Quick Overview
- 1#1: Salesforce Manufacturing Cloud - Delivers comprehensive CRM with manufacturing-specific features like asset management, service lifecycle tracking, and predictive analytics for optimized customer relationships.
- 2#2: Microsoft Dynamics 365 - Integrates CRM and ERP functionalities tailored for manufacturing, offering production planning, supply chain management, and AI-driven sales insights.
- 3#3: NetSuite - Cloud-based ERP and CRM platform with manufacturing modules for inventory control, order management, and customer relationship automation.
- 4#4: SAP S/4HANA - Enterprise resource planning suite with embedded CRM capabilities for manufacturing, enabling real-time analytics and intelligent sales processes.
- 5#5: Epicor Kinetic - Industry-specific ERP with robust CRM tools for manufacturers, supporting quoting, order fulfillment, and customer service integration.
- 6#6: Infor CloudSuite Industrial - Manufacturing-focused ERP and CRM solution providing configure-price-quote, sales automation, and supply chain visibility.
- 7#7: Plex Smart Manufacturing Platform - Cloud MES and ERP system with CRM features for real-time shop floor data, quality management, and customer order tracking.
- 8#8: Odoo - Open-source all-in-one platform combining CRM, manufacturing, inventory, and sales apps for streamlined operations.
- 9#9: MRPeasy - Cloud-based manufacturing ERP with CRM elements for production planning, sales orders, and customer management in small to mid-sized businesses.
- 10#10: Katana MRP - Visual manufacturing planning software with integrated sales and CRM tools for inventory tracking and order fulfillment.
Tools were selected and ranked based on industry-specific feature relevance, user experience, integration potential, and overall value, ensuring they address the unique challenges of manufacturing environments.
Comparison Table
For manufacturing teams aiming to optimize operations and strengthen customer connections, a tailored CRM tool is critical. This comparison table examines leading options like Salesforce Manufacturing Cloud, Microsoft Dynamics 365, NetSuite, SAP S/4HANA, Epicor Kinetic, and more, breaking down key features, integration strengths, and usability to help identify the best fit for specific manufacturing workflows.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Salesforce Manufacturing Cloud Delivers comprehensive CRM with manufacturing-specific features like asset management, service lifecycle tracking, and predictive analytics for optimized customer relationships. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 2 | Microsoft Dynamics 365 Integrates CRM and ERP functionalities tailored for manufacturing, offering production planning, supply chain management, and AI-driven sales insights. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 3 | NetSuite Cloud-based ERP and CRM platform with manufacturing modules for inventory control, order management, and customer relationship automation. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 4 | SAP S/4HANA Enterprise resource planning suite with embedded CRM capabilities for manufacturing, enabling real-time analytics and intelligent sales processes. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.3/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 5 | Epicor Kinetic Industry-specific ERP with robust CRM tools for manufacturers, supporting quoting, order fulfillment, and customer service integration. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | Infor CloudSuite Industrial Manufacturing-focused ERP and CRM solution providing configure-price-quote, sales automation, and supply chain visibility. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | Plex Smart Manufacturing Platform Cloud MES and ERP system with CRM features for real-time shop floor data, quality management, and customer order tracking. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | Odoo Open-source all-in-one platform combining CRM, manufacturing, inventory, and sales apps for streamlined operations. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 9 | MRPeasy Cloud-based manufacturing ERP with CRM elements for production planning, sales orders, and customer management in small to mid-sized businesses. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 10 | Katana MRP Visual manufacturing planning software with integrated sales and CRM tools for inventory tracking and order fulfillment. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
Delivers comprehensive CRM with manufacturing-specific features like asset management, service lifecycle tracking, and predictive analytics for optimized customer relationships.
Integrates CRM and ERP functionalities tailored for manufacturing, offering production planning, supply chain management, and AI-driven sales insights.
Cloud-based ERP and CRM platform with manufacturing modules for inventory control, order management, and customer relationship automation.
Enterprise resource planning suite with embedded CRM capabilities for manufacturing, enabling real-time analytics and intelligent sales processes.
Industry-specific ERP with robust CRM tools for manufacturers, supporting quoting, order fulfillment, and customer service integration.
Manufacturing-focused ERP and CRM solution providing configure-price-quote, sales automation, and supply chain visibility.
Cloud MES and ERP system with CRM features for real-time shop floor data, quality management, and customer order tracking.
Open-source all-in-one platform combining CRM, manufacturing, inventory, and sales apps for streamlined operations.
Cloud-based manufacturing ERP with CRM elements for production planning, sales orders, and customer management in small to mid-sized businesses.
Visual manufacturing planning software with integrated sales and CRM tools for inventory tracking and order fulfillment.
Salesforce Manufacturing Cloud
enterpriseDelivers comprehensive CRM with manufacturing-specific features like asset management, service lifecycle tracking, and predictive analytics for optimized customer relationships.
Unified Planning Console that connects sales, service, quality, and production data for real-time visibility and decision-making
Salesforce Manufacturing Cloud is a purpose-built CRM platform tailored for the manufacturing industry, extending the core Salesforce CRM with industry-specific tools for sales, service, and operations. It provides a unified view of customer data, production planning, rebate management, and forecasting, enabling manufacturers to align sales pipelines with supply chain realities. Key integrations with ERP systems like SAP and Oracle streamline data flow across the enterprise.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Salesforce ecosystem and major ERPs
- AI-driven insights for forecasting and rebate management
- Highly customizable for complex manufacturing workflows
Cons
- High cost with custom pricing and implementation fees
- Steep learning curve requiring extensive training
- Overkill for small manufacturers due to complexity
Best For
Enterprise-level manufacturing organizations needing integrated CRM, ERP connectivity, and advanced analytics for sales and operations alignment.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at ~$300/user/month (Enterprise tier required), plus implementation costs and add-ons; custom quotes typical.
Microsoft Dynamics 365
enterpriseIntegrates CRM and ERP functionalities tailored for manufacturing, offering production planning, supply chain management, and AI-driven sales insights.
Copilot AI integration for real-time predictive manufacturing insights and automated CRM workflows
Microsoft Dynamics 365 is a comprehensive cloud-based suite that integrates CRM and ERP capabilities, specifically tailored for manufacturing through modules like Supply Chain Management, which handles production planning, inventory control, quality assurance, and shop floor execution. It seamlessly connects these operations with Sales, Customer Service, and Field Service CRM tools to manage customer relationships, orders, and service from end-to-end. Leveraging AI, IoT, and Power BI analytics, it enables real-time visibility and predictive insights to optimize manufacturing efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Pros
- Deep integration with Microsoft ecosystem including Power BI, Azure IoT, and Copilot AI for advanced analytics
- Robust manufacturing-specific features like mixed-mode production, predictive maintenance, and quality management alongside full CRM
- Highly scalable for global enterprises with strong customization via Power Apps and low-code tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex setup requiring skilled administrators or partners
- High licensing costs that can escalate with additional modules and users
- Overkill for small to mid-sized manufacturers due to its enterprise focus
Best For
Large-scale manufacturing enterprises needing an all-in-one CRM-ERP platform with AI-driven insights and Microsoft integrations.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at $65/user/month for core CRM (Sales Professional), $180+/user/month for Supply Chain Management; enterprise bundles and custom pricing available.
NetSuite
enterpriseCloud-based ERP and CRM platform with manufacturing modules for inventory control, order management, and customer relationship automation.
Integrated Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP) with CRM for real-time order-to-production tracking
NetSuite is a cloud-based ERP platform with integrated CRM functionalities designed for manufacturing businesses, enabling end-to-end management from customer acquisition to production fulfillment. It combines robust CRM tools for sales, marketing, and service with manufacturing-specific modules like bills of materials, work orders, inventory control, and supply chain optimization. This integration provides real-time visibility into how customer orders impact production schedules and resources.
Pros
- Seamless integration of CRM with manufacturing ERP modules for unified operations
- Real-time analytics and dashboards linking sales pipelines to production
- Highly scalable and customizable for complex manufacturing needs
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface requiring extensive training
- High implementation costs and long setup times
- Premium pricing may not suit smaller manufacturers
Best For
Mid-to-large manufacturing companies needing a comprehensive, integrated ERP-CRM system for scaling operations.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $999/month base + $99-$149/user/month, plus implementation fees and add-on modules.
SAP S/4HANA
enterpriseEnterprise resource planning suite with embedded CRM capabilities for manufacturing, enabling real-time analytics and intelligent sales processes.
HANA in-memory database enabling real-time synchronization of manufacturing data with customer interactions for proactive service and sales
SAP S/4HANA is a next-generation ERP suite with robust manufacturing modules for production planning, quality control, and supply chain management, integrated with CRM functionalities for sales, service, and customer engagement tailored to manufacturing industries. It leverages in-memory computing for real-time analytics and decision-making across the value chain. While powerful for enterprise-scale operations, its CRM aspects are embedded within the broader ERP framework rather than as a standalone solution.
Pros
- Seamless integration of manufacturing execution with CRM processes
- Advanced AI-driven predictive analytics for demand forecasting and maintenance
- Highly scalable for global manufacturing enterprises with real-time insights
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex user interface
- Extremely high implementation and customization costs
- Overkill for smaller manufacturers focused solely on CRM
Best For
Large-scale manufacturing enterprises requiring fully integrated ERP and CRM capabilities for end-to-end operations.
Pricing
Subscription-based enterprise licensing typically starts at $100,000+ annually for core modules, with implementation costs often exceeding $1M depending on scope and users.
Epicor Kinetic
enterpriseIndustry-specific ERP with robust CRM tools for manufacturers, supporting quoting, order fulfillment, and customer service integration.
Epicor Low-Code Application Studio for rapid, no-code customizations across CRM and manufacturing modules
Epicor Kinetic is a robust, cloud-based ERP platform with integrated CRM functionalities tailored for manufacturing enterprises. It combines customer relationship management tools like sales automation, service management, and marketing with core manufacturing processes such as production scheduling, inventory control, and supply chain management. This unification enables manufacturers to gain real-time visibility into customer interactions alongside operational data, improving decision-making and efficiency.
Pros
- Deep integration of CRM with manufacturing ERP for real-time data synchronization
- Highly customizable low-code platform for tailored workflows
- Advanced analytics and AI-driven insights for sales and operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to comprehensive feature set
- Complex and time-intensive implementation process
- Higher pricing suitable mainly for mid-to-large enterprises
Best For
Mid-sized to large manufacturing companies needing tightly integrated CRM and ERP capabilities.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; typically $175-$300 per user per month, depending on modules, users, and deployment.
Infor CloudSuite Industrial
enterpriseManufacturing-focused ERP and CRM solution providing configure-price-quote, sales automation, and supply chain visibility.
Seamless integration of CRM with shop floor execution and MES for real-time customer order tracking and fulfillment visibility
Infor CloudSuite Industrial is a cloud-based ERP suite tailored for discrete and process manufacturers, featuring embedded CRM capabilities to manage customer interactions, sales pipelines, and service operations within a manufacturing context. It integrates CRM with core manufacturing functions like production planning, inventory management, and supply chain execution for a unified view of operations and customer data. This solution excels in handling complex, industry-specific requirements such as engineer-to-order processes and after-sales service tied to product lifecycles.
Pros
- Deep integration of CRM with manufacturing ERP modules for real-time visibility
- Industry-specific tools like CPQ and service management for complex products
- Scalable cloud deployment with strong analytics and reporting
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive customization options
- High implementation costs and time for full deployment
- Interface can feel dated compared to modern SaaS CRM tools
Best For
Mid-to-large industrial manufacturers needing tightly integrated CRM with ERP for engineer-to-order and make-to-stock environments.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing, typically starting at $50,000+ annually for mid-sized deployments, scaling with users, modules, and customizations.
Plex Smart Manufacturing Platform
specializedCloud MES and ERP system with CRM features for real-time shop floor data, quality management, and customer order tracking.
Real-time synchronization of customer orders with shop floor MES for precise delivery commitments and dynamic capacity planning
Plex Smart Manufacturing Platform is a cloud-based, all-in-one solution that includes CRM capabilities tailored for manufacturing, integrating customer management with ERP, MES, QMS, and supply chain operations. It enables manufacturers to handle sales quotes, orders, customer service, and service management while linking directly to real-time production data for accurate promising and fulfillment. As a unified platform, Plex reduces silos between sales and operations, providing actionable insights for discrete and process manufacturers.
Pros
- Deep integration of CRM with manufacturing operations for real-time order fulfillment
- Comprehensive analytics and IoT connectivity for customer insights
- Scalable cloud deployment with no on-premise hardware needed
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive feature set
- Pricing can be high for small manufacturers
- Limited flexibility for heavy customizations outside core modules
Best For
Mid-sized discrete manufacturers seeking an integrated CRM that syncs customer data with production and supply chain in real time.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting around $1,000-$5,000/month depending on factory metrics, users, and modules; no upfront costs.
Odoo
enterpriseOpen-source all-in-one platform combining CRM, manufacturing, inventory, and sales apps for streamlined operations.
Seamless bidirectional integration between CRM sales orders and manufacturing work orders for real-time production triggering from customer deals
Odoo is a modular, open-source ERP platform that integrates CRM and manufacturing functionalities into a single system, enabling businesses to manage customer relationships, sales pipelines, production planning, inventory, and quality control seamlessly. Its Manufacturing module supports MRP processes like bills of materials, work orders, and shop floor management, while the CRM module handles leads, opportunities, and customer interactions with direct links to production orders. This all-in-one approach reduces the need for multiple disparate tools, making it suitable for manufacturers seeking unified operations.
Pros
- Comprehensive integration of CRM and manufacturing modules for end-to-end visibility
- Highly customizable with thousands of community apps and open-source flexibility
- Cost-effective with a free community edition and scalable enterprise options
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup requiring technical expertise
- Performance can lag with very large datasets or heavy customizations
- Enterprise features and premium support often require paid plans or partners
Best For
Small to mid-sized manufacturing businesses needing an affordable, integrated CRM and production management system without silos.
Pricing
Free Community edition; Enterprise starts at $24.90/user/month (Standard plan) with custom pricing for Enterprise and hosting options.
MRPeasy
specializedCloud-based manufacturing ERP with CRM elements for production planning, sales orders, and customer management in small to mid-sized businesses.
Dynamic MRP scheduling that automatically links customer orders to production plans in real-time
MRPeasy is a cloud-based ERP and MRP software designed specifically for small to medium-sized manufacturers, with integrated CRM capabilities for managing customer relationships alongside production processes. It offers tools for quotes, sales orders, invoicing, and customer tracking, seamlessly linked to inventory management, production scheduling, and shop floor control. This all-in-one platform helps manufacturers streamline operations from order intake to delivery, providing real-time visibility and automation.
Pros
- Seamless integration of CRM with manufacturing MRP for end-to-end visibility
- User-friendly interface with intuitive dashboards and mobile access
- Cost-effective scalability for SMBs with strong ROI on production efficiency
Cons
- Limited advanced customization and reporting compared to enterprise ERP
- Best suited for discrete manufacturing, less ideal for process-heavy industries
- Customer support can be slower during peak times
Best For
Small to medium-sized make-to-order manufacturers needing integrated CRM and production management without complex setups.
Pricing
Starts at $49/user/month (billed annually) for Basic plan; scales to $79+/user/month for advanced features, with a minimum of 10 users.
Katana MRP
specializedVisual manufacturing planning software with integrated sales and CRM tools for inventory tracking and order fulfillment.
Real-time MRP engine with visual production scheduling that automatically adjusts based on inventory and orders
Katana MRP is a cloud-based manufacturing resource planning (MRP) software primarily focused on inventory management, production scheduling, and order fulfillment for small to medium-sized manufacturers. It provides basic CRM-like functionalities through sales order tracking, customer portals, and integrations with e-commerce platforms like Shopify, but lacks advanced CRM features such as lead nurturing, marketing automation, or detailed customer analytics. Overall, it bridges manufacturing operations with basic sales management, making it suitable for order-driven manufacturers rather than full-fledged CRM needs.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with visual kanban boards for easy production planning
- Strong real-time inventory tracking across multiple locations
- Seamless integrations with accounting (QuickBooks, Xero) and e-commerce platforms
Cons
- Limited advanced CRM tools like sales pipelines or customer segmentation
- Order volume limits on lower plans can restrict scaling
- Reporting is basic and lacks deep manufacturing CRM analytics
Best For
Small to medium manufacturers who need integrated inventory/production management with simple sales order handling.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Basic, up to 100 orders), $299/month (Pro, up to 500 orders), Enterprise custom pricing.
Conclusion
The top 10 manufacturing CRM tools reviewed showcase robust solutions designed to meet industry-specific needs, with Salesforce Manufacturing Cloud leading as the most comprehensive choice, offering specialized features like asset management and predictive analytics for optimized customer relationships. Microsoft Dynamics 365 and NetSuite closely follow, providing integrated ERP and CRM functionalities that suit diverse operational requirements, from enterprise scalability to cloud-based simplicity. Each tool addresses unique priorities, ensuring there is a strong option for every manufacturer, big or small.
Take the next step in enhancing your customer management—explore Salesforce Manufacturing Cloud to unlock its transformative capabilities and drive efficiency in your operations.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
