Quick Overview
- 1#1: MRPeasy - Cloud-based MRP software tailored for make-to-order manufacturers, offering production planning, inventory tracking, and shop floor control.
- 2#2: Katana MRP - Real-time manufacturing resource planning tool for make-to-order businesses, integrating inventory, production, and sales orders seamlessly.
- 3#3: Odoo Manufacturing - Modular ERP system with a robust manufacturing app supporting make-to-order workflows, including work orders, BOMs, and quality control.
- 4#4: ERPNext - Open-source ERP platform with make-to-order manufacturing features like production planning, serial/batch tracking, and multi-level BOMs.
- 5#5: Fishbowl - Inventory management software with manufacturing modules for make-to-order operations, including order fulfillment and QuickBooks integration.
- 6#6: Prodsmart - Real-time shop floor management app for make-to-order production, providing scheduling, tracking, and performance analytics via mobile.
- 7#7: JobBOSS² - Shop management software designed for make-to-order job shops, handling quoting, scheduling, inventory, and quality assurance.
- 8#8: E2 Shop System - ERP solution for custom make-to-order manufacturers, featuring quoting, nesting, scheduling, and real-time shop floor visibility.
- 9#9: DELMIAworks - Cloud ERP for discrete make-to-order manufacturing, with tools for production management, quality, and supply chain integration.
- 10#10: Epicor Kinetic - Comprehensive ERP platform supporting make-to-order processes with advanced planning, MES integration, and industry-specific manufacturing tools.
We ranked these tools by evaluating core features (including production planning, real-time visibility, and integration capabilities), user experience, technical reliability, and value, ensuring only the most effective solutions are included.
Comparison Table
This comparison table evaluates leading Make To Order software tools, including MRPeasy, Katana MRP, Odoo Manufacturing, ERPNext, Fishbowl, and more, helping readers identify features, workflows, and strengths that align with their business needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MRPeasy Cloud-based MRP software tailored for make-to-order manufacturers, offering production planning, inventory tracking, and shop floor control. | enterprise | 9.8/10 | 9.9/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.6/10 |
| 2 | Katana MRP Real-time manufacturing resource planning tool for make-to-order businesses, integrating inventory, production, and sales orders seamlessly. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 3 | Odoo Manufacturing Modular ERP system with a robust manufacturing app supporting make-to-order workflows, including work orders, BOMs, and quality control. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 4 | ERPNext Open-source ERP platform with make-to-order manufacturing features like production planning, serial/batch tracking, and multi-level BOMs. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 6.5/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 5 | Fishbowl Inventory management software with manufacturing modules for make-to-order operations, including order fulfillment and QuickBooks integration. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Prodsmart Real-time shop floor management app for make-to-order production, providing scheduling, tracking, and performance analytics via mobile. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 7 | JobBOSS² Shop management software designed for make-to-order job shops, handling quoting, scheduling, inventory, and quality assurance. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 8 | E2 Shop System ERP solution for custom make-to-order manufacturers, featuring quoting, nesting, scheduling, and real-time shop floor visibility. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | DELMIAworks Cloud ERP for discrete make-to-order manufacturing, with tools for production management, quality, and supply chain integration. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | Epicor Kinetic Comprehensive ERP platform supporting make-to-order processes with advanced planning, MES integration, and industry-specific manufacturing tools. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
Cloud-based MRP software tailored for make-to-order manufacturers, offering production planning, inventory tracking, and shop floor control.
Real-time manufacturing resource planning tool for make-to-order businesses, integrating inventory, production, and sales orders seamlessly.
Modular ERP system with a robust manufacturing app supporting make-to-order workflows, including work orders, BOMs, and quality control.
Open-source ERP platform with make-to-order manufacturing features like production planning, serial/batch tracking, and multi-level BOMs.
Inventory management software with manufacturing modules for make-to-order operations, including order fulfillment and QuickBooks integration.
Real-time shop floor management app for make-to-order production, providing scheduling, tracking, and performance analytics via mobile.
Shop management software designed for make-to-order job shops, handling quoting, scheduling, inventory, and quality assurance.
ERP solution for custom make-to-order manufacturers, featuring quoting, nesting, scheduling, and real-time shop floor visibility.
