Quick Overview
- 1#1: Plex - Cloud-native smart manufacturing platform offering real-time visibility into production, inventory, and quality tracking.
- 2#2: Epicor Kinetic - Integrated ERP system providing comprehensive manufacturing execution, scheduling, and traceability features.
- 3#3: MRPeasy - Cloud-based MRP software for production planning, inventory management, and real-time shop floor tracking.
- 4#4: Katana - Visual manufacturing platform for real-time inventory control, production scheduling, and order tracking.
- 5#5: Fishbowl - Advanced inventory management solution with built-in manufacturing, assembly, and multi-location tracking.
- 6#6: Prodsmart - Real-time shop floor execution system for tracking production, labor, and materials on mobile devices.
- 7#7: DELMIAworks - All-in-one ERP and MES platform for precise manufacturing tracking, quality control, and supply chain management.
- 8#8: SYSPRO - Flexible ERP software with robust tools for manufacturing operations, inventory, and performance tracking.
- 9#9: Global Shop Solutions - ERP system optimized for job shops with advanced scheduling, quoting, and production tracking capabilities.
- 10#10: E2 Shop System - Shop floor management software for job shops handling quoting, nesting, scheduling, and tracking.
The tools were selected based on key metrics including robust feature sets (such as real-time visibility and traceability), platform reliability, user-friendly design, and overall value, ensuring they deliver exceptional performance and meet diverse operational demands.
Comparison Table
Manufacturing tracking software is essential for optimizing production and inventory management, with tools like Plex, Epicor Kinetic, MRPeasy, Katana, and Fishbowl playing key roles. This comparison table outlines their core features, use cases, and strengths to help readers compare options effectively. Readers will gain insights into scalability, integration capabilities, and user experience to select the best fit for their operational needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Plex Cloud-native smart manufacturing platform offering real-time visibility into production, inventory, and quality tracking. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 2 | Epicor Kinetic Integrated ERP system providing comprehensive manufacturing execution, scheduling, and traceability features. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.7/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | MRPeasy Cloud-based MRP software for production planning, inventory management, and real-time shop floor tracking. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 4 | Katana Visual manufacturing platform for real-time inventory control, production scheduling, and order tracking. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 5 | Fishbowl Advanced inventory management solution with built-in manufacturing, assembly, and multi-location tracking. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Prodsmart Real-time shop floor execution system for tracking production, labor, and materials on mobile devices. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 7 | DELMIAworks All-in-one ERP and MES platform for precise manufacturing tracking, quality control, and supply chain management. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.3/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | SYSPRO Flexible ERP software with robust tools for manufacturing operations, inventory, and performance tracking. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | Global Shop Solutions ERP system optimized for job shops with advanced scheduling, quoting, and production tracking capabilities. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | E2 Shop System Shop floor management software for job shops handling quoting, nesting, scheduling, and tracking. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.9/10 |
Cloud-native smart manufacturing platform offering real-time visibility into production, inventory, and quality tracking.
Integrated ERP system providing comprehensive manufacturing execution, scheduling, and traceability features.
Cloud-based MRP software for production planning, inventory management, and real-time shop floor tracking.
Visual manufacturing platform for real-time inventory control, production scheduling, and order tracking.
Advanced inventory management solution with built-in manufacturing, assembly, and multi-location tracking.
Real-time shop floor execution system for tracking production, labor, and materials on mobile devices.
All-in-one ERP and MES platform for precise manufacturing tracking, quality control, and supply chain management.
Flexible ERP software with robust tools for manufacturing operations, inventory, and performance tracking.
ERP system optimized for job shops with advanced scheduling, quoting, and production tracking capabilities.
Shop floor management software for job shops handling quoting, nesting, scheduling, and tracking.
Plex
enterpriseCloud-native smart manufacturing platform offering real-time visibility into production, inventory, and quality tracking.
Real-Time Track & Trace, providing serialized visibility from raw materials through production to delivery with full audit trails.
Plex is a cloud-native smart manufacturing platform that serves as a comprehensive MES and ERP solution, offering real-time tracking of production processes, inventory, quality control, and supply chain operations. It integrates IoT devices and machine data for end-to-end visibility across plants, enabling manufacturers to monitor performance metrics, reduce downtime, and ensure compliance. With modular functionality, Plex scales from mid-sized to enterprise-level operations, focusing on data-driven decision-making to optimize efficiency and traceability.
Pros
- Exceptional real-time production monitoring and analytics
- Seamless integration with shop floor equipment and ERP systems
- Robust traceability and compliance tools for regulated industries
Cons
- Initial setup and customization can be complex for non-technical teams
- Pricing scales with usage, potentially expensive for very small operations
- Limited offline capabilities due to cloud dependency
Best For
Mid-to-large manufacturers in automotive, aerospace, food & beverage, or electronics seeking scalable, real-time manufacturing tracking and optimization.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting around $1,000/month for basic setups, scaling with users, plants, and modules; free trial available.
Epicor Kinetic
enterpriseIntegrated ERP system providing comprehensive manufacturing execution, scheduling, and traceability features.
Epicor Connected Process Control (ECPC) for paperless, real-time digital work instructions and shop floor execution directly on devices.
Epicor Kinetic is a comprehensive cloud-based ERP platform tailored for manufacturing, featuring advanced Manufacturing Execution System (MES) capabilities for real-time production tracking. It enables monitoring of shop floor operations, work orders, inventory movements, quality checks, and machine performance through intuitive dashboards and mobile access. The software integrates IoT data and analytics to provide actionable insights, helping manufacturers optimize efficiency and reduce downtime.
Pros
- Real-time visibility into production processes and IoT integration for precise tracking
- Highly customizable MES modules supporting complex manufacturing workflows
- Robust analytics and reporting for data-driven decision-making
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup requiring expert implementation
- High cost, especially for smaller manufacturers
- Customization can lead to longer deployment times
Best For
Mid-to-large manufacturers needing an integrated ERP with advanced MES for end-to-end production tracking and scalability.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription pricing, typically starting at $150-$300 per user/month, with annual costs from $100K+ depending on modules, users, and deployment scale.
MRPeasy
specializedCloud-based MRP software for production planning, inventory management, and real-time shop floor tracking.
Dynamic Gantt chart production scheduler that auto-adjusts for delays and capacity constraints
MRPeasy is a cloud-based MRP/ERP software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers, offering comprehensive tools for production planning, inventory tracking, and shop floor management. It enables real-time monitoring of manufacturing processes, from BOM creation and scheduling to order fulfillment and quality control. The platform integrates CRM, purchasing, and basic accounting to streamline end-to-end operations without the complexity of enterprise systems.
Pros
- Robust production scheduling with visual Gantt charts and capacity planning
- Real-time inventory and shop floor tracking via mobile app
- All-in-one MRP solution covering planning, execution, and reporting
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics and custom reporting options
- Pricing scales per user, which can add up for larger teams
- Some customization requires support assistance
Best For
Small to medium manufacturers needing intuitive, real-time tracking for make-to-order or make-to-stock production.
Pricing
Tiered plans starting at $49/user/month (Basic), $59 (Production), $79 (Full), billed annually with a free trial.
Katana
specializedVisual manufacturing platform for real-time inventory control, production scheduling, and order tracking.
Dynamic visual planning board that auto-generates production and purchase orders based on real-time demand and inventory levels
Katana is a cloud-based manufacturing ERP and MRP software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers, offering real-time inventory tracking, production planning, and order management. It enables users to monitor stock levels across multiple locations, schedule production with a visual planning board, and automate material requirements planning to streamline operations. The platform integrates seamlessly with e-commerce, accounting tools like QuickBooks, and shop floor devices for end-to-end visibility.
Pros
- Real-time inventory tracking with multi-location support and traceability
- Visual production scheduling board for intuitive planning
- Robust integrations with e-commerce and accounting software
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers can be costly for very small operations
- Limited built-in advanced reporting and analytics
- Occasional complexity with highly nested BOMs
Best For
Small to medium-sized make-to-order or make-to-stock manufacturers needing real-time production and inventory control without heavy IT setup.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Essentials, billed annually) up to $799+/month for Enterprise, with a free trial available.
Fishbowl
specializedAdvanced inventory management solution with built-in manufacturing, assembly, and multi-location tracking.
Unrivaled real-time bidirectional integration with QuickBooks for inventory and manufacturing data syncing
Fishbowl is a robust inventory management software tailored for small to mid-sized manufacturers and distributors, offering comprehensive tracking of inventory, orders, and production processes. It supports bill of materials (BOM), work orders, material requirements planning (MRP), and multi-location inventory control, with seamless integration to QuickBooks for accounting. Primarily an on-premise solution with cloud options, it helps streamline manufacturing workflows from raw materials to finished goods.
Pros
- Seamless QuickBooks integration eliminates double data entry
- Advanced manufacturing tools like BOM, MRP, and work order tracking
- Strong multi-location inventory and lot/serial number support
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring training for full utilization
- Primarily on-premise with limited native cloud functionality
- Pricing can be high for very small operations without scalability discounts
Best For
Small to mid-sized manufacturers using QuickBooks who need detailed inventory and production tracking without changing their accounting system.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $4,395 for standard edition (single company), plus ~20% annual maintenance; scales up for users/locations; cloud subscription options from ~$150/user/month.
Prodsmart
specializedReal-time shop floor execution system for tracking production, labor, and materials on mobile devices.
Mobile operator app with barcode scanning and geofencing for instant, accurate real-time data capture
Prodsmart is a cloud-based Manufacturing Execution System (MES) designed for real-time shop floor tracking and production management. It offers tools for OEE monitoring, quality control, inventory tracking, and operator performance via a mobile-first app that uses barcode scanning and geolocation. The platform helps manufacturers digitize operations, reduce downtime, and improve efficiency without needing complex hardware installations.
Pros
- Real-time visibility and OEE tracking with intuitive mobile app
- Quick setup with minimal hardware requirements
- Strong focus on operator engagement and paperless workflows
Cons
- Limited advanced ERP integrations compared to enterprise solutions
- Customization options can be restrictive for complex needs
- Pricing scales quickly with number of machines/users
Best For
Small to medium-sized manufacturers seeking an affordable, mobile-driven solution for shop floor tracking and OEE improvement.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; starts around $500/month for small setups, scales per machine or user.
DELMIAworks
enterpriseAll-in-one ERP and MES platform for precise manufacturing tracking, quality control, and supply chain management.
Real-time shop floor data capture and advanced genealogy for full product lifecycle traceability
DELMIAworks is a comprehensive ERP and MES platform tailored for manufacturers, offering real-time production tracking, inventory management, and quality control across discrete, process, and mixed-mode operations. It integrates shop floor data with enterprise functions like scheduling, supply chain, and compliance reporting for end-to-end visibility. Originally from IQMS and now under Dassault Systèmes, it supports scalability from mid-sized to large enterprises with robust customization options.
Pros
- Deep integration of ERP and MES for real-time manufacturing insights
- Strong traceability and quality management tools
- Highly customizable for specific industry needs
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation
- Higher pricing suitable only for larger operations
- Interface feels dated compared to modern SaaS alternatives
Best For
Mid-to-large manufacturers seeking an integrated ERP/MES solution for precise production tracking and compliance.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing; cloud starts around $150-300/user/month, on-premise from $100K+ annually depending on modules and scale.
SYSPRO
enterpriseFlexible ERP software with robust tools for manufacturing operations, inventory, and performance tracking.
Advanced Shop Floor Data Collection with real-time IoT integration for precise labor, machine, and material tracking
SYSPRO is a robust ERP system designed for manufacturing and distribution companies, offering advanced manufacturing tracking through modules like Shop Floor Control, Production Management, and Inventory Optimization. It provides real-time visibility into production processes, work orders, material usage, and shop floor activities, enabling precise tracking from raw materials to finished goods. The software supports traceability, compliance reporting, and integration with IoT devices for data collection, making it suitable for complex manufacturing environments.
Pros
- Comprehensive manufacturing modules with real-time tracking and traceability
- Highly customizable workflows and reporting
- Strong integration capabilities with shop floor devices and other ERPs
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- Higher implementation costs and time
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-native tools
Best For
Mid-sized to large manufacturers requiring an integrated ERP with detailed production tracking and compliance features.
Pricing
Quote-based; perpetual licenses or cloud subscriptions typically $200-500 per user/month depending on modules and deployment.
Global Shop Solutions
enterpriseERP system optimized for job shops with advanced scheduling, quoting, and production tracking capabilities.
OpCenter: Real-time visual shop floor dashboard for drag-and-drop scheduling and instant production monitoring
Global Shop Solutions is a comprehensive ERP and MES software designed for job shops and discrete manufacturers, providing real-time tracking of production processes, inventory, and shop floor activities. It integrates scheduling, quoting, order management, quality control, and financials into a single platform for end-to-end manufacturing visibility. The system excels in capturing live data from machines and operators via terminals, enabling precise job tracking and capacity planning.
Pros
- Robust real-time shop floor tracking and data collection
- Advanced visual scheduling with drag-and-drop interface
- Highly customizable for complex job shop environments
Cons
- Steep learning curve and lengthy implementation
- High upfront costs and customization expenses
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-native tools
Best For
Mid-sized job shops and contract manufacturers needing integrated ERP with strong production tracking.
Pricing
Quote-based; perpetual licenses or subscriptions start at ~$1,000/user plus $50,000+ implementation fees.
E2 Shop System
specializedShop floor management software for job shops handling quoting, nesting, scheduling, and tracking.
E2 START wireless shop floor terminals for hands-free, real-time data capture and production monitoring
E2 Shop System by ShopTech is a robust on-premise ERP/MRP solution tailored for job shops and make-to-order manufacturers, excelling in real-time shop floor tracking and production control. It provides comprehensive tools for job scheduling, dispatching, labor tracking, and material management to streamline manufacturing operations. The software integrates seamlessly with quoting, inventory, and accounting functions, enabling precise job costing and operational visibility.
Pros
- Superior real-time shop floor data collection and tracking via barcode and wireless terminals
- Detailed job costing and scheduling for complex make-to-order environments
- Modular design allows customization and scalability for growing job shops
Cons
- On-premise deployment requires significant IT setup and maintenance
- Dated Windows-based interface with a steeper learning curve
- Higher upfront costs and less flexibility compared to cloud-native alternatives
Best For
Mid-sized job shops and contract manufacturers seeking in-depth shop floor visibility and control without cloud dependencies.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing starts around $10,000-$20,000 for base license plus per-user modules and annual maintenance fees of 15-20%.
Conclusion
The top manufacturing tracking tools stand out, with Plex leading as the top choice, offering exceptional real-time visibility into production, inventory, and quality. Epicor Kinetic and MRPeasy follow closely, each excelling in integrated execution and planning, making them strong alternatives for varied operational needs. The list, spanning from end-to-end ERP to mobile shop floor management, ensures every manufacturing setup finds its ideal fit.
Begin your journey to smarter operations by exploring Plex—where real-time visibility and streamlined processes meet to enhance efficiency.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison