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Manufacturing Engineering

Top 10 Best Manufacturing Planning Software of 2026

Discover top 10 manufacturing planning software solutions to streamline production. Compare features and find the best fit for your business today.

Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Feb 11, 2026

10 tools comparedExpert reviewed
Independent evaluation · Unbiased commentary · Updated regularly
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Efficient manufacturing planning is a cornerstone of operational success, enabling organizations to align production with demand, minimize waste, and enhance scalability. With a diverse array of tools—from AI-powered ERP systems to specialized MRP and scheduling platforms—selecting the right software is critical to staying competitive in dynamic markets.

Quick Overview

  1. 1#1: SAP S/4HANA - Delivers AI-powered manufacturing planning with advanced MRP, production scheduling, demand forecasting, and supply chain integration.
  2. 2#2: Oracle Fusion Cloud SCM - Provides comprehensive cloud-based manufacturing planning including production orchestration, capacity management, and predictive analytics.
  3. 3#3: Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management - Offers integrated planning for manufacturing operations with production control, inventory optimization, and real-time visibility.
  4. 4#4: Epicor Kinetic - Supports discrete and process manufacturing planning with scheduling, shop floor management, and multi-site capabilities.
  5. 5#5: Plex Smart Manufacturing Platform - Cloud MES/ERP for real-time production planning, traceability, and quality control in manufacturing environments.
  6. 6#6: Infor CloudSuite Industrial - Industry-specific ERP for engineer-to-order manufacturing with advanced planning, scheduling, and repetitive processing.
  7. 7#7: PlanetTogether - Advanced planning and scheduling software that optimizes manufacturing production plans across finite capacity constraints.
  8. 8#8: MRPeasy - Cloud MRP software for small manufacturers handling production planning, inventory, purchasing, and shop floor control.
  9. 9#9: Katana MRP - Visual manufacturing planning tool for inventory tracking, production scheduling, and order fulfillment in SMBs.
  10. 10#10: Fishbowl - Inventory and manufacturing resource planning software with BOM management, work orders, and QuickBooks integration.

Tools were ranked based on technical depth, including AI/ML integration, cloud capabilities, and industry-specific features; reliability and user experience; and overall value, ensuring suitability for both small businesses and large-scale manufacturers.

Comparison Table

This comparison table examines top manufacturing planning software tools, including SAP S/4HANA, Oracle Fusion Cloud SCM, Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management, Epicor Kinetic, Plex Smart Manufacturing Platform, and others, to guide readers in selecting solutions that match their operational needs. It outlines key features, integration strengths, and adaptability to varied production workflows, equipping users to make informed choices for optimized planning and execution.

Delivers AI-powered manufacturing planning with advanced MRP, production scheduling, demand forecasting, and supply chain integration.

Features
9.9/10
Ease
7.4/10
Value
8.7/10

Provides comprehensive cloud-based manufacturing planning including production orchestration, capacity management, and predictive analytics.

Features
9.6/10
Ease
7.8/10
Value
8.7/10

Offers integrated planning for manufacturing operations with production control, inventory optimization, and real-time visibility.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
7.8/10
Value
8.0/10

Supports discrete and process manufacturing planning with scheduling, shop floor management, and multi-site capabilities.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
7.5/10
Value
8.0/10

Cloud MES/ERP for real-time production planning, traceability, and quality control in manufacturing environments.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
8.0/10
Value
8.4/10

Industry-specific ERP for engineer-to-order manufacturing with advanced planning, scheduling, and repetitive processing.

Features
8.8/10
Ease
7.2/10
Value
7.8/10

Advanced planning and scheduling software that optimizes manufacturing production plans across finite capacity constraints.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
8.1/10
Value
8.3/10
8MRPeasy logo8.5/10

Cloud MRP software for small manufacturers handling production planning, inventory, purchasing, and shop floor control.

Features
8.7/10
Ease
9.2/10
Value
8.6/10
9Katana MRP logo8.6/10

Visual manufacturing planning tool for inventory tracking, production scheduling, and order fulfillment in SMBs.

Features
8.8/10
Ease
9.1/10
Value
8.3/10
10Fishbowl logo7.8/10

Inventory and manufacturing resource planning software with BOM management, work orders, and QuickBooks integration.

Features
8.2/10
Ease
7.0/10
Value
7.9/10
1
SAP S/4HANA logo

SAP S/4HANA

enterprise

Delivers AI-powered manufacturing planning with advanced MRP, production scheduling, demand forecasting, and supply chain integration.

Overall Rating9.6/10
Features
9.9/10
Ease of Use
7.4/10
Value
8.7/10
Standout Feature

HANA-powered real-time MRP and advanced planning simulations for instant what-if analysis and decision-making

SAP S/4HANA is an enterprise-grade ERP platform with robust manufacturing planning capabilities, including advanced MRP, production planning, detailed scheduling, and demand-driven replenishment. Powered by the in-memory SAP HANA database, it enables real-time planning, predictive analytics, and scenario simulations for optimized production and inventory management. It integrates seamlessly across the supply chain, supporting complex manufacturing environments from discrete to process industries.

Pros

  • Comprehensive advanced planning tools like MRP Live and Predictive MRP for real-time optimization
  • Deep integration with supply chain, finance, and other ERP modules
  • Scalable for global enterprises with AI/ML-driven insights and simulations

Cons

  • Steep learning curve and complex configuration requiring skilled consultants
  • High upfront implementation costs and long deployment timelines
  • Premium pricing not ideal for small or mid-sized manufacturers

Best For

Large multinational manufacturing enterprises needing an integrated, real-time ERP for end-to-end production planning and supply chain orchestration.

Pricing

Custom enterprise licensing; cloud subscriptions typically start at $10,000+ monthly for mid-sized deployments, with on-premise options based on user count and modules.

2
Oracle Fusion Cloud SCM logo

Oracle Fusion Cloud SCM

enterprise

Provides comprehensive cloud-based manufacturing planning including production orchestration, capacity management, and predictive analytics.

Overall Rating9.2/10
Features
9.6/10
Ease of Use
7.8/10
Value
8.7/10
Standout Feature

Constraint-based responsive planning engine that dynamically adjusts production schedules in real-time across the supply chain

Oracle Fusion Cloud SCM is a comprehensive cloud-based supply chain management platform with robust manufacturing planning capabilities, including demand management, supply planning, production scheduling, and capacity optimization. It leverages AI and machine learning for accurate forecasting, constraint-based planning, and real-time scenario simulations to help manufacturers align production with demand. Integrated seamlessly with Oracle's ERP and other cloud services, it provides end-to-end visibility and agility for complex global operations.

Pros

  • Advanced AI-driven demand sensing and forecasting for precise planning
  • Constraint-based optimization and multi-scenario simulations for responsive manufacturing
  • Seamless integration with Oracle ERP and analytics for unified operations

Cons

  • Steep learning curve and complex configuration requiring expert implementation
  • High licensing and customization costs unsuitable for small operations
  • Lengthy deployment timelines for full enterprise rollout

Best For

Large-scale manufacturing enterprises with complex, global supply chains needing integrated AI-powered planning.

Pricing

Custom enterprise subscription pricing, typically $300-$600 per user/month depending on modules, with minimum commitments starting at $50,000-$100,000 annually.

3
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management logo

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management

enterprise

Offers integrated planning for manufacturing operations with production control, inventory optimization, and real-time visibility.

Overall Rating8.5/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
7.8/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

AI-powered demand sensing and intelligent production scheduling for proactive planning adjustments

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management is a robust ERP platform designed to streamline manufacturing planning, production control, inventory management, and end-to-end supply chain operations. It offers advanced capabilities like master planning, material requirements planning (MRP), demand forecasting powered by AI, and capacity scheduling to optimize manufacturing processes. Integrated with Microsoft Azure and Power Platform, it provides real-time visibility and predictive analytics for efficient decision-making in complex manufacturing environments.

Pros

  • Comprehensive MRP, master planning, and AI-driven forecasting tools
  • Seamless integration with Microsoft ecosystem including Power BI and Azure
  • Scalable for enterprise-level manufacturing with real-time IoT insights

Cons

  • Steep learning curve and complex implementation requiring expertise
  • High subscription and customization costs
  • Overkill for small to mid-sized manufacturers

Best For

Large manufacturing enterprises needing an integrated ERP with advanced planning and AI capabilities.

Pricing

Subscription-based starting at $180/user/month for Supply Chain Management module, plus implementation fees often exceeding $100K.

4
Epicor Kinetic logo

Epicor Kinetic

enterprise

Supports discrete and process manufacturing planning with scheduling, shop floor management, and multi-site capabilities.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
7.5/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

Epicor APS with AI-driven optimization for dynamic scheduling and constraint-based planning

Epicor Kinetic is a cloud-based ERP platform tailored for manufacturing, providing advanced tools for production planning, scheduling, material requirements planning (MRP), and demand forecasting. It integrates advanced planning and scheduling (APS) with real-time shop floor visibility through its MES capabilities, enabling optimized resource allocation and supply chain management. The software supports discrete, process, and mixed-mode manufacturing, helping businesses streamline operations from order to delivery.

Pros

  • Robust APS and MRP for precise production scheduling and inventory optimization
  • Real-time dashboards and analytics for shop floor visibility
  • Scalable integration with MES, CRM, and supply chain modules

Cons

  • Complex implementation requiring significant time and expertise
  • Steep learning curve for non-technical users
  • Premium pricing that may not suit small manufacturers

Best For

Mid-sized to enterprise manufacturers needing a comprehensive ERP with integrated advanced planning capabilities.

Pricing

Subscription-based, starting at ~$175/user/month; custom quotes for full ERP deployments based on modules, users, and scale.

5
Plex Smart Manufacturing Platform logo

Plex Smart Manufacturing Platform

enterprise

Cloud MES/ERP for real-time production planning, traceability, and quality control in manufacturing environments.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
8.0/10
Value
8.4/10
Standout Feature

Embedded real-time MES that feeds live shop floor data directly into planning algorithms for dynamic scheduling

Plex Smart Manufacturing Platform is a cloud-native ERP and MES solution designed specifically for discrete manufacturers, providing end-to-end visibility from planning to execution. It offers robust manufacturing planning tools including MRP, advanced scheduling, capacity planning, and demand forecasting to optimize production workflows. The platform integrates real-time shop floor data with enterprise planning for agile decision-making and improved efficiency.

Pros

  • Seamless integration of MES and ERP for real-time planning adjustments
  • Strong MRP and APS capabilities tailored for discrete manufacturing
  • Scalable cloud architecture with automatic updates and high uptime

Cons

  • Pricing can be high for smaller operations
  • Initial setup and data migration may require significant effort
  • Customization options are more limited than traditional on-premise ERPs

Best For

Mid-sized discrete manufacturers looking for an integrated cloud-based platform to streamline production planning and shop floor execution.

Pricing

Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $1,000–$5,000/month depending on users, modules, and production volume.

6
Infor CloudSuite Industrial logo

Infor CloudSuite Industrial

enterprise

Industry-specific ERP for engineer-to-order manufacturing with advanced planning, scheduling, and repetitive processing.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
8.8/10
Ease of Use
7.2/10
Value
7.8/10
Standout Feature

Integrated engineer-to-order configurator with dynamic pegging for handling highly customizable products

Infor CloudSuite Industrial is a cloud-based ERP solution optimized for discrete and make-to-order manufacturers, providing end-to-end manufacturing planning capabilities. It includes advanced MRP, production scheduling, capacity planning, shop floor control, and demand forecasting to streamline operations. The platform integrates with MES, CRM, and financials for holistic visibility and supports complex engineer-to-order processes with configurators and lot traceability.

Pros

  • Deep industry-specific manufacturing planning tools like MRP and APS
  • Seamless integration with Infor's ecosystem and third-party MES/IoT
  • Scalable for complex ETO/MTO environments with real-time analytics

Cons

  • Steep learning curve and complex customization
  • High implementation costs and time
  • User interface feels dated compared to modern SaaS alternatives

Best For

Mid-to-large discrete manufacturers handling engineer-to-order or mixed-mode production with complex supply chains.

Pricing

Quote-based subscription pricing, typically $150-$300/user/month depending on modules, plus significant implementation fees.

7
PlanetTogether logo

PlanetTogether

specialized

Advanced planning and scheduling software that optimizes manufacturing production plans across finite capacity constraints.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
8.1/10
Value
8.3/10
Standout Feature

Deep ERP-agnostic integration acting as a universal planning engine with automatic bidirectional data flow.

PlanetTogether is a cloud-based Advanced Planning and Scheduling (APS) software tailored for manufacturing, offering finite capacity scheduling, visual Gantt charts, and optimization algorithms to create efficient production plans. It excels in handling complex constraints like material availability, labor shifts, and machine setups while integrating deeply with ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, and Epicor. The platform supports real-time rescheduling, what-if simulations, and multi-plant coordination to boost on-time delivery and reduce inventory costs.

Pros

  • Seamless integration with major ERP systems for automatic data sync
  • Powerful optimization engine for finite capacity planning and what-if scenarios
  • Intuitive visual Gantt charts and drag-and-drop scheduling

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for advanced configuration and custom rules
  • Pricing can be prohibitive for small manufacturers
  • Limited built-in reporting; relies on ERP for analytics

Best For

Mid-to-large manufacturers with complex, multi-site operations needing ERP-integrated APS for optimized scheduling.

Pricing

Quote-based subscription starting at ~$10,000-$20,000 annually per factory, scaling with users, sites, and modules.

Visit PlanetTogetherplanettogether.com
8
MRPeasy logo

MRPeasy

specialized

Cloud MRP software for small manufacturers handling production planning, inventory, purchasing, and shop floor control.

Overall Rating8.5/10
Features
8.7/10
Ease of Use
9.2/10
Value
8.6/10
Standout Feature

Drag-and-drop visual production scheduling with infinite capacity planning for quick adjustments

MRPeasy is a cloud-based MRP/ERP software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers, offering end-to-end visibility into production planning, inventory management, and shop floor operations. It supports bill of materials (BOM) management, procurement, sales orders, and real-time reporting to streamline discrete and make-to-order manufacturing processes. The platform emphasizes simplicity and quick implementation, making it suitable for businesses seeking affordable manufacturing resource planning without complex setups.

Pros

  • Intuitive, user-friendly interface with minimal training required
  • Strong production scheduling and real-time inventory tracking
  • Affordable pricing scalable for SMBs

Cons

  • Limited advanced customization for complex manufacturing
  • Reporting and analytics lack depth compared to enterprise solutions
  • Scalability issues for very large operations

Best For

Small to medium-sized discrete manufacturers needing straightforward, cloud-based production planning and inventory control.

Pricing

Starts at $49 per user per month (Basic plan), with Production ($59), Standard ($79), and custom enterprise tiers; billed annually.

Visit MRPeasymrpeasy.com
9
Katana MRP logo

Katana MRP

specialized

Visual manufacturing planning tool for inventory tracking, production scheduling, and order fulfillment in SMBs.

Overall Rating8.6/10
Features
8.8/10
Ease of Use
9.1/10
Value
8.3/10
Standout Feature

Dynamic, real-time MRP engine that instantly recalculates material needs across multi-level BOMs based on live demand and inventory changes

Katana MRP is a cloud-based manufacturing resource planning (MRP) software designed for small to medium-sized manufacturers to manage inventory, production scheduling, and order fulfillment in real-time. It automates material requirements planning, tracks multi-level bills of materials (BOMs), and provides shop floor execution tools to minimize stockouts and overproduction. With seamless integrations to e-commerce platforms like Shopify and accounting software like QuickBooks, it streamlines operations from sales to delivery.

Pros

  • Intuitive, visual interface with drag-and-drop scheduling
  • Real-time inventory and MRP automation for accurate planning
  • Strong integrations with e-commerce and accounting tools

Cons

  • Limited advanced reporting and analytics capabilities
  • Pricing scales quickly for larger teams or high-volume users
  • Customization options are somewhat restricted compared to enterprise solutions

Best For

Small to medium-sized make-to-order or make-to-stock manufacturers seeking an easy-to-use MRP without heavy IT involvement.

Pricing

Starts at $99/month (Essentials for 50 orders/mo), $299/month (Professional for 500 orders/mo), custom Enterprise plans.

Visit Katana MRPkatanamrp.com
10
Fishbowl logo

Fishbowl

specialized

Inventory and manufacturing resource planning software with BOM management, work orders, and QuickBooks integration.

Overall Rating7.8/10
Features
8.2/10
Ease of Use
7.0/10
Value
7.9/10
Standout Feature

Deep, native integration with QuickBooks that syncs inventory, sales, and production data in real-time

Fishbowl is a robust inventory management platform with strong manufacturing capabilities, including bill of materials (BOM), work orders, production scheduling, and material requirements planning (MRP) for light to mid-level manufacturing operations. It provides real-time tracking across multiple warehouses, order fulfillment, and seamless integration with accounting software like QuickBooks. Designed primarily for small to medium-sized businesses, it helps streamline production planning and inventory control without the complexity of full-scale ERPs.

Pros

  • Seamless two-way integration with QuickBooks for real-time accounting
  • Comprehensive BOM, work orders, and basic MRP for efficient production planning
  • Multi-location inventory tracking with barcode scanning support

Cons

  • Steeper learning curve due to customizable interface and on-premise focus
  • Limited advanced scheduling tools compared to dedicated APS software
  • Reporting and dashboards lack modern visualization options

Best For

Small to medium-sized manufacturers using QuickBooks who need affordable inventory and production management without enterprise complexity.

Pricing

One-time licenses start at ~$4,395 for Warehouse edition; Manufacturing module adds ~$1,500+, plus annual support (~20% of license cost); cloud options available via Fishbowl Prime.

Visit Fishbowlfishbowlinventory.com

Conclusion

The reviewed tools showcase a range of strengths, with SAP S/4HANA leading as the top choice, thanks to its robust AI-powered planning and seamless integration. Oracle Fusion Cloud SCM impresses with its comprehensive cloud-based capabilities, while Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management stands out for its real-time visibility and operational control. Each offers unique value, making the top three strong options for various manufacturing needs.

SAP S/4HANA logo
Our Top Pick
SAP S/4HANA

Take the first step toward optimized manufacturing planning—explore SAP S/4HANA to leverage its advanced features and drive efficiency in your operations.