Quick Overview
- 1#1: Plex - Cloud-native MES platform delivering real-time production tracking, quality management, and supply chain visibility for manufacturers.
- 2#2: Epicor Kinetic - Comprehensive ERP system with advanced manufacturing execution, production scheduling, and real-time tracking features.
- 3#3: SAP Digital Manufacturing Cloud - Cloud-based solution for shop floor control, execution management, and performance tracking in complex manufacturing environments.
- 4#4: Oracle Manufacturing Cloud - Integrated cloud ERP for production planning, execution monitoring, and real-time manufacturing insights.
- 5#5: Siemens Opcenter - MES suite providing detailed production tracking, quality assurance, and operational optimization for discrete and process manufacturing.
- 6#6: MRPeasy - Cloud MRP software for small manufacturers offering production scheduling, inventory tracking, and order management.
- 7#7: Katana - Real-time MRP platform for tracking production orders, inventory levels, and shop floor activities.
- 8#8: Prodsmart - Mobile app-based tool for real-time shop floor tracking, performance analytics, and waste reduction.
- 9#9: MachineMetrics - IIoT platform capturing machine data for production monitoring, downtime analysis, and efficiency improvements.
- 10#10: DELMIAworks - Integrated ERP/MES solution for job shops with production tracking, quoting, and quality control features.
Tools were selected by assessing key metrics: robust feature sets (including real-time monitoring and integration), user experience, scalability, and overall value, ensuring coverage across manufacturing types and operational needs.
Comparison Table
Effective manufacturing production tracking software is vital for streamlining operations, and this comparison table features key tools including Plex, Epicor Kinetic, SAP Digital Manufacturing Cloud, Oracle Manufacturing Cloud, Siemens Opcenter, and more. Readers will discover how these solutions vary in capabilities, benefits, and suitability, enabling informed choices tailored to their production workflows.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Plex Cloud-native MES platform delivering real-time production tracking, quality management, and supply chain visibility for manufacturers. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | Epicor Kinetic Comprehensive ERP system with advanced manufacturing execution, production scheduling, and real-time tracking features. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | SAP Digital Manufacturing Cloud Cloud-based solution for shop floor control, execution management, and performance tracking in complex manufacturing environments. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | Oracle Manufacturing Cloud Integrated cloud ERP for production planning, execution monitoring, and real-time manufacturing insights. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | Siemens Opcenter MES suite providing detailed production tracking, quality assurance, and operational optimization for discrete and process manufacturing. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 6 | MRPeasy Cloud MRP software for small manufacturers offering production scheduling, inventory tracking, and order management. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 7 | Katana Real-time MRP platform for tracking production orders, inventory levels, and shop floor activities. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | Prodsmart Mobile app-based tool for real-time shop floor tracking, performance analytics, and waste reduction. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.3/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | MachineMetrics IIoT platform capturing machine data for production monitoring, downtime analysis, and efficiency improvements. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | DELMIAworks Integrated ERP/MES solution for job shops with production tracking, quoting, and quality control features. | enterprise | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
Cloud-native MES platform delivering real-time production tracking, quality management, and supply chain visibility for manufacturers.
Comprehensive ERP system with advanced manufacturing execution, production scheduling, and real-time tracking features.
Cloud-based solution for shop floor control, execution management, and performance tracking in complex manufacturing environments.
Integrated cloud ERP for production planning, execution monitoring, and real-time manufacturing insights.
MES suite providing detailed production tracking, quality assurance, and operational optimization for discrete and process manufacturing.
Cloud MRP software for small manufacturers offering production scheduling, inventory tracking, and order management.
Real-time MRP platform for tracking production orders, inventory levels, and shop floor activities.
Mobile app-based tool for real-time shop floor tracking, performance analytics, and waste reduction.
IIoT platform capturing machine data for production monitoring, downtime analysis, and efficiency improvements.
Integrated ERP/MES solution for job shops with production tracking, quoting, and quality control features.
Plex
enterpriseCloud-native MES platform delivering real-time production tracking, quality management, and supply chain visibility for manufacturers.
Browser-based, device-agnostic real-time data capture from machines and operators without any on-premise software installation
Plex is a cloud-native smart manufacturing platform that serves as a comprehensive Manufacturing Execution System (MES) for real-time production tracking, quality control, inventory management, and supply chain orchestration. It captures machine data via IoT integrations, monitors shop floor activities, tracks work orders and assemblies, and provides actionable insights to optimize OEE and reduce downtime. Designed for discrete, process, and mixed-mode manufacturers, Plex unifies MES, QMS, ERP, and SCM in a single platform accessible via any browser or mobile device.
Pros
- Real-time production tracking with IoT and machine connectivity for precise OEE and downtime analysis
- Fully integrated MES-ERP-QMS platform eliminating data silos and manual entry
- Scalable cloud architecture with unlimited configurability and mobile-first access for shop floor operators
Cons
- High initial implementation costs and setup time for complex environments
- Custom pricing lacks transparency, challenging for small manufacturers
- Steep learning curve for advanced analytics and custom workflows
Best For
Mid-sized to large discrete and process manufacturers needing end-to-end production visibility and operational optimization.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting at ~$50,000/year for small deployments, scaling with users, plants, modules, and data volume; no upfront license fees.
Epicor Kinetic
enterpriseComprehensive ERP system with advanced manufacturing execution, production scheduling, and real-time tracking features.
Embedded MES with real-time IoT connectivity for end-to-end production visibility and predictive analytics
Epicor Kinetic is a cloud-based ERP platform tailored for manufacturing, delivering advanced production tracking through its integrated Manufacturing Execution System (MES). It enables real-time monitoring of shop floor activities, including job status, labor efficiency, material consumption, and quality checks. The software supports production scheduling, work order management, and traceability to optimize manufacturing workflows and reduce downtime.
Pros
- Real-time shop floor visibility and analytics for proactive decision-making
- Scalable MES integration with IoT and mobile access for flexible operations
- Comprehensive traceability and compliance tools for regulated industries
Cons
- Complex initial setup and customization requiring expert implementation
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Higher cost for smaller manufacturers compared to standalone tracking tools
Best For
Mid-to-large manufacturing enterprises needing an integrated ERP with robust production tracking and scalability.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; cloud subscriptions typically start at $175-$300 per user/month, depending on modules and deployment scale.
SAP Digital Manufacturing Cloud
enterpriseCloud-based solution for shop floor control, execution management, and performance tracking in complex manufacturing environments.
Unified Operations Control Center providing a single-pane-of-glass for real-time production monitoring, alerts, and contextual operator guidance
SAP Digital Manufacturing Cloud is a cloud-based Manufacturing Execution System (MES) that delivers real-time visibility, control, and optimization across the entire production lifecycle. It integrates IoT sensors, machine data, and ERP systems to track production orders, monitor equipment performance, and analyze KPIs like OEE in complex manufacturing environments. The platform supports shop floor execution, quality management, and predictive insights powered by AI, making it suitable for discrete and process industries seeking digital transformation.
Pros
- Seamless integration with SAP S/4HANA and broader ecosystem for unified data flow
- Advanced real-time analytics and AI-driven insights for production optimization
- Scalable IoT connectivity and robust OEE tracking for enterprise-scale operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup requiring specialized expertise
- High costs associated with implementation and customization
- Less flexible for non-SAP environments or smaller manufacturers
Best For
Large enterprises with existing SAP infrastructure needing comprehensive, real-time production tracking and optimization at scale.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $50,000+ annually for basic deployments, scaling with users, production lines, and modules.
Oracle Manufacturing Cloud
enterpriseIntegrated cloud ERP for production planning, execution monitoring, and real-time manufacturing insights.
Embedded MES with native IoT integration for real-time machine and production data capture
Oracle Manufacturing Cloud is a comprehensive cloud-based ERP solution tailored for manufacturing operations, providing real-time production tracking, shop floor management, and execution through its embedded Manufacturing Execution System (MES). It offers end-to-end visibility into work orders, material consumption, labor tracking, and quality control, integrated with IoT sensors and AI for predictive insights. The platform supports discrete, process, and repetitive manufacturing, enabling efficient production scheduling and performance analytics.
Pros
- Real-time production monitoring and dashboards for shop floor visibility
- Seamless integration with Oracle SCM and ERP for end-to-end tracking
- AI-driven analytics and IoT support for predictive maintenance
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex configuration
- High implementation and customization costs
- Overkill for small to mid-sized manufacturers
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, global manufacturing operations needing integrated production tracking and ERP capabilities.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing; typically starts at $300-$600 per user/month depending on modules, with minimum commitments.
Siemens Opcenter
enterpriseMES suite providing detailed production tracking, quality assurance, and operational optimization for discrete and process manufacturing.
Opcenter Intelligence for AI-powered real-time insights and predictive production adjustments
Siemens Opcenter is a robust Manufacturing Execution System (MES) suite tailored for discrete, process, and hybrid manufacturing, providing end-to-end production tracking from scheduling to execution. It delivers real-time visibility into shop floor operations, enabling precise monitoring of work-in-progress, resource utilization, and quality metrics. Opcenter excels in traceability, compliance, and integration with ERP and automation systems for optimized manufacturing intelligence.
Pros
- Comprehensive real-time production monitoring and genealogy for full traceability
- Advanced analytics and AI-driven optimization integrated with Siemens ecosystem
- Scalable for global enterprises with strong regulatory compliance tools
Cons
- Complex implementation requiring significant customization and expertise
- Steep learning curve for shop floor users and administrators
- High upfront costs that may not suit small to mid-sized operations
Best For
Large enterprise manufacturers in regulated industries like aerospace, automotive, and pharmaceuticals needing advanced production tracking and digital transformation.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $100,000+ annually for mid-sized deployments, with subscription or perpetual license options.
MRPeasy
specializedCloud MRP software for small manufacturers offering production scheduling, inventory tracking, and order management.
Mobile shop floor data collection for real-time production monitoring and accuracy
MRPeasy is a cloud-based ERP/MRP software designed specifically for small to medium-sized manufacturers, offering end-to-end production planning, scheduling, and tracking. It provides real-time visibility into shop floor operations, inventory levels, and manufacturing processes through features like Gantt charts, capacity planning, and mobile data collection. The platform integrates CRM, purchasing, sales, and financial reporting, eliminating the need for spreadsheets and multiple tools.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with minimal training required
- Real-time production tracking and mobile shop floor app
- Comprehensive MRP/ERP integration at an affordable price
Cons
- Limited advanced customization for complex workflows
- Scalability challenges for enterprises over 200 employees
- Reporting lacks some deep analytics compared to enterprise tools
Best For
Small to medium-sized make-to-order or make-to-stock manufacturers seeking an all-in-one, user-friendly solution for production tracking and planning.
Pricing
Starts at $49 per user/month (billed annually); scales with Gold ($99/user/month) and Enterprise plans based on production volume.
Katana
specializedReal-time MRP platform for tracking production orders, inventory levels, and shop floor activities.
Drag-and-drop visual production scheduler with live inventory synchronization
Katana is a cloud-based MRP software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers, offering real-time production tracking, inventory management, and order fulfillment capabilities. It features visual production scheduling, multi-location inventory control, and automated material requirements planning to streamline shop floor operations. Designed for make-to-order businesses, it integrates with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and accounting tools like QuickBooks for seamless workflows.
Pros
- Intuitive visual production scheduler with real-time updates
- Seamless integrations with e-commerce and accounting software
- Strong real-time inventory and shop floor tracking for SMBs
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics and reporting compared to enterprise solutions
- Pricing scales quickly for high-volume or multi-user teams
- Less suitable for complex, high-mix discrete manufacturing
Best For
Small to medium-sized make-to-order manufacturers seeking simple, visual production tracking without extensive IT setup.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Cloud, up to 100 orders/mo), $299/month (Pro, up to 500 orders), $799+/month (Enterprise, custom).
Prodsmart
specializedMobile app-based tool for real-time shop floor tracking, performance analytics, and waste reduction.
Mobile-first real-time production control with photo capture and geofencing for precise shop floor data entry
Prodsmart is a cloud-based Manufacturing Execution System (MES) designed for real-time production tracking and shop floor management. It enables manufacturers to monitor orders, track materials, labor, and machine performance via mobile apps, providing live dashboards for KPIs like OEE and downtime. The platform supports paperless operations, quality control, and integrations with ERPs to streamline workflows and reduce waste.
Pros
- Real-time visibility into production with mobile scanning and geolocation
- Intuitive dashboards and customizable alerts for quick issue resolution
- Strong focus on paperless factory and waste reduction tools
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for very small operations
- Advanced analytics require higher tiers
- Integrations may need custom setup for complex ERPs
Best For
Small to medium-sized manufacturers needing accessible, mobile-first real-time tracking without extensive IT infrastructure.
Pricing
Custom pricing starting at around $200-500/month based on users and features; free trial available.
MachineMetrics
specializedIIoT platform capturing machine data for production monitoring, downtime analysis, and efficiency improvements.
Frictionless EdgeConnect hardware for plug-and-play data capture from virtually any industrial machine
MachineMetrics is a cloud-based IIoT platform designed for manufacturing production tracking, offering real-time machine data collection, OEE monitoring, and performance analytics. It connects to CNC machines, robots, and other equipment via edge devices to track downtime, cycle times, and throughput. The software enables predictive maintenance, production scheduling optimization, and actionable insights to boost shop floor efficiency.
Pros
- Real-time OEE and downtime tracking with drill-down analytics
- Seamless integration with MES, ERP, and shop floor tools
- Mobile operator app for instant feedback and issue reporting
Cons
- Requires proprietary edge hardware for data collection
- Pricing scales quickly for larger fleets, less ideal for small shops
- Initial setup involves machine connectivity configuration
Best For
Mid-sized discrete manufacturers with CNC-heavy operations aiming to improve OEE through real-time data without heavy IT involvement.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting at ~$400-$600 per machine/month; includes hardware and scales with deployment size.
DELMIAworks
enterpriseIntegrated ERP/MES solution for job shops with production tracking, quoting, and quality control features.
Wireless real-time data collection from shop floor devices for instant production visibility
DELMIAworks is a comprehensive ERP and MES platform tailored for manufacturing, offering real-time production tracking, shop floor control, and scheduling to optimize operations. It integrates production data with inventory, quality management, and financials for end-to-end visibility. Originally from IQMS and now part of Dassault Systèmes, it supports discrete, repetitive, and mixed-mode manufacturing environments.
Pros
- Robust real-time production monitoring and OEE tracking
- Integrated ERP suite reduces need for multiple tools
- Strong support for industry-specific manufacturing processes
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complexity
- High implementation and customization costs
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-native solutions
Best For
Mid-sized manufacturers in discrete or repetitive industries seeking an all-in-one ERP with advanced production tracking.
Pricing
Quote-based; typically $50,000+ annually for mid-sized deployments, with on-premise or cloud options.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools cover diverse manufacturing needs, with Plex leading as the top choice—effectively unifying real-time tracking, quality management, and supply chain visibility. Epicor Kinetic impresses with its comprehensive ERP integration, making it a strong pick for end-to-end alignment, while SAP Digital Manufacturing Cloud stands out for managing complex, large-scale operations. Each offers unique strengths, but Plex’s holistic approach makes it the standout.
Don’t miss the opportunity to boost production efficiency—explore Plex today to experience its transformative real-time tracking and optimization capabilities.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison