Quick Overview
- 1#1: Epicor Kinetic - Comprehensive ERP platform with advanced project management, production scheduling, and resource planning tailored for manufacturing operations.
- 2#2: Plex - Cloud-native smart manufacturing platform offering real-time project tracking, MES, and supply chain management for end-to-end visibility.
- 3#3: Oracle NetSuite - Cloud ERP solution with manufacturing edition for project management, inventory control, and production planning integration.
- 4#4: MRPeasy - Cloud MRP software focused on production planning, scheduling, and project management for small to medium manufacturers.
- 5#5: Odoo - Modular open-source ERP with manufacturing and project management apps for streamlined operations and custom workflows.
- 6#6: Katana MRP - Real-time visual MRP tool for inventory tracking, production scheduling, and project oversight in small manufacturers.
- 7#7: JobBOSS² - Shop floor management software with quoting, scheduling, and project tracking for job shops and contract manufacturers.
- 8#8: Fishbowl - Inventory and manufacturing management software integrating with QuickBooks for order fulfillment and project tracking.
- 9#9: Prodsmart - Real-time shop floor control software for production monitoring, scheduling, and performance-based project management.
- 10#10: ERPNext - Open-source ERP system with manufacturing modules for project planning, BOM management, and production workflows.
These tools were evaluated based on robust manufacturing-specific features—including real-time tracking, integrated planning, and scalability—along with user-friendliness and value to ensure they meet the needs of diverse operational settings.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores top Manufacturing Project Management Software solutions, featuring Epicor Kinetic, Plex, Oracle NetSuite, MRPeasy, Odoo, and more, to guide users in understanding key functionalities and suitability. Readers will gain clarity on integration capabilities, scalability, and workflow alignment, enabling informed choices for their production and project management needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Epicor Kinetic Comprehensive ERP platform with advanced project management, production scheduling, and resource planning tailored for manufacturing operations. | enterprise | 9.3/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | Plex Cloud-native smart manufacturing platform offering real-time project tracking, MES, and supply chain management for end-to-end visibility. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.6/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Oracle NetSuite Cloud ERP solution with manufacturing edition for project management, inventory control, and production planning integration. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | MRPeasy Cloud MRP software focused on production planning, scheduling, and project management for small to medium manufacturers. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 5 | Odoo Modular open-source ERP with manufacturing and project management apps for streamlined operations and custom workflows. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 6 | Katana MRP Real-time visual MRP tool for inventory tracking, production scheduling, and project oversight in small manufacturers. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 7 | JobBOSS² Shop floor management software with quoting, scheduling, and project tracking for job shops and contract manufacturers. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 8 | Fishbowl Inventory and manufacturing management software integrating with QuickBooks for order fulfillment and project tracking. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 6.9/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 9 | Prodsmart Real-time shop floor control software for production monitoring, scheduling, and performance-based project management. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | ERPNext Open-source ERP system with manufacturing modules for project planning, BOM management, and production workflows. | other | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 9.5/10 |
Comprehensive ERP platform with advanced project management, production scheduling, and resource planning tailored for manufacturing operations.
Cloud-native smart manufacturing platform offering real-time project tracking, MES, and supply chain management for end-to-end visibility.
Cloud ERP solution with manufacturing edition for project management, inventory control, and production planning integration.
Cloud MRP software focused on production planning, scheduling, and project management for small to medium manufacturers.
Modular open-source ERP with manufacturing and project management apps for streamlined operations and custom workflows.
Real-time visual MRP tool for inventory tracking, production scheduling, and project oversight in small manufacturers.
Shop floor management software with quoting, scheduling, and project tracking for job shops and contract manufacturers.
Inventory and manufacturing management software integrating with QuickBooks for order fulfillment and project tracking.
Real-time shop floor control software for production monitoring, scheduling, and performance-based project management.
Open-source ERP system with manufacturing modules for project planning, BOM management, and production workflows.
Epicor Kinetic
enterpriseComprehensive ERP platform with advanced project management, production scheduling, and resource planning tailored for manufacturing operations.
Spectrum Advanced Planning and Scheduling (APS) for finite capacity planning across multi-site, multi-level BOM projects
Epicor Kinetic is a cloud-native ERP platform designed specifically for manufacturing enterprises, providing advanced project management tools for production planning, job scheduling, resource allocation, and cost tracking. It integrates seamlessly with shop floor execution, supply chain management, and financials to deliver real-time visibility into manufacturing projects from inception to completion. With features like Advanced Planning and Scheduling (APS) and project accounting, it excels in handling complex, discrete, and engineer-to-order manufacturing workflows.
Pros
- Deep integration of project management with core ERP functions for unparalleled manufacturing visibility
- Advanced APS and MES capabilities optimize scheduling and resource utilization in complex projects
- Scalable cloud deployment with robust analytics and AI-driven insights for data-informed decisions
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive customization options and feature depth
- High implementation costs and time for large-scale deployments
- Pricing is quote-based and can be premium for smaller manufacturers
Best For
Mid-to-large manufacturing companies managing complex, multi-phase production projects requiring tight ERP integration.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription pricing, typically starting at $150-300/user/month depending on modules, users, and deployment scale; includes implementation fees.
Plex
enterpriseCloud-native smart manufacturing platform offering real-time project tracking, MES, and supply chain management for end-to-end visibility.
Real-time synchronization across the entire manufacturing value chain via Plex's Infinite platform for predictive insights and zero-latency decision-making
Plex is a cloud-native smart manufacturing platform offering integrated ERP and MES solutions designed for discrete, hybrid, and process manufacturers. It provides real-time visibility into shop floor operations, production scheduling, quality management, supply chain coordination, and asset performance tracking. As a manufacturing project management tool, Plex excels in orchestrating complex production projects through automated workflows, resource allocation, and performance analytics to streamline operations from order to delivery.
Pros
- Real-time data capture and analytics from shop floor equipment for instant project insights
- Scalable cloud architecture that grows with manufacturing operations
- Deep integration with IIoT devices, PLCs, and other enterprise systems
Cons
- High implementation costs and time for full deployment
- Pricing model can be expensive for small-scale manufacturers
- Customization options are somewhat limited compared to traditional ERP systems
Best For
Mid-to-large manufacturers managing complex, high-volume production projects requiring end-to-end visibility and automation.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $175 per machine/month with additional fees for modules and users; scales with production volume.
Oracle NetSuite
enterpriseCloud ERP solution with manufacturing edition for project management, inventory control, and production planning integration.
Integrated SuiteProjects with manufacturing-specific MRP and demand planning for unified project-to-production visibility
Oracle NetSuite is a comprehensive cloud-based ERP platform with dedicated modules for manufacturing and project management, enabling end-to-end oversight of production projects from planning and scheduling to execution and financial tracking. It integrates demand planning, work orders, inventory management, and resource allocation to streamline manufacturing workflows. Real-time dashboards and analytics provide visibility into project status, costs, and supply chain dynamics, making it suitable for complex operations.
Pros
- Seamless integration of manufacturing, projects, and financials in one platform
- Advanced MRP, production scheduling, and real-time analytics
- Highly scalable for enterprise-level manufacturing operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex setup requiring customization
- High implementation costs and ongoing fees
- Overkill for small-scale manufacturing projects
Best For
Mid-to-large manufacturing enterprises needing integrated ERP-driven project management for complex production environments.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically starts at $10,000-$25,000 annually for base subscription plus $99-$199 per user/month, with implementation often exceeding $50,000.
MRPeasy
specializedCloud MRP software focused on production planning, scheduling, and project management for small to medium manufacturers.
Infinite BOM nesting and dynamic rescheduling for handling complex assemblies and production changes
MRPeasy is a cloud-based MRP/ERP software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers, offering end-to-end management of production planning, inventory, purchasing, and sales. It provides real-time shop floor control, bill of materials (BOM) handling with infinite nesting, and automated scheduling to streamline manufacturing workflows. The platform integrates CRM and financial reporting, making it a comprehensive solution for discrete and make-to-order production environments.
Pros
- Robust production scheduling with Gantt charts and capacity planning
- Real-time inventory tracking and multi-warehouse support
- Intuitive interface with mobile app for shop floor data entry
Cons
- Limited advanced customization for complex enterprises
- Integrations with third-party tools are functional but not extensive
- Reporting lacks deep ad-hoc analytics without add-ons
Best For
Small to medium-sized manufacturers seeking an affordable, all-in-one MRP system for production planning and inventory control.
Pricing
Starts at $49/user/month (Gold plan, min 10 users), with Production ($79/user/month) and Business ($99/user/month) tiers; custom enterprise pricing available, billed annually.
Odoo
enterpriseModular open-source ERP with manufacturing and project management apps for streamlined operations and custom workflows.
Seamless integration of MRP production orders with project tasks and Gantt views for end-to-end manufacturing project visibility
Odoo is an open-source ERP platform with integrated modules for manufacturing resource planning (MRP) and project management, allowing users to oversee production workflows, track tasks, manage resources, and monitor project progress in real-time. It supports features like production orders, work centers, quality checks, and Gantt charts, enabling seamless coordination between manufacturing operations and project timelines. As a modular system, it scales from small shops to enterprises by combining inventory, PLM, and project tools into a unified dashboard.
Pros
- Highly modular and customizable with strong MRP integration for production planning
- Excellent value through free Community edition and scalable Enterprise options
- Real-time traceability from projects to manufacturing execution
Cons
- Steep learning curve for setup and full customization
- Performance can lag with very large datasets or complex configurations
- Some advanced manufacturing features require Enterprise edition
Best For
Small to mid-sized manufacturers seeking an affordable, all-in-one ERP for integrating project management with production processes.
Pricing
Free Community edition; Enterprise starts at $24.90/user/month (billed annually) with additional hosting and app-based costs.
Katana MRP
specializedReal-time visual MRP tool for inventory tracking, production scheduling, and project oversight in small manufacturers.
Visual Production Scheduler that dynamically plans and adjusts manufacturing runs based on real-time inventory, capacity, and demand.
Katana MRP is a cloud-based manufacturing resource planning (MRP) software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers, focusing on real-time inventory management, production planning, and order fulfillment. It provides visual tools for scheduling production runs, tracking materials across multiple locations, and automating purchase orders based on demand. The platform integrates with e-commerce, accounting, and sales tools to create a seamless workflow from quote to delivery.
Pros
- Intuitive visual production planner with drag-and-drop scheduling
- Real-time inventory tracking and multi-location support
- Seamless integrations with QuickBooks, Shopify, and Xero
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly with order volume, potentially costly for high-volume users
- Limited advanced reporting and custom analytics compared to enterprise solutions
- Less suited for highly complex engineer-to-order manufacturing
Best For
Small to medium manufacturers seeking an user-friendly MRP tool for inventory and production management without deep ERP complexity.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Maker plan, up to 100 orders/month), scales to $299/month (Manufacturer, 500 orders) and higher tiers based on volume; annual discounts available.
JobBOSS²
specializedShop floor management software with quoting, scheduling, and project tracking for job shops and contract manufacturers.
Advanced real-time job traveler and digital shop packet for seamless production handoffs
JobBOSS² is a robust ERP software tailored for job shops and make-to-order manufacturers, offering end-to-end management from quoting and order processing to production scheduling, inventory control, and financials. It provides real-time shop floor visibility, job costing, and quality management tools to optimize operations and profitability. Designed primarily for small to mid-sized custom fabricators, it integrates CRM, purchasing, and accounting into a single platform.
Pros
- Comprehensive job tracking and costing for precise profitability analysis
- Integrated ERP modules covering quoting, scheduling, inventory, and accounting
- Strong support for custom manufacturing workflows with shop floor data capture
Cons
- Dated user interface that feels clunky compared to modern SaaS tools
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training for full utilization
- Custom pricing and implementation can be expensive for smaller shops
Best For
Small to mid-sized job shops and custom manufacturers needing an all-in-one ERP for complex order fulfillment.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting around $150/user/month, with setup fees from $5,000+ depending on modules and customization.
Fishbowl
specializedInventory and manufacturing management software integrating with QuickBooks for order fulfillment and project tracking.
Native, bidirectional QuickBooks synchronization that automatically updates inventory quantities, costs, and sales orders in real-time
Fishbowl is a comprehensive inventory management software designed primarily for small to mid-sized businesses, with strong QuickBooks integration and features tailored for warehouse operations and light manufacturing. It supports bills of materials (BOMs), work orders, assemblies, and basic production tracking, enabling manufacturers to manage inventory alongside simple production processes. While it excels in inventory control, its project management capabilities are limited to basic scheduling and tracking rather than advanced tools like Gantt charts or resource allocation.
Pros
- Seamless, real-time integration with QuickBooks eliminates double data entry
- Robust multi-location inventory tracking and barcode scanning for efficient warehouse management
- Solid light manufacturing tools including BOMs, work orders, and lot/serial tracking
Cons
- Lacks advanced project management features like Gantt charts, critical path analysis, or detailed resource planning
- User interface feels dated and has a steeper learning curve for non-accounting users
- Limited native reporting and customization compared to dedicated manufacturing ERPs
Best For
Small to mid-sized manufacturers relying on QuickBooks who need integrated inventory and basic production management without complex project oversight.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $4,395 for Fishbowl Warehouse (single user), plus ~20% annual maintenance; subscription options from $169/month; scales with users/locations.
Prodsmart
specializedReal-time shop floor control software for production monitoring, scheduling, and performance-based project management.
QR code-based paperless workflows for instant operation tracking and traceability
Prodsmart is a cloud-based Manufacturing Execution System (MES) that delivers real-time visibility into shop floor operations for manufacturers. It streamlines production scheduling, tracks Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), manages inventory, and ensures quality control through digital workflows and mobile apps. The platform eliminates paper-based processes, enabling data-driven decisions to boost efficiency and reduce waste.
Pros
- Real-time production monitoring and OEE dashboards
- Mobile-first interface for shop floor workers
- Seamless ERP integrations for end-to-end visibility
Cons
- Limited advanced Gantt-style project planning tools
- Pricing can be steep for very small operations
- Customization options are somewhat restricted
Best For
Small to mid-sized manufacturers seeking real-time shop floor control and digital transformation without complex setups.
Pricing
Custom pricing starting around $300/month, based on users and modules; free trial available.
ERPNext
otherOpen-source ERP system with manufacturing modules for project planning, BOM management, and production workflows.
Integrated multi-level BOM and shop floor execution tied directly to project timelines and resource management
ERPNext is an open-source ERP platform with dedicated modules for manufacturing and project management, enabling production planning, bill of materials (BOM) management, work orders, and quality control. Its project tools include task tracking, Gantt charts, timesheets, and resource allocation, all integrated seamlessly with inventory and CRM. This makes it suitable for manufacturers handling end-to-end production projects within a unified system.
Pros
- Open-source and free core version reduces costs significantly
- Strong integration of manufacturing and project modules
- Highly customizable with low-code tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- Performance can lag at enterprise scale without optimization
- Limited out-of-box advanced analytics for projects
Best For
Small to mid-sized manufacturing businesses needing an affordable, integrated ERP for production planning and project tracking.
Pricing
Free open-source self-hosted; Frappe Cloud hosting starts at $10/user/month with tiered plans up to enterprise levels.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools present robust solutions for manufacturing project management, with Epicor Kinetic leading as the top choice, excelling in comprehensive ERP integration, production scheduling, and resource planning tailored to diverse operations. Plex and Oracle NetSuite follow closely as strong alternatives, each standing out for real-time visibility and end-to-end workflow management, catering to distinct business needs. Together, they highlight the spectrum of capabilities to streamline manufacturing processes, enhance efficiency, and drive project success.
For those seeking to optimize their manufacturing projects, Epicor Kinetic emerges as the standout pick—explore its tailored features to elevate efficiency and project outcomes.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison