- Steep learning curve, especially for manufacturing setup and customization
- Pricing can escalate quickly with additional users and modules
Best For
Small to mid-sized manufacturers relying on QuickBooks who need integrated inventory control and basic production management.
Pricing
Cloud subscription starts at ~$4,395/year for base edition (1 user), scaling to $10,000+ annually with more users/modules; per-user add-ons ~$65/month.
Odoo
enterpriseOpen-source cloud ERP with comprehensive manufacturing modules for planning, tracking, and quality control of production processes.
Full-spectrum integration of production management with CRM, sales, inventory, and accounting in a single unified platform
Odoo is a versatile cloud-based ERP platform with a powerful Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP) module tailored for production management. It handles bill of materials (BOM), production scheduling, work orders, quality control, and maintenance, while integrating seamlessly with inventory, sales, purchasing, and accounting. This all-in-one solution enables manufacturers to streamline operations without juggling multiple tools, supporting both discrete and process manufacturing.
Pros
- Comprehensive MRP features including PLM, quality inspections, and predictive maintenance
- Highly modular and customizable via no-code Studio app
- Seamless integration with full ERP suite for end-to-end visibility
Cons
- Steep learning curve for complex configurations and customizations
- Performance issues possible with very large datasets without optimization
- Advanced features and apps locked behind Enterprise plans
Best For
Small to medium-sized manufacturers seeking an affordable, integrated ERP with robust production management capabilities.
Pricing
Free Community edition (self-hosted); Odoo Online starts at $24.90/user/month (Standard), Enterprise from $37.40/user/month with more apps and support.
Plex
enterpriseSmart cloud manufacturing platform providing MES, ERP, and QMS functionalities for end-to-end production management.
Machine Learning-driven Plex Flow for real-time quality predictions and automated process adjustments
Plex is a cloud-native manufacturing ERP and MES platform designed for smart manufacturing, integrating production planning, shop floor execution, quality management, and supply chain operations into a single system. It leverages IIoT connectivity for real-time data capture from machines, enabling predictive analytics, process optimization, and compliance tracking. Primarily targeted at discrete and mixed-mode manufacturers, Plex eliminates silos by providing a unified dashboard for end-to-end visibility.
Pros
- Real-time shop floor visibility and IIoT integration for proactive decision-making
- Fully configurable workflows without coding, scalable from SMB to enterprise
- Comprehensive module suite covering MES, ERP, QMS, and SCM in one cloud platform
Cons
- Steep initial setup and customization learning curve
- Pricing is quote-based and can escalate with modules/users for smaller firms
- Reporting and advanced analytics require add-ons or integrations
Best For
Mid-sized discrete manufacturers seeking an all-in-one cloud MES/ERP to digitize and optimize production processes.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting around $1,000/month for basic setups, scaling with users, modules, and production volume.
NetSuite
enterpriseCloud ERP solution with advanced manufacturing features for demand planning, production management, and supply chain optimization.
Advanced MRP and production routing with real-time WIP tracking integrated across the entire ERP suite
NetSuite is a comprehensive cloud-based ERP platform with robust production management modules designed for manufacturers. It handles demand planning, material requirements planning (MRP), production scheduling, shop floor management, inventory control, and quality assurance in a unified system. The software provides real-time visibility across the supply chain, integrating production data with financials, CRM, and e-commerce for end-to-end operations efficiency.
Pros
- Fully integrated ERP with production, financials, and supply chain modules
- Real-time analytics and customizable dashboards for production insights
- Scalable for mid-to-large enterprises with multi-location support
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation requiring expertise
- High cost with custom pricing that may not suit small businesses
- Overkill for simple production needs without full ERP utilization
Best For
Mid-sized to large manufacturers needing an all-in-one cloud ERP for integrated production and business management.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starting around $10,000-$20,000 annually for base plans, plus $99+ per user/month; requires quote.
Acumatica
enterpriseCloud ERP platform offering distribution and manufacturing editions for inventory control and production order management.
Unlimited users and infinite scalability without per-user costs, perfect for growing production teams
Acumatica is a cloud-based ERP platform with robust manufacturing modules designed for production management, including bills of materials (BOM), production orders, shop floor control, and inventory management. It enables real-time visibility into production processes, scheduling, and quality assurance while integrating seamlessly with financials, CRM, and distribution. Ideal for mid-sized manufacturers, it offers scalability without user limits, supporting complex multi-level BOMs and lean manufacturing workflows.
Pros
- Unlimited users with usage-based pricing for scalability
- Comprehensive manufacturing tools like multi-level BOM, routings, and production scheduling
- Real-time dashboards and mobile access for shop floor management
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to ERP complexity
- Implementation often requires partners and can take 3-6 months
- Pricing becomes costly for high-volume usage or advanced customizations
Best For
Mid-sized manufacturers seeking an integrated cloud ERP with strong production planning and execution capabilities.
Pricing
Usage-based subscription starting at ~$1,500/month (billed annually), scales with resources/transactions; no per-user fees.
Epicor Kinetic
enterpriseCloud-based ERP system tailored for discrete and make-to-order manufacturers to handle complex production workflows.
Epicor Connected Process Control for real-time shop floor monitoring and automated quality management
Epicor Kinetic is a comprehensive cloud-based ERP solution tailored for manufacturing and production management, offering tools for production planning, scheduling, inventory control, and shop floor execution. It supports discrete, process, and mixed-mode manufacturing with integrated MES capabilities for real-time visibility. The platform emphasizes scalability, customization via low-code tools, and industry-specific functionality for mid-market enterprises.
Pros
- Robust production management features including advanced scheduling and MES integration
- Cloud-native scalability with strong analytics and reporting
- Highly customizable with low-code tools and industry-specific modules
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial implementation
- Higher pricing suitable mainly for mid-to-large enterprises
- User interface can feel dated compared to modern SaaS alternatives
Best For
Mid-sized manufacturers in discrete or mixed-mode environments needing a full-featured ERP with deep production controls.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription pricing, typically $150-$300 per user/month depending on modules and deployment scale.
ERPNext
enterpriseOpen-source cloud ERP with built-in manufacturing module for production planning, BOM management, and work orders.
Open-source Production Plan optimizer that automates material requirements and scheduling across multiple orders
ERPNext is a comprehensive open-source ERP platform with robust cloud-based production management features, including bill of materials (BOM), production planning, work orders, shop floor tracking, and quality control. It integrates manufacturing processes with inventory, purchasing, sales, and accounting for end-to-end visibility. Deployable on Frappe Cloud, it suits businesses seeking flexible, scalable production oversight without high licensing fees.
Pros
- Highly customizable open-source architecture
- Strong production tools like multi-level BOM and real-time shop floor tracking
- Seamless integration across ERP modules for holistic manufacturing management
Cons
- Steep learning curve for setup and advanced configuration
- Community support primary; enterprise support requires paid add-ons
- Less polished UI compared to dedicated cloud MES solutions
Best For
Small to medium manufacturers needing affordable, customizable production management within a full ERP system.
Pricing
Free open-source core; Frappe Cloud hosting from $25/month (Standard plan) scaling to $500+/month for enterprise sites based on resources.
Conclusion
After evaluating leading cloud-based production management tools, Katana emerges as the top choice, streamlining inventory, production planning, and sales orders for small to medium manufacturers with its cloud-native design. MRPeasy follows, offering efficient scheduling, inventory, and procurement for smaller operations, while Prodsmart excels in real-time shop floor control to boost operational efficiency. Each of the top tools provides distinct advantages, catering to varied manufacturing needs.
Don’t miss out on Katana—its intuitive cloud-based platform can transform your production workflow, whether you run a small or growing manufacturing business. Explore its capabilities today to optimize your processes.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