Cloud ERP for discrete make-to-order manufacturing, with tools for production management, quality, and supply chain integration.
Comprehensive ERP platform supporting make-to-order processes with advanced planning, MES integration, and industry-specific manufacturing tools.
MRPeasy
enterpriseCloud-based MRP software tailored for make-to-order manufacturers, offering production planning, inventory tracking, and shop floor control.
Patented dynamic production scheduling that automatically recalculates priorities and timelines based on order changes, material availability, and capacity in real-time.
MRPeasy is a cloud-based MRP/ERP system tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers, excelling in make-to-order (MTO) production by linking sales orders directly to production planning and scheduling. It automates material requirements planning (MRP), inventory management, purchasing, and CRM, providing real-time visibility into shop floor operations. The software supports dynamic rescheduling to handle order changes efficiently, reducing lead times and waste in discrete manufacturing environments.
Pros
- Seamless MTO workflow from quoting to shipping with automatic production orders
- Advanced dynamic scheduling engine that adapts to real-time disruptions
- Integrated inventory, CRM, and basic accounting in one intuitive platform
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly with additional users
- Limited advanced customization for highly complex assemblies
- Reporting tools lack some depth for enterprise-level analytics
Best For
Small to midsize make-to-order manufacturers seeking an all-in-one, user-friendly MRP solution to streamline custom production without enterprise complexity.
Pricing
Starts at €49/user/month (Standard plan, annual billing); Gold at €99/user/month; Enterprise custom; minimum 1 user with add-ons for extras.
Katana MRP
specializedReal-time manufacturing resource planning tool for make-to-order businesses, integrating inventory, production, and sales orders seamlessly.
Live MRP engine that automatically generates and prioritizes production/purchase orders based on real-time sales and inventory data
Katana MRP is a cloud-based manufacturing resource planning (MRP) software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers, specializing in real-time inventory tracking, production scheduling, and order management for make-to-order (MTO) workflows. It enables users to create dynamic bills of materials (BOMs), generate production and purchase orders automatically from sales data, and monitor shop floor activities via an intuitive visual dashboard. With strong integrations to e-commerce platforms like Shopify and accounting tools like QuickBooks, Katana streamlines the entire MTO process from order receipt to fulfillment.
Pros
- Real-time inventory visibility across multiple locations and sales channels
- Automated production planning with visual Kanban boards and drag-and-drop scheduling
- Seamless integrations with e-commerce, accounting, and ERP systems
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics and reporting compared to enterprise-level MRP tools
- Higher pricing tiers required for multi-warehouse or complex manufacturing needs
- Customization options for workflows can feel restrictive for highly unique processes
Best For
Small to medium-sized make-to-order manufacturers seeking intuitive, real-time control over inventory and production without needing extensive IT support.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Basic plan for single location), $299/month (Pro for multi-location), with custom Enterprise pricing.
Odoo Manufacturing
enterpriseModular ERP system with a robust manufacturing app supporting make-to-order workflows, including work orders, BOMs, and quality control.
Automatic generation and linking of Manufacturing Orders directly to Sales Orders for true MTO automation with real-time demand planning
Odoo Manufacturing is a robust module in the open-source Odoo ERP suite, tailored for Make-to-Order (MTO) production where manufacturing orders are triggered directly by sales orders. It provides comprehensive tools including Bills of Materials (BOM) management, work order scheduling, quality inspections, and real-time inventory tracking integrated seamlessly with sales, purchasing, and CRM modules. The system supports multi-level BOMs, production planning, and traceability, enabling efficient just-in-time manufacturing for discrete and process industries.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Odoo ERP modules for end-to-end MTO workflows
- Highly customizable BOMs, routing, and production scheduling
- Cost-effective with free community edition and scalable enterprise options
Cons
- Steep learning curve for complex configurations and customizations
- Performance can degrade with very large-scale operations without optimization
- Advanced features like IoT integration require enterprise subscription
Best For
Small to mid-sized manufacturers seeking an affordable, integrated ERP solution for MTO production tied to customer orders.
Pricing
Free open-source Community edition; Enterprise starts at ~$25/user/month (billed annually) including Manufacturing app, with additional costs for hosting and custom apps.
ERPNext
enterpriseOpen-source ERP platform with make-to-order manufacturing features like production planning, serial/batch tracking, and multi-level BOMs.
Sales Order to Work Order automation with real-time material requirement planning and production tracking
ERPNext is a comprehensive open-source ERP system designed for businesses managing complex manufacturing processes, including Make To Order (MTO) workflows. It enables sales orders to automatically trigger material requests, production plans, work orders, and quality inspections via Bill of Materials (BOM) management and inventory tracking. The platform integrates seamlessly with accounting, CRM, HR, and project management, providing an all-in-one solution for end-to-end operations.
Pros
- Robust MTO capabilities with automated workflows from sales orders to production completion
- Highly customizable open-source architecture with extensive module integrations
- Excellent value as core software is free with strong community support
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup requiring technical expertise
- User interface feels dated and less intuitive compared to modern SaaS ERPs
- Limited out-of-box enterprise scalability without custom development
Best For
Small to mid-sized manufacturers needing a flexible, cost-effective ERP for custom MTO production without high licensing fees.
Pricing
Free open-source self-hosted version; Frappe Cloud hosting starts at $10/site/month for basic plans, with per-user pricing from $10-25/month for professional tiers.
Fishbowl
enterpriseInventory management software with manufacturing modules for make-to-order operations, including order fulfillment and QuickBooks integration.
Native, bidirectional QuickBooks integration that syncs inventory, orders, and financials in real-time
Fishbowl is a robust inventory and warehouse management software tailored for small to midsize businesses, with strong capabilities in manufacturing and order fulfillment. It supports make-to-order (MTO) processes through bills of materials (BOMs), work orders, and production scheduling triggered directly from sales orders. The platform offers multi-location inventory tracking, barcode scanning, and seamless integrations with accounting tools like QuickBooks.
Pros
- Excellent QuickBooks integration for real-time financial syncing
- Comprehensive MTO support with BOMs, work orders, and production planning
- Strong multi-location inventory and warehouse management tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- On-premise version requires IT resources and maintenance
- Reporting capabilities are functional but lack advanced customization
Best For
QuickBooks-using SMB manufacturers handling make-to-order production with multi-location needs.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at ~$4,439 for core edition plus annual maintenance (~20%); Fishbowl Go cloud SaaS from $439/month.
Prodsmart
specializedReal-time shop floor management app for make-to-order production, providing scheduling, tracking, and performance analytics via mobile.
Instant mobile data capture for paperless operations and precise order traceability
Prodsmart is a cloud-based Manufacturing Execution System (MES) that delivers real-time shop floor visibility for make-to-order manufacturers. It tracks production orders, materials consumption, machine performance, and quality metrics through mobile apps and digital work instructions, enabling dynamic scheduling and full traceability. The platform optimizes efficiency with OEE calculations, downtime analysis, and ERP integrations like SAP or Microsoft Dynamics.
Pros
- Real-time production tracking and OEE insights for quick order adjustments
- Mobile-first interface for easy shop floor data capture
- Seamless ERP integrations and customizable dashboards
Cons
- Pricing is quote-based and can be steep for small shops
- Limited advanced forecasting tools compared to full ERP suites
- Setup requires initial configuration for custom workflows
Best For
Small to mid-sized make-to-order manufacturers needing real-time visibility into custom production without complex IT infrastructure.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting around $100-200/month for basic plans, scaling with users, modules, and production volume.
JobBOSS²
enterpriseShop management software designed for make-to-order job shops, handling quoting, scheduling, inventory, and quality assurance.
Advanced dynamic estimating engine for rapid, accurate quoting of complex custom jobs
JobBOSS² is an ERP software tailored for make-to-order manufacturers and job shops, managing the entire process from quoting and order entry to production scheduling, inventory control, and invoicing. It excels in job costing, tracking custom production runs, and integrating financials for precise profitability analysis. Designed for complex, non-repetitive manufacturing, it supports quality management and shop floor control to streamline operations.
Pros
- Robust job costing and tracking for custom orders
- Seamless integration of quoting, production, and accounting
- Strong inventory and purchasing management for MTO needs
Cons
- Steep learning curve and dated user interface
- Lengthy implementation and customization process
- High pricing may not suit very small shops
Best For
Mid-sized job shops and make-to-order manufacturers requiring comprehensive end-to-end shop floor and ERP management.
Pricing
Quote-based; modular subscriptions starting around $300/user/month or perpetual licenses from $10,000+, plus implementation fees.
E2 Shop System
enterpriseERP solution for custom make-to-order manufacturers, featuring quoting, nesting, scheduling, and real-time shop floor visibility.
Dynamic finite scheduling that automatically reschedules jobs in real-time based on shop floor events and priorities
E2 Shop System by Shoptech is a robust ERP/MRP solution tailored for make-to-order (MTO) manufacturers and job shops, handling everything from quoting and order entry to production scheduling, inventory management, and shop floor control. It excels in managing custom jobs with features like dynamic scheduling, nesting optimization for sheet metal, and real-time data capture. The system supports complex MTO workflows, ensuring traceability and efficiency in high-mix, low-volume environments.
Pros
- Powerful quoting and estimating tools with configurability for MTO scenarios
- Advanced shop floor execution with barcode scanning and real-time tracking
- Strong nesting and scheduling capabilities for optimizing material use in custom production
Cons
- Primarily on-premise deployment limits remote access and scalability
- Steep learning curve due to extensive customization options
- Higher upfront costs may deter very small shops
Best For
Mid-sized job shops and MTO manufacturers needing detailed shop floor control and production optimization.
Pricing
Perpetual license starting at around $15,000 for base system, plus modules and annual maintenance fees; quote-based.
DELMIAworks
enterpriseCloud ERP for discrete make-to-order manufacturing, with tools for production management, quality, and supply chain integration.
Integrated Real-Time Manufacturing Intelligence for dynamic shop floor adjustments in MTO environments
DELMIAworks is a robust ERP and MES platform tailored for manufacturing, including make-to-order (MTO) operations, integrating production planning, inventory control, quality management, and financials. It supports custom order fulfillment through advanced quoting, engineering change orders, job costing, and real-time shop floor execution. Ideal for discrete manufacturers, it provides end-to-end visibility from order entry to delivery.
Pros
- Comprehensive MTO support with engineer-to-order and configure-to-order workflows
- Real-time MES integration for shop floor control and traceability
- Scalable for mid-sized to large manufacturers with strong reporting and analytics
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- High implementation costs and long deployment times
- Limited flexibility for very small operations or rapid customization
Best For
Mid-sized make-to-order manufacturers requiring integrated ERP/MES for custom production and real-time operations management.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; typically $75,000+ annually for mid-tier deployments, including modules, users, and cloud/on-premise options.
Epicor Kinetic
enterpriseComprehensive ERP platform supporting make-to-order processes with advanced planning, MES integration, and industry-specific manufacturing tools.
Adaptive Production Scheduler that dynamically adjusts MTO jobs based on real-time capacity, materials, and customer priorities
Epicor Kinetic is a modern, cloud-based ERP platform tailored for manufacturing enterprises, providing end-to-end support for Make To Order (MTO) processes including quoting, order configuration, production planning, and fulfillment. It excels in managing complex, customer-specific production with features like multi-level BOMs, job management, and real-time shop floor control. The system integrates seamlessly with CRM, supply chain, and financials to ensure accurate costing and on-time delivery for custom orders.
Pros
- Comprehensive MTO workflows with advanced scheduling and traceability
- Scalable cloud architecture with strong integration to MES and IoT devices
- Robust analytics for production efficiency and cost control
Cons
- Steep learning curve and lengthy implementation for full MTO customization
- High cost unsuitable for small-scale MTO operations
- Occasional performance lags in highly customized environments
Best For
Mid-sized to large manufacturers handling complex, high-value MTO production with needs for integrated ERP and real-time visibility.
Pricing
Subscription-based; custom quotes starting at $175-$350 per user/month, depending on modules, users, and deployment size.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools excel at supporting make-to-order operations, with MRPeasy emerging as the top choice, noted for its tailored cloud-based approach to production planning and inventory management. Katana MRP and Odoo Manufacturing rank highly as strong alternatives, offering real-time integration and modular flexibility to suit different operational needs.
Unlock efficient make-to-order workflows—start with MRPeasy to streamline production planning, inventory tracking, and shop floor control.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison