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Manufacturing Engineering

Top 10 Best Cloud Based Production Management Software of 2026

Discover top 10 cloud-based production management software for efficient workflows. Compare features & choose best fit for your business needs today.

Alexander Schmidt

Alexander Schmidt

Feb 11, 2026

10 tools comparedExpert reviewed
Independent evaluation · Unbiased commentary · Updated regularly
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In the modern manufacturing sector, cloud-based production management software is a critical driver of operational excellence, offering real-time visibility, seamless integration, and scalable workflows. With a spectrum of tools suited to small to large manufacturers—from inventory control to end-to-end production tracking—choosing the right solution directly impacts efficiency, cost, and competitiveness, making this compilation essential for those seeking to optimize their processes.

Quick Overview

  1. 1#1: Katana - Cloud-native MRP software that streamlines inventory, production planning, and sales orders for small to medium manufacturers.
  2. 2#2: MRPeasy - Cloud-based MRP system designed for small manufacturers to manage production scheduling, inventory, and procurement efficiently.
  3. 3#3: Prodsmart - Real-time cloud manufacturing execution system for shop floor control, tracking production and improving operational efficiency.
  4. 4#4: Fishbowl - Cloud inventory and manufacturing management software integrating with QuickBooks for order fulfillment and production tracking.
  5. 5#5: Odoo - Open-source cloud ERP with comprehensive manufacturing modules for planning, tracking, and quality control of production processes.
  6. 6#6: Plex - Smart cloud manufacturing platform providing MES, ERP, and QMS functionalities for end-to-end production management.
  7. 7#7: NetSuite - Cloud ERP solution with advanced manufacturing features for demand planning, production management, and supply chain optimization.
  8. 8#8: Acumatica - Cloud ERP platform offering distribution and manufacturing editions for inventory control and production order management.
  9. 9#9: Epicor Kinetic - Cloud-based ERP system tailored for discrete and make-to-order manufacturers to handle complex production workflows.
  10. 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.

1Katana logo9.4/10

Cloud-native MRP software that streamlines inventory, production planning, and sales orders for small to medium manufacturers.

Features
9.5/10
Ease
9.6/10
Value
9.1/10
2MRPeasy logo9.1/10

Cloud-based MRP system designed for small manufacturers to manage production scheduling, inventory, and procurement efficiently.

Features
9.3/10
Ease
9.2/10
Value
8.9/10
3Prodsmart logo8.7/10

Real-time cloud manufacturing execution system for shop floor control, tracking production and improving operational efficiency.

Features
9.1/10
Ease
8.4/10
Value
8.2/10
4Fishbowl logo8.2/10

Cloud inventory and manufacturing management software integrating with QuickBooks for order fulfillment and production tracking.

Features
8.5/10
Ease
7.4/10
Value
8.0/10
5Odoo logo8.7/10

Open-source cloud ERP with comprehensive manufacturing modules for planning, tracking, and quality control of production processes.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
7.8/10
Value
9.0/10
6Plex logo8.4/10

Smart cloud manufacturing platform providing MES, ERP, and QMS functionalities for end-to-end production management.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
7.8/10
Value
8.1/10
7NetSuite logo8.2/10

Cloud ERP solution with advanced manufacturing features for demand planning, production management, and supply chain optimization.

Features
9.1/10
Ease
6.9/10
Value
7.4/10
8Acumatica logo8.1/10

Cloud ERP platform offering distribution and manufacturing editions for inventory control and production order management.

Features
8.5/10
Ease
7.6/10
Value
8.0/10

Cloud-based ERP system tailored for discrete and make-to-order manufacturers to handle complex production workflows.

Features
9.0/10
Ease
7.1/10
Value
7.8/10
10ERPNext logo7.8/10

Open-source cloud ERP with built-in manufacturing module for production planning, BOM management, and work orders.

Features
8.2/10
Ease
7.0/10
Value
9.5/10
1
Katana logo

Katana

specialized

Cloud-native MRP software that streamlines inventory, production planning, and sales orders for small to medium manufacturers.

Overall Rating9.4/10
Features
9.5/10
Ease of Use
9.6/10
Value
9.1/10
Standout Feature

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.

Visit Katanakatana.io
2
MRPeasy logo

MRPeasy

specialized

Cloud-based MRP system designed for small manufacturers to manage production scheduling, inventory, and procurement efficiently.

Overall Rating9.1/10
Features
9.3/10
Ease of Use
9.2/10
Value
8.9/10
Standout Feature

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.

Visit MRPeasymrpeasy.com
3
Prodsmart logo

Prodsmart

specialized

Real-time cloud manufacturing execution system for shop floor control, tracking production and improving operational efficiency.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
9.1/10
Ease of Use
8.4/10
Value
8.2/10
Standout Feature

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).

Visit Prodsmartprodsmart.com
4
Fishbowl logo

Fishbowl

specialized

Cloud inventory and manufacturing management software integrating with QuickBooks for order fulfillment and production tracking.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
8.5/10
Ease of Use
7.4/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

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.

Visit Fishbowlfishbowlinventory.com
5
Odoo logo

Odoo

enterprise

Open-source cloud ERP with comprehensive manufacturing modules for planning, tracking, and quality control of production processes.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
7.8/10
Value
9.0/10
Standout Feature

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.

Visit Odooodoo.com
6
Plex logo

Plex

enterprise

Smart cloud manufacturing platform providing MES, ERP, and QMS functionalities for end-to-end production management.

Overall Rating8.4/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
7.8/10
Value
8.1/10
Standout Feature

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.

Visit Plexplex.com
7
NetSuite logo

NetSuite

enterprise

Cloud ERP solution with advanced manufacturing features for demand planning, production management, and supply chain optimization.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
9.1/10
Ease of Use
6.9/10
Value
7.4/10
Standout Feature

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.

Visit NetSuitenetsuite.com
8
Acumatica logo

Acumatica

enterprise

Cloud ERP platform offering distribution and manufacturing editions for inventory control and production order management.

Overall Rating8.1/10
Features
8.5/10
Ease of Use
7.6/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

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.

Visit Acumaticaacumatica.com
9
Epicor Kinetic logo

Epicor Kinetic

enterprise

Cloud-based ERP system tailored for discrete and make-to-order manufacturers to handle complex production workflows.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
9.0/10
Ease of Use
7.1/10
Value
7.8/10
Standout Feature

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.

10
ERPNext logo

ERPNext

enterprise

Open-source cloud ERP with built-in manufacturing module for production planning, BOM management, and work orders.

Overall Rating7.8/10
Features
8.2/10
Ease of Use
7.0/10
Value
9.5/10
Standout Feature

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.

Visit ERPNexterpnext.com

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.

Katana logo
Our Top Pick
Katana

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.