Quick Overview
- 1#1: E2 Shop System - All-in-one ERP software for job shops and custom manufacturers handling quoting, scheduling, inventory, purchasing, and quality control.
- 2#2: JobBOSS² - Comprehensive shop management solution designed for make-to-order and custom fabrication businesses with robust quoting and production tracking.
- 3#3: Global Shop Solutions - Integrated ERP system optimized for custom and job shop manufacturing featuring advanced scheduling, CRM, and real-time shop floor control.
- 4#4: ProShop ERP - Quality management-focused ERP/MES for high-mix, low-volume custom manufacturers integrating quoting, planning, and compliance tracking.
- 5#5: MRPeasy - Cloud-based MRP/ERP for small custom manufacturers streamlining production planning, inventory management, and order fulfillment.
- 6#6: Katana MRP - Real-time inventory and manufacturing planning software for custom makers and job shops with live sales-production sync.
- 7#7: Fishbowl - Advanced inventory control software with manufacturing add-ons for custom production, multi-location tracking, and QuickBooks integration.
- 8#8: Fulcrum - Shop floor execution software providing real-time data capture and workflow automation for custom manufacturing operations.
- 9#9: Prodsmart - Cloud MES delivering paperless production tracking, downtime analysis, and performance insights for custom manufacturers.
- 10#10: MIE Trak Pro - Modular ERP suite for job shops supporting quoting, scheduling, CAD/CAM integration, and enterprise-wide custom manufacturing management.
These tools were chosen for their robust feature sets—including advanced scheduling, quality tracking, and real-time data sync—alongside user-friendly design and proven value. We prioritized platforms that adapt to diverse operational scales, ensuring versatility for small custom producers and enterprise-level job shops alike, while evaluating performance, reliability, and overall utility.
Comparison Table
Custom manufacturing requires tailored software, and this comparison table breaks down top tools like E2 Shop System, JobBOSS², Global Shop Solutions, ProShop ERP, MRPeasy, and more to help users identify the best fit for their unique needs. Readers will learn key features, usability, and suitability across operational workflows to make informed decisions.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | E2 Shop System All-in-one ERP software for job shops and custom manufacturers handling quoting, scheduling, inventory, purchasing, and quality control. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 2 | JobBOSS² Comprehensive shop management solution designed for make-to-order and custom fabrication businesses with robust quoting and production tracking. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 3 | Global Shop Solutions Integrated ERP system optimized for custom and job shop manufacturing featuring advanced scheduling, CRM, and real-time shop floor control. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | ProShop ERP Quality management-focused ERP/MES for high-mix, low-volume custom manufacturers integrating quoting, planning, and compliance tracking. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | MRPeasy Cloud-based MRP/ERP for small custom manufacturers streamlining production planning, inventory management, and order fulfillment. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 6 | Katana MRP Real-time inventory and manufacturing planning software for custom makers and job shops with live sales-production sync. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | Fishbowl Advanced inventory control software with manufacturing add-ons for custom production, multi-location tracking, and QuickBooks integration. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 8 | Fulcrum Shop floor execution software providing real-time data capture and workflow automation for custom manufacturing operations. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 9 | Prodsmart Cloud MES delivering paperless production tracking, downtime analysis, and performance insights for custom manufacturers. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | MIE Trak Pro Modular ERP suite for job shops supporting quoting, scheduling, CAD/CAM integration, and enterprise-wide custom manufacturing management. | enterprise | 7.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.0/10 |
All-in-one ERP software for job shops and custom manufacturers handling quoting, scheduling, inventory, purchasing, and quality control.
Comprehensive shop management solution designed for make-to-order and custom fabrication businesses with robust quoting and production tracking.
Integrated ERP system optimized for custom and job shop manufacturing featuring advanced scheduling, CRM, and real-time shop floor control.
Quality management-focused ERP/MES for high-mix, low-volume custom manufacturers integrating quoting, planning, and compliance tracking.
Cloud-based MRP/ERP for small custom manufacturers streamlining production planning, inventory management, and order fulfillment.
Real-time inventory and manufacturing planning software for custom makers and job shops with live sales-production sync.
Advanced inventory control software with manufacturing add-ons for custom production, multi-location tracking, and QuickBooks integration.
Shop floor execution software providing real-time data capture and workflow automation for custom manufacturing operations.
Cloud MES delivering paperless production tracking, downtime analysis, and performance insights for custom manufacturers.
Modular ERP suite for job shops supporting quoting, scheduling, CAD/CAM integration, and enterprise-wide custom manufacturing management.
E2 Shop System
enterpriseAll-in-one ERP software for job shops and custom manufacturers handling quoting, scheduling, inventory, purchasing, and quality control.
RouteAdvisor dynamic scheduling engine that auto-generates optimal routings in real-time based on machine availability, labor, and priorities
E2 Shop System by ShopTech is a robust ERP solution purpose-built for job shops and custom manufacturers, handling everything from instant quoting and order management to production scheduling, inventory tracking, and integrated accounting. It delivers real-time shop floor visibility through tools like ShopVue, enabling dynamic dispatching and paperless operations to minimize downtime and boost efficiency. Designed for make-to-order environments, it supports quality management, CRM, and financial reporting in a single platform.
Pros
- Tailored specifically for job shops with deep custom manufacturing functionality
- Real-time dispatching and shop floor control for superior efficiency
- Proven quick implementation and excellent ongoing support
Cons
- User interface appears somewhat dated compared to modern cloud-native apps
- Pricing requires a custom quote, lacking transparency
- Scalability challenges for enterprises beyond mid-sized operations
Best For
Small to mid-sized job shops and make-to-order manufacturers needing an industry-specific ERP with real-time production control.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing with modular perpetual licenses or subscriptions; typically $150-$300 per user/month for core modules, including implementation fees.
JobBOSS²
enterpriseComprehensive shop management solution designed for make-to-order and custom fabrication businesses with robust quoting and production tracking.
Advanced estimating and quoting engine with built-in configurators for handling intricate custom job specifications
JobBOSS² by ECI Software Solutions is a robust ERP and shop management platform tailored for job shops and custom manufacturers, handling everything from quoting and order entry to production scheduling, inventory control, quality management, and integrated accounting. It provides real-time shop floor visibility through MES capabilities, enabling precise job tracking and resource optimization for make-to-order environments. The software supports complex manufacturing processes with customizable workflows and extensive reporting tools.
Pros
- Comprehensive end-to-end functionality from quoting to invoicing
- Strong job costing and real-time shop floor tracking
- Highly customizable for diverse custom manufacturing needs
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- Implementation can take several months
- Pricing lacks transparency and can be high for small shops
Best For
Mid-sized job shops and custom manufacturers requiring integrated ERP with shop floor control for complex, make-to-order production.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; typically starts at $5,000+ per month for mid-sized implementations, depending on users, modules, and deployment (cloud or on-premise).
Global Shop Solutions
enterpriseIntegrated ERP system optimized for custom and job shop manufacturing featuring advanced scheduling, CRM, and real-time shop floor control.
Instant Quoting Engine that generates accurate job quotes in seconds using historical data and configurable rules
Global Shop Solutions is a comprehensive ERP and MES software platform tailored for custom manufacturers, job shops, and make-to-order operations. It streamlines processes from instant quoting and order management to advanced production scheduling, real-time shop floor tracking, inventory control, and quality assurance. The system integrates financials, CRM, and HR modules, providing end-to-end visibility and automation for complex manufacturing environments.
Pros
- Powerful quoting and estimating tools optimized for custom jobs with rapid turnaround
- Real-time shop floor data collection and MES integration for precise production control
- Robust inventory management and material requirements planning (MRP) for complex bills of materials
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features and customizable interface
- Pricing can be high for smaller shops with lengthy implementation times
- Limited mobile app functionality compared to modern cloud-native competitors
Best For
Mid-sized job shops and custom manufacturers needing integrated ERP/MES for handling variable, make-to-order production.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing starting at around $1,200 per month for basic setups, scaling to $5,000+ for full modules and users; includes implementation fees often exceeding $50,000.
ProShop ERP
enterpriseQuality management-focused ERP/MES for high-mix, low-volume custom manufacturers integrating quoting, planning, and compliance tracking.
Integrated electronic quality travelers with automatic data collection and SPC for full process traceability
ProShop ERP is a web-based ERP/MRP system tailored for custom manufacturers, especially in precision industries like aerospace, medical devices, and job shops. It handles the full lifecycle from instant quoting and order management to advanced scheduling, shop floor execution, inventory control, and shipping with full traceability. Key strengths include paperless electronic travelers, real-time data collection, and integrated quality management for compliance-heavy environments.
Pros
- Deeply customized for precision custom manufacturing workflows
- Superior quality management with SPC, CMM integration, and compliance tools
- Real-time shop floor visibility and paperless operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features
- Higher pricing and implementation costs
- May overwhelm very small shops without dedicated IT support
Best For
Mid-sized custom manufacturers in regulated industries like aerospace and medical needing comprehensive traceability and quality control.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription, typically $100-250 per user/month plus one-time implementation fees starting at $20K+.
MRPeasy
enterpriseCloud-based MRP/ERP for small custom manufacturers streamlining production planning, inventory management, and order fulfillment.
Visual Gantt chart production scheduler with automatic infinite rescheduling based on capacity and material availability
MRPeasy is a cloud-based MRP (Material Requirements Planning) software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers, especially those handling custom, make-to-order, and engineer-to-order production. It provides end-to-end visibility through features like production scheduling, inventory management, BOM handling, procurement, CRM, and basic accounting. The platform emphasizes real-time data and automation to streamline operations, reduce stockouts, and improve on-time delivery for discrete manufacturing environments.
Pros
- Intuitive, visual interface with drag-and-drop scheduling that's easy for non-technical users
- Strong multi-level BOM support and automated MRP for custom manufacturing workflows
- Real-time shop floor reporting via mobile app for accurate production tracking
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly with users, less ideal for very small teams
- Reporting and analytics lack depth for complex custom needs
- Limited native integrations with advanced CAD/CAM or industry-specific tools
Best For
Small to midsize custom manufacturers needing an accessible all-in-one MRP without enterprise complexity.
Pricing
Starts at $49/user/month (Basic), $59/user/month (Production), $79/user/month (Full); annual billing required, custom enterprise plans available.
Katana MRP
specializedReal-time inventory and manufacturing planning software for custom makers and job shops with live sales-production sync.
Visual production scheduler that automatically generates and prioritizes manufacturing orders from incoming sales data
Katana MRP is a cloud-based manufacturing resource planning (MRP) software tailored for small to medium-sized custom manufacturers, offering real-time inventory tracking, production scheduling, and order management. It handles complex bills of materials (BOMs), multi-location stock visibility, and automates workflows from sales orders to fulfillment. With seamless integrations to e-commerce platforms like Shopify and accounting tools like QuickBooks, it simplifies make-to-order and make-to-stock processes for custom production environments.
Pros
- Real-time multi-location inventory tracking prevents stockouts
- Intuitive drag-and-drop production planning interface
- Robust integrations with Shopify, QuickBooks, and Xero
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly for high-volume users
- Limited advanced analytics and custom reporting
- Some enterprise-level MRP features require custom setup
Best For
Small to medium custom manufacturers needing an easy-to-use MRP for inventory and production without complex IT setup.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Essentials, up to 100 orders), $299/month (Professional), custom Enterprise pricing.
Fishbowl
enterpriseAdvanced inventory control software with manufacturing add-ons for custom production, multi-location tracking, and QuickBooks integration.
Native, two-way QuickBooks synchronization for real-time financial and inventory data flow
Fishbowl is a comprehensive inventory management software with strong manufacturing modules tailored for small to midsize businesses in custom manufacturing. It supports bills of materials (BOMs), work orders, production scheduling, and multi-location inventory tracking, enabling efficient make-to-order processes. The platform excels in barcode scanning, lot/serial number tracking, and seamless integration with QuickBooks for real-time accounting synchronization.
Pros
- Deep QuickBooks integration for automated accounting
- Robust manufacturing tools including BOMs and work orders
- Advanced inventory tracking with lot/serial and multi-location support
Cons
- Dated user interface requiring training
- Complex initial setup and customization
- Limited native advanced forecasting and MRP without add-ons
Best For
Small to midsize custom manufacturers relying on QuickBooks who need affordable inventory and production management.
Pricing
Quote-based; one-time license starts at ~$4,395 for standard edition + $1,295/year maintenance, or subscription from ~$439/user/month.
Fulcrum
specializedShop floor execution software providing real-time data capture and workflow automation for custom manufacturing operations.
AI-driven instant quoting engine that analyzes uploaded CAD files for feasibility, pricing, and lead times across 20+ processes
Fulcrum (fulcrum.co) is an AI-powered marketplace platform designed for custom manufacturing, connecting engineers and designers with a global network of vetted manufacturers. Users upload CAD files to receive instant quotes, production timelines, and direct ordering for processes like CNC machining, 3D printing, urethane casting, and injection molding. It simplifies sourcing by handling design analysis, feasibility checks, and quality assurance, making it ideal for prototyping and low-volume production.
Pros
- Instant AI-powered quoting from CAD uploads reduces sourcing time dramatically
- Broad support for multiple manufacturing processes and materials
- Vetted global manufacturer network ensures quality and reliability
Cons
- Transactional pricing can add platform fees on top of manufacturing costs
- Limited advanced ERP or inventory management integrations
- Relies on partner manufacturers' capacity, which may cause delays
Best For
Product designers, engineers, and small teams seeking fast prototyping and low-volume custom parts without building supplier relationships.
Pricing
Free for quoting and account setup; production costs are per-part with platform margin included (typically 10-20% markup on manufacturer quotes).
Prodsmart
specializedCloud MES delivering paperless production tracking, downtime analysis, and performance insights for custom manufacturers.
Live interactive dashboards on rugged mobile devices for paperless, real-time WIP tracking and operator guidance
Prodsmart is a cloud-based Manufacturing Execution System (MES) tailored for custom and make-to-order manufacturers, providing real-time shop floor visibility and production control. It enables paperless operations through mobile devices for data capture, job tracking, scheduling, and quality management. The platform integrates with ERPs to optimize workflows, reduce waste, and improve OEE in dynamic custom production environments.
Pros
- Real-time production tracking and dashboards for instant bottleneck identification
- Mobile-first, intuitive interface for shop floor workers with barcode/RFID support
- Strong OEE analytics and ERP integrations for custom manufacturing efficiency
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly with users/production lines, potentially costly for small shops
- Limited native advanced planning tools; relies on ERP for complex scheduling
- Reporting customization requires professional services
Best For
Small to mid-sized custom job shops needing quick shop floor digitization and real-time visibility without extensive IT setup.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting around $750/month for basic setups, scaling with users, devices, and production volume.
MIE Trak Pro
enterpriseModular ERP suite for job shops supporting quoting, scheduling, CAD/CAM integration, and enterprise-wide custom manufacturing management.
Automated CAD/CAM-integrated quoting engine for rapid, accurate estimate generation from design files
MIE Trak Pro is an enterprise-grade ERP and MES software tailored for custom manufacturers, job shops, and contract manufacturers handling make-to-order production. It provides end-to-end functionality including advanced quoting from CAD files, production scheduling, real-time shop floor control, inventory management, quality assurance, and CRM/accounting integration. The system excels in complex manufacturing environments requiring precise job tracking and cost control.
Pros
- Powerful quoting and estimating directly from CAD/CAM files
- Comprehensive shop floor control with real-time data collection
- Modular architecture allows scalable customization for specific manufacturing needs
Cons
- Steep learning curve and dated user interface
- Primarily on-premise deployment with limited cloud flexibility
- High implementation costs and time requirements
Best For
Mid-sized custom manufacturers and job shops needing robust production tracking and quoting in complex, make-to-order environments.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting around $25,000-$50,000+ depending on modules, users, and implementation; annual maintenance extra.
Conclusion
The reviewed software offers tailored solutions for custom manufacturing, with the top-ranked E2 Shop System leading for its all-in-one ERP capabilities in quoting, scheduling, and quality control. JobBOSS² and Global Shop Solutions follow as strong alternatives, each excelling in specific areas like production tracking and integrated workflow management. Together, they highlight the importance of choosing the right tool to align with operational needs.
Take the next step in streamlining your operations by trying E2 Shop System, the top choice for efficient custom manufacturing management.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison