Quick Overview
- 1#1: E2 Shop System - Comprehensive ERP/MRP software tailored for job shops and fabrication manufacturers to manage quoting, scheduling, inventory, production, and accounting in one platform.
- 2#2: JobBOSS² - End-to-end shop management solution for small to midsize fabrication and job shops handling quoting, job tracking, inventory control, and financials.
- 3#3: ProShop - Quality-focused ERP/MES system designed for complex manufacturing environments like aerospace and precision fabrication shops with advanced workflow and compliance tools.
- 4#4: Global Shop Solutions - Robust ERP platform for discrete manufacturers including fabrication shops, offering scheduling, inventory management, and real-time shop floor control.
- 5#5: MIE Trak Pro - Integrated ERP software for fabrication shops providing quoting, order management, production tracking, and CRM functionalities.
- 6#6: DELMIAworks - Cloud-based ERP for manufacturers with strong shop floor management, MES, and quality control features suited for fabrication operations.
- 7#7: Epicor Kinetic - Scalable manufacturing ERP with modules for production management, inventory, and supply chain ideal for mid-sized fabrication businesses.
- 8#8: SYSPRO - Flexible ERP solution for manufacturing and engineering sectors, supporting fabrication shop needs in inventory, production planning, and distribution.
- 9#9: Infor CloudSuite Industrial - Industry-specific ERP for engineer-to-order and make-to-order fabrication shops with advanced planning, MES, and financial integration.
- 10#10: MRPeasy - Cloud MRP software for small fabrication and manufacturing shops offering production planning, inventory tracking, and order management at affordable pricing.
We selected these solutions based on a focus on robust functionality, user experience, reliability, and value, ensuring they meet the unique demands of fabrication shops—from small jobbers to large, complex manufacturers—with features that enhance productivity and compliance.
Comparison Table
Fabrication shops depend on specialized management software to optimize workflows, and selecting the right tool demands understanding of key features. This comparison table explores top options—such as E2 Shop System, JobBOSS², ProShop, Global Shop Solutions, MIE Trak Pro, and more—breaking down their functionalities, ease of use, and suitability for diverse shop needs. Readers will gain clarity to identify the software that best aligns with their operational requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | E2 Shop System Comprehensive ERP/MRP software tailored for job shops and fabrication manufacturers to manage quoting, scheduling, inventory, production, and accounting in one platform. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 2 | JobBOSS² End-to-end shop management solution for small to midsize fabrication and job shops handling quoting, job tracking, inventory control, and financials. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 3 | ProShop Quality-focused ERP/MES system designed for complex manufacturing environments like aerospace and precision fabrication shops with advanced workflow and compliance tools. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 4 | Global Shop Solutions Robust ERP platform for discrete manufacturers including fabrication shops, offering scheduling, inventory management, and real-time shop floor control. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.3/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | MIE Trak Pro Integrated ERP software for fabrication shops providing quoting, order management, production tracking, and CRM functionalities. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | DELMIAworks Cloud-based ERP for manufacturers with strong shop floor management, MES, and quality control features suited for fabrication operations. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.3/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | Epicor Kinetic Scalable manufacturing ERP with modules for production management, inventory, and supply chain ideal for mid-sized fabrication businesses. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 8 | SYSPRO Flexible ERP solution for manufacturing and engineering sectors, supporting fabrication shop needs in inventory, production planning, and distribution. | enterprise | 8.0/10 | 8.7/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | Infor CloudSuite Industrial Industry-specific ERP for engineer-to-order and make-to-order fabrication shops with advanced planning, MES, and financial integration. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.7/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 10 | MRPeasy Cloud MRP software for small fabrication and manufacturing shops offering production planning, inventory tracking, and order management at affordable pricing. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
Comprehensive ERP/MRP software tailored for job shops and fabrication manufacturers to manage quoting, scheduling, inventory, production, and accounting in one platform.
End-to-end shop management solution for small to midsize fabrication and job shops handling quoting, job tracking, inventory control, and financials.
Quality-focused ERP/MES system designed for complex manufacturing environments like aerospace and precision fabrication shops with advanced workflow and compliance tools.
Robust ERP platform for discrete manufacturers including fabrication shops, offering scheduling, inventory management, and real-time shop floor control.
Integrated ERP software for fabrication shops providing quoting, order management, production tracking, and CRM functionalities.
Cloud-based ERP for manufacturers with strong shop floor management, MES, and quality control features suited for fabrication operations.
Scalable manufacturing ERP with modules for production management, inventory, and supply chain ideal for mid-sized fabrication businesses.
Flexible ERP solution for manufacturing and engineering sectors, supporting fabrication shop needs in inventory, production planning, and distribution.
Industry-specific ERP for engineer-to-order and make-to-order fabrication shops with advanced planning, MES, and financial integration.
Cloud MRP software for small fabrication and manufacturing shops offering production planning, inventory tracking, and order management at affordable pricing.
E2 Shop System
enterpriseComprehensive ERP/MRP software tailored for job shops and fabrication manufacturers to manage quoting, scheduling, inventory, production, and accounting in one platform.
Patented Quote Wizard with direct CAD/DXF import and intelligent nesting for instant, precise fabrication quotes
E2 Shop System by Shoptech is a specialized ERP solution designed for job shops and make-to-order fabrication manufacturers, handling everything from rapid quoting and order management to advanced scheduling and shop floor control. It integrates inventory, quality assurance, purchasing, and accounting into a single platform, providing real-time visibility into operations. Tailored for metal fabrication, machining, and similar industries, it optimizes resource utilization and profitability through data-driven insights.
Pros
- Exceptional quoting engine with CAD import and auto-nesting for fabrication-specific accuracy
- Powerful capacity-based scheduling that maximizes shop floor efficiency
- Seamless integration of ERP functions including accounting and real-time data collection
Cons
- Windows desktop interface feels dated compared to modern cloud apps
- Initial setup and training require significant time investment
- Pricing can be steep for very small shops under 10 employees
Best For
Mid-sized fabrication shops and job shops needing comprehensive, industry-specific ERP for quoting, scheduling, and production control.
Pricing
Quote-based; modular subscriptions start at ~$1,000/month or perpetual licenses from $25,000+, scaling with users and features.
JobBOSS²
enterpriseEnd-to-end shop management solution for small to midsize fabrication and job shops handling quoting, job tracking, inventory control, and financials.
Advanced nesting and remnant optimization for sheet metal fabrication, integrated directly with production scheduling
JobBOSS² is a robust ERP solution designed for job shops, make-to-order manufacturers, and fabrication shops, offering end-to-end management from quoting and order entry to production scheduling, inventory control, and financials. It excels in handling complex fabrication processes like nesting, cut lists, welding tracking, and shop floor data collection in real-time. The software integrates seamlessly with CAD/CAM systems and provides traceability for quality compliance in custom manufacturing environments.
Pros
- Comprehensive fabrication-specific tools including nesting optimization, cut lists, and routings
- Real-time shop floor visibility and labor tracking for efficient production control
- Integrated accounting and CRM reduce need for multiple systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and extensive customization required
- Outdated UI in some modules feels less modern compared to competitors
- Pricing is opaque and can be expensive for smaller shops
Best For
Mid-sized fabrication shops handling complex, custom orders that require detailed job tracking and ERP integration.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; typically $150-$400 per user/month depending on modules, users, and customizations.
ProShop
specializedQuality-focused ERP/MES system designed for complex manufacturing environments like aerospace and precision fabrication shops with advanced workflow and compliance tools.
Integrated Quality Management System with direct CMM data import and automated compliance reporting
ProShop is a robust, all-in-one management software tailored for fabrication shops, machine shops, and contract manufacturers. It streamlines operations from quoting and order management to production scheduling, inventory control, quality assurance, and ERP functions. With strong emphasis on compliance for regulated industries like aerospace and medical, it provides data-driven insights for profitability and efficiency.
Pros
- Comprehensive integration of quoting, scheduling, inventory, and quality control
- Advanced quality management with CMM integration and real-time SPC charting
- Customizable workflows and data-driven profitability analysis
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features and customization
- Higher pricing may not suit very small shops
- Limited native mobile app; relies more on web interface
Best For
Mid-to-large fabrication shops in regulated industries like aerospace or medical devices requiring integrated quality and production management.
Pricing
Custom quoted based on shop size and modules; typically $100-$300 per user/month with annual contracts.
Global Shop Solutions
enterpriseRobust ERP platform for discrete manufacturers including fabrication shops, offering scheduling, inventory management, and real-time shop floor control.
Finite capacity Advanced Planning & Scheduling (APS) that dynamically optimizes production across multiple machines and shifts
Global Shop Solutions is a comprehensive ERP/MRP software tailored for job shops and fabrication manufacturers, offering end-to-end management from quoting and estimating to production scheduling, inventory control, and quality assurance. It provides real-time shop floor visibility, finite capacity scheduling, and tools for handling complex make-to-order processes typical in fabrication shops. The platform integrates financials, CRM, and maintenance modules to streamline operations for metal fabrication, machining, and similar industries.
Pros
- Advanced planning and scheduling (APS) with finite capacity for optimized fabrication workflows
- Robust quoting and estimating tools that reduce bid preparation time
- Real-time shop floor data capture and traceability for quality control
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup requiring significant training
- High upfront implementation costs and lengthy deployment timeline
- Limited flexibility for small shops due to its enterprise-scale focus
Best For
Mid-sized to large fabrication shops with complex job shop operations needing integrated ERP for scheduling and quoting.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $1,000-$5,000/month per user for cloud/subscription, plus implementation fees starting at $50,000+.
MIE Trak Pro
specializedIntegrated ERP software for fabrication shops providing quoting, order management, production tracking, and CRM functionalities.
CADLink technology for seamless, automated transfer of CAD engineering data directly into manufacturing workflows
MIE Trak Pro is a robust ERP software tailored for fabrication shops, job shops, and make-to-order manufacturers, providing end-to-end management from quoting and order entry to production scheduling, inventory control, and shipping. It excels in handling complex fabrication processes with features like advanced routing, nesting optimization, and shop floor data collection via barcode scanning. The system also includes integrated quality management, time tracking, and accounting modules to streamline operations and improve traceability.
Pros
- Deep fabrication-specific tools like nesting, routing, and CAD integration
- Real-time shop floor visibility and data collection
- Comprehensive modules covering quoting to invoicing
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation
- Dated user interface lacking modern intuitiveness
- Limited native mobile support
Best For
Mid-sized fabrication shops with complex, custom manufacturing processes needing detailed production tracking.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; modular on-premise or cloud licensing starting around $50,000+ annually depending on users and modules.
DELMIAworks
enterpriseCloud-based ERP for manufacturers with strong shop floor management, MES, and quality control features suited for fabrication operations.
Fully integrated ERP-MES platform with real-time production data capture and advanced scheduling for fabrication operations
DELMIAworks is a comprehensive ERP and MES platform from Dassault Systèmes, designed specifically for discrete manufacturers including fabrication shops. It streamlines operations from quoting, scheduling, and shop floor execution to inventory management, quality control, and financials. The software provides real-time visibility into production processes, enabling data-driven decisions and improved efficiency in fabrication environments.
Pros
- Integrated ERP and MES for end-to-end fabrication management
- Real-time shop floor monitoring and scheduling
- Robust quality management and compliance tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface
- High implementation costs and time
- Pricing can be prohibitive for smaller shops
Best For
Mid-sized fabrication shops needing a scalable, all-in-one ERP/MES solution for complex manufacturing workflows.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing, typically starting at $20,000-$50,000 annually for base modules, scaling with users, features, and cloud/on-premise deployment.
Epicor Kinetic
enterpriseScalable manufacturing ERP with modules for production management, inventory, and supply chain ideal for mid-sized fabrication businesses.
Integrated Advanced MES for real-time shop floor visibility and execution control
Epicor Kinetic is a robust ERP platform tailored for manufacturing industries, including fabrication shops, providing end-to-end management of production planning, inventory, quoting, scheduling, and shop floor operations. It excels in handling complex discrete manufacturing processes like job costing, material requirements planning, and quality control essential for metal fabrication and custom assembly. With cloud-native architecture, it offers scalability, real-time analytics, and integration capabilities for growing fabrication businesses.
Pros
- Comprehensive manufacturing modules including advanced scheduling and MES for fabrication workflows
- Highly customizable with low-code tools and strong integration with CAD/CAM systems
- Scalable cloud deployment with real-time dashboards and analytics
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup requiring extensive training
- High implementation costs and long deployment timelines
- Overkill for small shops due to enterprise-level complexity
Best For
Mid-sized to large fabrication shops requiring a full ERP suite for complex production and supply chain management.
Pricing
Custom pricing via quote; typically starts at $175/user/month for cloud subscriptions, with implementation fees from $100K+.
SYSPRO
enterpriseFlexible ERP solution for manufacturing and engineering sectors, supporting fabrication shop needs in inventory, production planning, and distribution.
Advanced Manufacturing Execution System (MES) for real-time shop floor data capture and execution
SYSPRO is a robust ERP platform tailored for manufacturing industries, including fabrication shops, offering modules for production planning, inventory control, shop floor management, and financials. It enables precise job costing, material requirements planning (MRP), and real-time tracking of fabrication processes from quoting to delivery. Highly customizable, it supports complex workflows like bill of materials management and quality control specific to metalworking and assembly operations.
Pros
- Comprehensive manufacturing modules including MRP, job costing, and shop floor control
- Highly customizable with e.net scripting for fabrication-specific needs
- Strong integration for supply chain and real-time analytics
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface for non-ERP users
- High implementation costs and lengthy setup time
- May be overkill for small fabrication shops with simple needs
Best For
Mid-sized to large fabrication shops requiring scalable ERP with advanced manufacturing intelligence.
Pricing
Custom pricing; perpetual licenses start at ~$25,000+ plus annual maintenance, or subscription from $150/user/month depending on modules.
Infor CloudSuite Industrial
enterpriseIndustry-specific ERP for engineer-to-order and make-to-order fabrication shops with advanced planning, MES, and financial integration.
Advanced configure-price-quote (CPQ) engine with engineer-to-order support for rapid, accurate fabrication bidding
Infor CloudSuite Industrial (CSI) is a robust cloud-based ERP platform designed for industrial manufacturers, including fabrication shops, offering end-to-end management from quoting and order entry to production execution and financials. It excels in make-to-order and engineer-to-order environments with tools for job costing, advanced scheduling, inventory management, quality control, and shop floor visibility. The solution integrates CRM, supply chain, and analytics to optimize fabrication operations and support complex projects.
Pros
- Comprehensive fabrication-specific features like advanced job costing and configure-to-order quoting
- Scalable cloud deployment with real-time shop floor control and analytics
- Strong integration via Infor ION for ERP, CRM, and MES connectivity
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation requiring significant customization
- High enterprise-level pricing not ideal for small shops
- User interface feels dated compared to modern SaaS alternatives
Best For
Mid-sized to large fabrication shops handling complex, custom orders that require a full-featured ERP with deep manufacturing intelligence.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription pricing; typically starts at $50,000+ annually for mid-tier deployments, scaling with users and modules.
MRPeasy
specializedCloud MRP software for small fabrication and manufacturing shops offering production planning, inventory tracking, and order management at affordable pricing.
Drag-and-drop Gantt chart for visual production scheduling and capacity planning
MRPeasy is a cloud-based MRP software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers, including fabrication shops, providing end-to-end management of production planning, inventory, BOMs, and shop floor operations. It enables efficient scheduling, real-time tracking of materials and labor, and cost control through integrated quoting and purchasing modules. The platform streamlines workflows from order to delivery, making it suitable for discrete manufacturing environments like metal fabrication.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with quick onboarding
- Robust inventory management and multi-level BOM support
- Affordable for SMBs with scalable plans
Cons
- Lacks deep fabrication-specific tools like advanced nesting or CAD integration
- Reporting capabilities are functional but not highly customizable
- Limited native integrations with shop floor machinery
Best For
Small to medium fabrication shops needing an all-in-one MRP for production planning without heavy customization.
Pricing
Starts at $49/user/month (billed annually) for Basic plan; scales to $99+/user/month for advanced features, with custom enterprise quotes.
Conclusion
The top three tools reviewed deliver exceptional value, with E2 Shop System emerging as the clear leader, boasting a comprehensive ERP/MRP platform that unifies quoting, scheduling, inventory, production, and accounting for fabrication needs. JobBOSS² stands out for small to midsize shops, offering end-to-end tracking, while ProShop excels in complex, quality-focused environments with advanced compliance tools. Each of the top three addresses critical operational needs, ensuring streamlined workflows.
To experience the efficiency of a top-ranked solution, start with E2 Shop System—its integrated capabilities can transform how you manage your fabrication shop, from quotes to delivery.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
