Quick Overview
- 1#1: Epicor Kinetic - Comprehensive cloud ERP platform designed for manufacturing and engineering firms, offering advanced project management, supply chain, and production planning.
- 2#2: IFS Cloud - Enterprise software suite excelling in engineering, asset management, and service operations with deep industry-specific functionality for complex projects.
- 3#3: Infor CloudSuite Industrial - Tailored ERP for engineer-to-order manufacturing, providing robust quoting, engineering change management, and production control.
- 4#4: SAP S/4HANA - Intelligent ERP system with engineering control center for BOM management, product lifecycle, and integrated manufacturing processes.
- 5#5: Oracle NetSuite - Cloud-based ERP with manufacturing edition supporting work orders, assemblies, and engineering project tracking for mid-sized firms.
- 6#6: Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management - Integrated ERP solution for engineering and production, featuring mixed-mode manufacturing, demand forecasting, and IoT-enabled operations.
- 7#7: SYSPRO - Flexible ERP for light manufacturing and engineering, emphasizing inventory control, CRM, and customizable workflows.
- 8#8: Deltek Costpoint - Project-based ERP for engineering and construction firms, specializing in government contracting, time tracking, and compliance.
- 9#9: QAD Adaptive ERP - Global manufacturing ERP focused on automotive and industrial engineering with adaptive planning and supply chain execution.
- 10#10: Plex Smart Manufacturing Platform - Cloud-native MES/ERP for discrete manufacturing and engineering, integrating quality, traceability, and real-time shop floor control.
These tools were selected based on their industry-specific functionality, integration capabilities, user experience, and ability to adapt to complex projects, ensuring they deliver measurable value across planning, execution, and compliance.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores top engineering ERP software tools such as Epicor Kinetic, IFS Cloud, Infor CloudSuite Industrial, SAP S/4HANA, Oracle NetSuite and more, examining key features, scalability, and industry focus to guide readers in selecting the right solution.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Epicor Kinetic Comprehensive cloud ERP platform designed for manufacturing and engineering firms, offering advanced project management, supply chain, and production planning. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | IFS Cloud Enterprise software suite excelling in engineering, asset management, and service operations with deep industry-specific functionality for complex projects. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 3 | Infor CloudSuite Industrial Tailored ERP for engineer-to-order manufacturing, providing robust quoting, engineering change management, and production control. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 4 | SAP S/4HANA Intelligent ERP system with engineering control center for BOM management, product lifecycle, and integrated manufacturing processes. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.4/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 5 | Oracle NetSuite Cloud-based ERP with manufacturing edition supporting work orders, assemblies, and engineering project tracking for mid-sized firms. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 6 | Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management Integrated ERP solution for engineering and production, featuring mixed-mode manufacturing, demand forecasting, and IoT-enabled operations. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | SYSPRO Flexible ERP for light manufacturing and engineering, emphasizing inventory control, CRM, and customizable workflows. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 8 | Deltek Costpoint Project-based ERP for engineering and construction firms, specializing in government contracting, time tracking, and compliance. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 9 | QAD Adaptive ERP Global manufacturing ERP focused on automotive and industrial engineering with adaptive planning and supply chain execution. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | Plex Smart Manufacturing Platform Cloud-native MES/ERP for discrete manufacturing and engineering, integrating quality, traceability, and real-time shop floor control. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
Comprehensive cloud ERP platform designed for manufacturing and engineering firms, offering advanced project management, supply chain, and production planning.
Enterprise software suite excelling in engineering, asset management, and service operations with deep industry-specific functionality for complex projects.
Tailored ERP for engineer-to-order manufacturing, providing robust quoting, engineering change management, and production control.
Intelligent ERP system with engineering control center for BOM management, product lifecycle, and integrated manufacturing processes.
Cloud-based ERP with manufacturing edition supporting work orders, assemblies, and engineering project tracking for mid-sized firms.
Integrated ERP solution for engineering and production, featuring mixed-mode manufacturing, demand forecasting, and IoT-enabled operations.
Flexible ERP for light manufacturing and engineering, emphasizing inventory control, CRM, and customizable workflows.
Project-based ERP for engineering and construction firms, specializing in government contracting, time tracking, and compliance.
Global manufacturing ERP focused on automotive and industrial engineering with adaptive planning and supply chain execution.
Cloud-native MES/ERP for discrete manufacturing and engineering, integrating quality, traceability, and real-time shop floor control.
Epicor Kinetic
enterpriseComprehensive cloud ERP platform designed for manufacturing and engineering firms, offering advanced project management, supply chain, and production planning.
Integrated Engineering Change Management (ECM) with automated workflows and CAD/BOM synchronization for seamless design revisions
Epicor Kinetic is a modern, cloud-native ERP platform designed specifically for manufacturing and engineering industries, providing comprehensive tools for product design, engineering change management, BOM handling, and integration with CAD/PLM systems. It streamlines the entire engineering-to-production lifecycle, from initial design through manufacturing and supply chain execution, with AI-driven insights and real-time analytics. As a scalable solution, it supports discrete, make-to-order, and engineer-to-order environments, making it ideal for complex engineering workflows.
Pros
- Extensive engineering-specific modules including ECM, advanced configurator, and CAD integration
- Low-code customization via App Studio for tailored engineering processes
- Robust scalability and real-time analytics for engineering data management
Cons
- Initial implementation can be complex and time-consuming for large deployments
- Higher pricing may deter smaller engineering firms
- Steep learning curve for advanced engineering features despite modern UI
Best For
Mid-to-large engineering and manufacturing companies handling complex, custom product designs and needing integrated ERP with PLM capabilities.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription pricing; typically starts at $175/user/month for core modules, scaling up to $500+/user/month with full engineering add-ons and customizations.
IFS Cloud
enterpriseEnterprise software suite excelling in engineering, asset management, and service operations with deep industry-specific functionality for complex projects.
IFS Aura AI platform, enabling predictive maintenance, intelligent workflows, and real-time decision-making unique to engineering ERP
IFS Cloud is a cloud-based ERP platform tailored for asset-intensive industries like engineering, manufacturing, aerospace, and energy, offering end-to-end management of engineering projects, asset lifecycle, service operations, and supply chain. It integrates advanced planning, maintenance, repair & overhaul (MRO), and financials with real-time analytics and AI capabilities. Designed for complex, project-driven environments, it enables engineering teams to handle design changes, production planning, and field service efficiently.
Pros
- Deep industry-specific modules for engineering change management, asset performance, and project delivery
- AI-powered IFS Aura platform for predictive analytics and automation
- Highly scalable cloud architecture with strong integration capabilities
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive customization options
- Lengthy implementation timelines for large deployments
- Premium pricing may deter smaller engineering firms
Best For
Large engineering, manufacturing, and service organizations in asset-intensive sectors needing robust, project-centric ERP integration.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing, typically starting at $100,000+ annually based on users, modules, and deployment scale.
Infor CloudSuite Industrial
enterpriseTailored ERP for engineer-to-order manufacturing, providing robust quoting, engineering change management, and production control.
Advanced Product Configuration Engine with rule-based logic for handling highly complex, multi-level engineer-to-order assemblies
Infor CloudSuite Industrial is a cloud-based ERP solution tailored for mid-sized industrial manufacturers, particularly those in engineer-to-order (ETO), configure-to-order (CTO), and make-to-stock environments. It integrates engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, financials, and service management to streamline complex production processes. Key strengths include advanced product configuration, engineering change management, and CAD/BOM integration, enabling precise control over custom designs and rapid response to engineering changes.
Pros
- Industry-specific modules for ETO/CTO manufacturing with deep engineering tools
- Scalable cloud architecture with strong integration capabilities (e.g., CAD, PLM)
- Robust configurator and estimating tools that reduce quoting time by up to 80%
Cons
- Complex initial setup and customization requiring specialist expertise
- User interface feels dated compared to modern SaaS competitors
- Higher cost for advanced features and support services
Best For
Mid-sized engineering and industrial manufacturing firms managing complex, custom product designs and production.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription pricing, typically $150-$300 per user/month depending on modules, users, and deployment scale.
SAP S/4HANA
enterpriseIntelligent ERP system with engineering control center for BOM management, product lifecycle, and integrated manufacturing processes.
SAP HANA in-memory computing for real-time engineering simulations, predictive maintenance, and instant reporting across massive datasets
SAP S/4HANA is a next-generation ERP system built on the in-memory SAP HANA database, enabling real-time data processing and analytics for enterprise operations. It offers comprehensive modules tailored for engineering ERP, including project and portfolio management (PPM), product lifecycle management (PLM), engineering change management, and integration with CAD systems. This solution excels in complex manufacturing and engineering environments by unifying finance, supply chain, production planning, and quality management into a single intelligent platform.
Pros
- Powerful real-time analytics and AI-driven insights via HANA for engineering decision-making
- Seamless integration with PLM, PPM, and industry-specific engineering tools
- Highly scalable for global enterprises with robust compliance and customization options
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation requiring extensive consulting
- High upfront and ongoing costs, especially for customization
- Interface can feel outdated compared to modern SaaS alternatives
Best For
Large engineering and manufacturing firms with complex projects needing deep integration across ERP, PLM, and supply chain functions.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise licensing; typically $150K+ annually for mid-sized deployments, scaling to millions for full implementations with consulting fees.
Oracle NetSuite
enterpriseCloud-based ERP with manufacturing edition supporting work orders, assemblies, and engineering project tracking for mid-sized firms.
SuiteProjects for advanced engineering project management with integrated time tracking, resource allocation, and profitability analysis
Oracle NetSuite is a comprehensive cloud-based ERP platform that unifies financial management, CRM, inventory, supply chain, and project operations for engineering firms. It supports engineering-specific needs through modules like SuiteProjects for project accounting, manufacturing resource planning, and bill of materials management. The system provides real-time visibility, scalability, and customization to handle complex engineering workflows from design to delivery.
Pros
- Unified cloud platform with real-time data across financials, projects, and supply chain
- Highly scalable for growing engineering operations with multi-subsidiary support via OneWorld
- Robust customization and integrations for engineering tools like CAD/PLM via SuiteApps
Cons
- High implementation costs and long setup times often requiring certified consultants
- Steep learning curve for non-standard engineering workflows without heavy customization
- Premium pricing may not suit smaller engineering firms
Best For
Mid-sized engineering companies with complex, project-based operations and global supply chains seeking scalable cloud ERP.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription; typically starts at $999-$3,000/month base + $99-$149 per user/month, scaling with modules and users.
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management
enterpriseIntegrated ERP solution for engineering and production, featuring mixed-mode manufacturing, demand forecasting, and IoT-enabled operations.
Engineering Change Management module that automates design revisions, BOM updates, and impact analysis across product lifecycle and manufacturing processes
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management is a cloud-based ERP solution that streamlines end-to-end supply chain processes, including demand planning, manufacturing execution, inventory control, and logistics for engineering-intensive industries. It offers robust engineering-specific features like engineering change management, bill of materials (BOM) handling, and production variant configuration to support complex engineer-to-order and configure-to-order scenarios. Deep integration with Microsoft tools such as Power BI, Azure IoT, and Dynamics 365 Finance enhances data-driven decision-making and scalability for global operations.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Microsoft ecosystem for enhanced analytics and IoT connectivity
- Advanced engineering change management and production control for complex manufacturing
- Scalable AI-driven forecasting and real-time visibility across global supply chains
Cons
- Complex implementation requiring significant consulting expertise and time
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users despite modern interface
- High licensing and customization costs for full engineering ERP capabilities
Best For
Large engineering and manufacturing enterprises seeking a scalable, Microsoft-integrated ERP for complex supply chain and production management.
Pricing
Subscription-based, starting at ~$180/user/month for Supply Chain Management premium license, with additional costs for modules, implementation, and customizations.
SYSPRO
enterpriseFlexible ERP for light manufacturing and engineering, emphasizing inventory control, CRM, and customizable workflows.
Advanced Engineering Change Order (ECO) management with full traceability and where-used BOM analysis
SYSPRO is a robust ERP solution tailored for manufacturing and engineering sectors, providing end-to-end management of production processes, inventory, supply chain, and financials. It excels in engineering-specific functionalities like bill of materials (BOM) management, engineering change orders (ECOs), and integration with CAD/PLM systems for complex product lifecycle handling. With modular deployment options including cloud, on-premise, and hybrid, it supports mid-market engineering firms scaling operations efficiently.
Pros
- Highly customizable modules for engineering workflows like BOM and ECO management
- Strong inventory optimization and production scheduling tailored to engineering needs
- Reliable global support and proven scalability for mid-sized manufacturers
Cons
- User interface appears dated compared to modern SaaS ERPs
- Steep learning curve and lengthy implementation for complex setups
- Pricing lacks transparency, often requiring custom quotes
Best For
Mid-sized engineering and discrete manufacturing companies needing customizable ERP for production and supply chain management without enterprise-level overhead.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; typically $150-$300 per user/month for cloud subscriptions or perpetual licenses starting at $10,000+ plus annual maintenance.
Deltek Costpoint
enterpriseProject-based ERP for engineering and construction firms, specializing in government contracting, time tracking, and compliance.
DCAA-audited timekeeping and project cost accounting for precise federal compliance
Deltek Costpoint is a robust ERP platform designed for project-centric organizations, particularly engineering firms, government contractors, and architecture/engineering/construction (AEC) companies. It excels in project accounting, financial management, resource planning, HR, and procurement, with built-in compliance for standards like DCAA, FAR, and IFRS. The software supports complex billing, earned value management, and real-time project visibility, making it ideal for managing engineering projects from inception to completion.
Pros
- Superior project accounting and earned value management for engineering projects
- Strong regulatory compliance tools for government and federal contracts
- Highly scalable with deep integrations for CRM, PSA, and analytics
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex user interface
- High upfront implementation and customization costs
- Limited flexibility for non-project-based operations
Best For
Mid-to-large engineering firms and government contractors requiring DCAA-compliant project ERP with advanced financial controls.
Pricing
Quote-based; typically $50,000+ annually for base subscriptions, plus significant one-time implementation fees ($100,000+).
QAD Adaptive ERP
enterpriseGlobal manufacturing ERP focused on automotive and industrial engineering with adaptive planning and supply chain execution.
Adaptive Manufacturing Engine that dynamically adjusts workflows for engineering changes and production variability
QAD Adaptive ERP is a cloud-native enterprise resource planning solution designed primarily for complex manufacturing industries such as automotive, aerospace, and industrial equipment, with strong capabilities in engineering processes. It excels in managing bills of materials (BOMs), engineering change orders (ECOs), product lifecycle management (PLM) integrations, and configuration control to support engineering teams in discrete manufacturing environments. The platform's adaptive architecture allows for quick customizations and scalability to handle global operations and regulatory compliance.
Pros
- Robust engineering change management and BOM handling tailored for complex assemblies
- Adaptive, cloud-based architecture enables rapid configuration without extensive coding
- Strong integration with manufacturing execution systems (MES) and supply chain tools
Cons
- Steep implementation and learning curve for engineering teams new to ERP
- Pricing can be prohibitive for smaller engineering firms
- Limited native support for advanced CAD/CAE tools compared to specialized PLM solutions
Best For
Mid-to-large engineering-led manufacturing companies in regulated industries like aerospace and automotive needing scalable ERP for global operations.
Pricing
Enterprise subscription model; custom quotes starting at $100K+ annually based on users, modules, and deployment scale.
Plex Smart Manufacturing Platform
enterpriseCloud-native MES/ERP for discrete manufacturing and engineering, integrating quality, traceability, and real-time shop floor control.
Seamless IIoT and machine connectivity for real-time production data capture and analytics directly from the shop floor
Plex Smart Manufacturing Platform is a cloud-native ERP and MES solution tailored for discrete manufacturers, offering real-time visibility across production, quality, supply chain, and engineering processes. It integrates IoT data from the shop floor to enable smart manufacturing decisions, with tools for BOM management, engineering change orders, and production planning. Designed for industries like automotive and aerospace, it streamlines operations from design to delivery while ensuring compliance and traceability.
Pros
- Real-time shop floor monitoring and IoT integration for proactive decision-making
- Robust engineering tools including BOM, ECO, and CAD integrations
- Scalable cloud platform with strong industry-specific compliance features
Cons
- Steep implementation and learning curve for complex setups
- Pricing can be high for smaller operations
- Limited customization outside core manufacturing modules
Best For
Mid-to-large discrete manufacturers in automotive, aerospace, or electronics needing integrated ERP/MES for smart factory operations.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $750-$2,500 per month per facility depending on modules, users, and scale; no upfront license fees.
Conclusion
Epicor Kinetic earns the top spot with its comprehensive cloud platform, integrating advanced project management, supply chain, and production planning for manufacturing and engineering firms. IFS Cloud and Infor CloudSuite Industrial follow closely—IFS excels in engineering and complex project asset management, while Infor specializes in engineer-to-order manufacturing with quoting and change management tools. Each offers distinct strengths, ensuring a fit for varied business needs.
Explore Epicor Kinetic to leverage its integrated capabilities and boost efficiency in your engineering operations today.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
