Quick Overview
- 1#1: Plex - Cloud-based MES and ERP platform delivering real-time visibility and tracking of manufacturing processes from order to delivery.
- 2#2: Epicor Kinetic - Comprehensive ERP system for tracking production scheduling, inventory, quality control, and shop floor operations in manufacturing.
- 3#3: SAP Digital Manufacturing - Cloud solution providing end-to-end manufacturing execution with real-time process monitoring and performance analytics.
- 4#4: Oracle Manufacturing Cloud - Cloud-based platform for real-time manufacturing process management, execution, and supply chain tracking.
- 5#5: Siemens Opcenter - MES software for digitalizing manufacturing operations with detailed process tracking and execution control.
- 6#6: DELMIAworks - All-in-one ERP/MES system for real-time shop floor tracking, production management, and quality assurance.
- 7#7: Infor CloudSuite Industrial - Enterprise software suite for tracking discrete manufacturing processes from planning to execution and compliance.
- 8#8: MRPeasy - Cloud MRP software for small to mid-sized manufacturers to track production orders, materials, and processes in real-time.
- 9#9: Katana - Manufacturing ERP tool for live tracking of inventory, production planning, and shop floor activities.
- 10#10: Prodsmart - Real-time shop floor management app for tracking manufacturing processes, productivity, and waste reduction.
We ranked these tools based on core functionality, user experience, and value, prioritizing features like real-time monitoring, integration capabilities, and scalability to meet the diverse needs of modern manufacturers.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines leading Manufacturing Process Tracking Software tools such as Plex, Epicor Kinetic, SAP Digital Manufacturing, Oracle Manufacturing Cloud, Siemens Opcenter, and more, offering insights into key features and operational suitability to help readers identify the right fit for their needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Plex Cloud-based MES and ERP platform delivering real-time visibility and tracking of manufacturing processes from order to delivery. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.7/10 | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | Epicor Kinetic Comprehensive ERP system for tracking production scheduling, inventory, quality control, and shop floor operations in manufacturing. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 3 | SAP Digital Manufacturing Cloud solution providing end-to-end manufacturing execution with real-time process monitoring and performance analytics. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.1/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | Oracle Manufacturing Cloud Cloud-based platform for real-time manufacturing process management, execution, and supply chain tracking. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | Siemens Opcenter MES software for digitalizing manufacturing operations with detailed process tracking and execution control. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 6 | DELMIAworks All-in-one ERP/MES system for real-time shop floor tracking, production management, and quality assurance. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 7 | Infor CloudSuite Industrial Enterprise software suite for tracking discrete manufacturing processes from planning to execution and compliance. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | MRPeasy Cloud MRP software for small to mid-sized manufacturers to track production orders, materials, and processes in real-time. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 9 | Katana Manufacturing ERP tool for live tracking of inventory, production planning, and shop floor activities. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | Prodsmart Real-time shop floor management app for tracking manufacturing processes, productivity, and waste reduction. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.7/10 |
Cloud-based MES and ERP platform delivering real-time visibility and tracking of manufacturing processes from order to delivery.
Comprehensive ERP system for tracking production scheduling, inventory, quality control, and shop floor operations in manufacturing.
Cloud solution providing end-to-end manufacturing execution with real-time process monitoring and performance analytics.
Cloud-based platform for real-time manufacturing process management, execution, and supply chain tracking.
MES software for digitalizing manufacturing operations with detailed process tracking and execution control.
All-in-one ERP/MES system for real-time shop floor tracking, production management, and quality assurance.
Enterprise software suite for tracking discrete manufacturing processes from planning to execution and compliance.
Cloud MRP software for small to mid-sized manufacturers to track production orders, materials, and processes in real-time.
Manufacturing ERP tool for live tracking of inventory, production planning, and shop floor activities.
Real-time shop floor management app for tracking manufacturing processes, productivity, and waste reduction.
Plex
enterpriseCloud-based MES and ERP platform delivering real-time visibility and tracking of manufacturing processes from order to delivery.
Infinite cloud scalability with zero on-premises infrastructure, enabling instant deployment and real-time global shop floor monitoring
Plex is a cloud-native Manufacturing Execution System (MES) and ERP platform tailored for real-time tracking and optimization of manufacturing processes. It provides end-to-end visibility into production workflows, quality control, inventory management, and supply chain operations. Manufacturers use Plex to monitor shop floor activities, track work-in-progress, ensure compliance, and drive continuous improvement through data-driven insights.
Pros
- Real-time production tracking with IoT sensor integration
- Scalable cloud architecture with no hardware requirements
- Comprehensive modules for MES, QMS, and SCM in one platform
Cons
- Steep initial learning curve for complex setups
- Custom pricing can be expensive for smaller operations
- Implementation may require consulting support
Best For
Mid-to-large manufacturers in industries like automotive, aerospace, and electronics needing robust, real-time process tracking and enterprise-wide visibility.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing based on production volume and users, typically starting at $5,000/month for mid-sized operations with enterprise quotes required.
Epicor Kinetic
enterpriseComprehensive ERP system for tracking production scheduling, inventory, quality control, and shop floor operations in manufacturing.
Integrated MES with real-time IoT data capture for precise shop floor monitoring and traceability
Epicor Kinetic is a cloud-based ERP platform tailored for manufacturers, providing advanced manufacturing process tracking through its integrated MES and production management modules. It delivers real-time visibility into shop floor operations, including work-in-progress tracking, machine utilization, quality control, and material traceability from raw materials to finished goods. Customizable dashboards and analytics tools enable proactive decision-making to optimize processes and reduce downtime.
Pros
- Comprehensive real-time tracking with IoT and machine integration
- Robust analytics and customizable dashboards for process insights
- Scalable for complex, multi-site manufacturing environments
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive customization options
- Lengthy implementation process for full deployment
- Premium pricing requires significant investment
Best For
Mid-to-large manufacturers needing enterprise-grade ERP with deep process tracking and MES integration.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription pricing; typically starts at $150-300/user/month for cloud, depending on modules and scale.
SAP Digital Manufacturing
enterpriseCloud solution providing end-to-end manufacturing execution with real-time process monitoring and performance analytics.
Production Operator Dashboard (POD) for intuitive, real-time shop floor execution and digital work instructions
SAP Digital Manufacturing is a cloud-based Manufacturing Execution System (MES) that provides real-time visibility and control over production processes, from planning and scheduling to execution and quality management. It integrates seamlessly with SAP S/4HANA and leverages IoT, AI, and machine learning to track KPIs, monitor equipment performance, and optimize manufacturing workflows across discrete, process, and repetitive industries. Designed for enterprise-scale operations, it enables digital thread connectivity for end-to-end traceability and data-driven decision-making.
Pros
- Comprehensive real-time tracking with advanced analytics and AI-driven insights
- Seamless integration with SAP ERP and supply chain systems
- Highly scalable for global, multi-site manufacturing operations
Cons
- High implementation costs and complexity requiring expert consultants
- Steep learning curve for non-SAP users and customization needs
- Pricing is opaque and scales expensively with production volume
Best For
Large enterprises with existing SAP infrastructure seeking enterprise-grade process tracking and optimization.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; typically starts at $50,000+ annually for basic deployments, scaling to millions based on users, sites, and modules.
Oracle Manufacturing Cloud
enterpriseCloud-based platform for real-time manufacturing process management, execution, and supply chain tracking.
IoT Production Monitor for real-time machine data capture and digital twin visualizations of manufacturing processes
Oracle Manufacturing Cloud is a robust, cloud-based ERP solution with advanced MES capabilities designed for end-to-end manufacturing operations management. It provides real-time visibility into production processes, including work order tracking, shop floor execution, quality management, and inventory control. Leveraging IoT integration, AI analytics, and mobile accessibility, it enables manufacturers to monitor processes, predict issues, and ensure compliance across global operations.
Pros
- Comprehensive real-time process tracking with IoT and sensor integration
- Deep analytics and AI for predictive insights and optimization
- Seamless scalability and integration with Oracle SCM/ERP ecosystem
Cons
- High implementation complexity and customization costs
- Steep learning curve for non-enterprise users
- Premium pricing not ideal for SMBs
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, global manufacturing operations needing integrated ERP-MES for precise process tracking and analytics.
Pricing
Subscription-based; custom quotes starting at $1,000+/month per module/user, scaling with deployment size and features.
Siemens Opcenter
enterpriseMES software for digitalizing manufacturing operations with detailed process tracking and execution control.
Active Digital Plant framework for real-time digital twin synchronization and predictive process optimization
Siemens Opcenter is a robust Manufacturing Execution System (MES) suite tailored for discrete, process, and repetitive manufacturing, providing end-to-end visibility and control over production processes. It tracks real-time shop floor activities, including machine performance, material flow, operator tasks, and quality checks, while enabling detailed genealogy and compliance reporting. Integrated with Siemens' digital enterprise portfolio, it supports advanced planning, simulation, and analytics to optimize manufacturing efficiency.
Pros
- Comprehensive real-time tracking and traceability for complex processes
- Deep integration with Siemens PLM, ERP, and IoT platforms
- Powerful analytics and compliance tools for regulated industries
Cons
- High initial implementation costs and complexity
- Steep learning curve requiring extensive training
- Customization often needed outside Siemens ecosystems
Best For
Large-scale manufacturers in automotive, aerospace, or pharmaceuticals needing enterprise-grade MES with digital twin integration.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise licensing; typically starts at $50,000+ annually per site, scaling with modules and users.
DELMIAworks
enterpriseAll-in-one ERP/MES system for real-time shop floor tracking, production management, and quality assurance.
Real-time Manufacturing Intelligence dashboard for instantaneous process visibility and predictive analytics
DELMIAworks, formerly IQMS, is an integrated ERP and MES platform tailored for discrete, repetitive, process, and mixed-mode manufacturers, offering real-time tracking of production processes from scheduling to execution. It provides comprehensive visibility into shop floor operations, including machine monitoring, labor tracking, quality management, and material traceability. The software leverages advanced analytics to optimize manufacturing workflows and ensure regulatory compliance.
Pros
- Real-time shop floor monitoring and data collection for precise process tracking
- Integrated ERP/MES functionality reduces silos and streamlines operations
- Strong scalability and customization for complex manufacturing environments
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation process
- High pricing that may not suit smaller manufacturers
- User interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-native solutions
Best For
Mid-sized to large manufacturers in discrete or process industries seeking robust, integrated ERP/MES for detailed production tracking.
Pricing
Custom quotes typically start at $75/user/month for cloud deployments, with on-premise options exceeding $100K annually based on modules and users.
Infor CloudSuite Industrial
enterpriseEnterprise software suite for tracking discrete manufacturing processes from planning to execution and compliance.
Embedded Intelligent MES with touchscreen shop floor data capture and real-time production intelligence dashboards
Infor CloudSuite Industrial is a cloud-based ERP solution tailored for industrial machinery and equipment manufacturers, featuring integrated MES capabilities for comprehensive manufacturing process tracking. It enables real-time visibility into shop floor operations, production scheduling, material traceability, quality management, and compliance reporting. The software supports complex scenarios like engineer-to-order and make-to-order production with advanced planning tools and lot/serial number genealogy.
Pros
- Robust real-time shop floor tracking and MES integration
- Strong traceability and genealogy for compliance-heavy industries
- Advanced scheduling with APS for complex manufacturing
Cons
- Complex implementation and customization process
- Steep learning curve for non-ERP users
- High cost unsuitable for small-scale operations
Best For
Mid-to-large industrial manufacturers needing integrated ERP-MES for engineer-to-order or complex discrete production tracking.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription pricing, typically $150-$300/user/month plus significant implementation fees starting at $100K+.
MRPeasy
specializedCloud MRP software for small to mid-sized manufacturers to track production orders, materials, and processes in real-time.
Mobile shop floor data capture for accurate, real-time production tracking and reporting
MRPeasy is a cloud-based MRP/ERP software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers, focusing on production planning, inventory control, and real-time shop floor tracking. It enables detailed monitoring of manufacturing processes through work orders, operation sequencing, material consumption logging, and production reporting via mobile apps and barcode scanning. The platform integrates CRM, purchasing, and basic accounting to streamline end-to-end operations for make-to-order businesses.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop production scheduling for efficient process planning
- Real-time shop floor tracking with mobile app and barcode support
- Comprehensive BOM management with infinite nesting for complex assemblies
Cons
- Minimum 10-user requirement limits appeal for very small operations
- Limited advanced analytics and reporting customization
- Higher-tier plans needed for full ERP features, increasing costs
Best For
Small to medium make-to-order manufacturers needing user-friendly real-time process tracking without complex IT setup.
Pricing
Starts at $49/user/month (minimum 10 users, annual billing) for basic production planning; scales to $99+/user/month for full MRP/ERP features.
Katana
specializedManufacturing ERP tool for live tracking of inventory, production planning, and shop floor activities.
Dynamic Live Production Board that provides real-time, color-coded visibility into work orders, bottlenecks, and resource allocation
Katana is a cloud-based MRP software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers, offering real-time tracking of inventory, production schedules, and manufacturing processes. It features visual production boards, automated planning, and multi-location inventory management to streamline workflows from raw materials to finished goods. The platform integrates seamlessly with e-commerce and accounting tools, providing end-to-end visibility for make-to-order or make-to-stock operations.
Pros
- Intuitive visual interface with drag-and-drop production scheduling
- Real-time inventory and shop floor tracking across multiple locations
- Strong integrations with QuickBooks, Shopify, and other tools
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics and custom reporting options
- Pricing can escalate quickly for larger teams or high-volume operations
- Less suitable for highly complex or engineer-to-order manufacturing
Best For
Small to medium-sized manufacturers seeking an easy-to-use, visual tool for tracking production processes and inventory without needing extensive customization.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month for Cloud Inventory, $179/month for Manufacturing plan (billed annually; scales to $599+/month for Professional tier based on users and orders)
Prodsmart
specializedReal-time shop floor management app for tracking manufacturing processes, productivity, and waste reduction.
Mobile-first operator interface for barcode/RFID scanning and real-time data logging directly from the shop floor
Prodsmart is a cloud-based Manufacturing Execution System (MES) designed for real-time shop floor tracking and production management. It allows operators to capture data via mobile apps using barcodes or RFID, providing live visibility into processes, OEE, downtime, and inventory. Managers access customizable dashboards for KPIs, scheduling, and quality control to optimize manufacturing efficiency.
Pros
- Real-time shop floor visibility with mobile data capture
- Quick deployment without hardware investments
- Strong OEE and downtime tracking tools
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics compared to enterprise MES
- Pricing lacks transparency and can scale expensively
- Integrations may require custom work
Best For
Small to medium-sized manufacturers needing simple, mobile-first process tracking for improved shop floor efficiency.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting around €50/user/month, scaled by production volume and features.
Conclusion
The reviewed software highlights the range of options available for modern manufacturing process tracking, with Plex emerging as the top choice for its cloud-based MES and ERP platform that provides real-time visibility from order to delivery. While Epicor Kinetic offers a comprehensive ERP system for end-to-end operations and SAP Digital Manufacturing delivers powerful real-time monitoring and analytics, they serve distinct needs, making them strong alternatives. Ultimately, Plex stands out as a versatile solution that streamlines processes, making it the optimal pick for many manufacturing environments.
To experience enhanced process tracking and operational efficiency, readers are encouraged to explore Plex, the top-ranked software in this review.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison