Quick Overview
- 1#1: Plex - Cloud-based manufacturing ERP platform that automates work order creation, execution, tracking, and integration with inventory and quality control.
- 2#2: Epicor Kinetic - Comprehensive ERP system for manufacturers that manages end-to-end work orders, production scheduling, MES functions, and supply chain operations.
- 3#3: MRPeasy - Cloud MRP software tailored for small manufacturers to streamline work order planning, production tracking, and material requirements.
- 4#4: Katana MRP - Visual real-time MRP platform for creating, assigning, and monitoring manufacturing work orders with live inventory insights.
- 5#5: Fishbowl - Inventory and manufacturing management tool that handles work orders, bill of materials, and order fulfillment for growing businesses.
- 6#6: Prodsmart - Real-time shop floor execution software for digitizing work orders, tracking production progress, and improving operational efficiency.
- 7#7: JobBOSS² - Shop management software for job shops and custom manufacturers to quote, schedule, and track work orders seamlessly.
- 8#8: Global Shop Solutions - ERP platform designed for make-to-order shops, optimizing work order management, capacity planning, and job costing.
- 9#9: DELMIAworks - Integrated ERP/MES solution for discrete and process manufacturers to control work orders, quality, and real-time shop floor data.
- 10#10: SYSPRO - Flexible ERP system with advanced work order processing, inventory control, and production management for mid-sized manufacturers.
Tools were evaluated based on features (including automation, integration, and real-time tracking), user experience, reliability, and value, with a focus on meeting the unique needs of discrete, process, and job shop manufacturers.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines key Manufacturing Work Order Software tools, including Plex, Epicor Kinetic, MRPeasy, Katana MRP, Fishbowl, and more, highlighting their core features, functionality, and suitability for various manufacturing operations. Readers will gain insights into how these solutions streamline work order management, from task tracking to resource coordination, to identify the best fit for their specific needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Plex Cloud-based manufacturing ERP platform that automates work order creation, execution, tracking, and integration with inventory and quality control. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | Epicor Kinetic Comprehensive ERP system for manufacturers that manages end-to-end work orders, production scheduling, MES functions, and supply chain operations. | enterprise | 8.9/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 3 | MRPeasy Cloud MRP software tailored for small manufacturers to streamline work order planning, production tracking, and material requirements. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 4 | Katana MRP Visual real-time MRP platform for creating, assigning, and monitoring manufacturing work orders with live inventory insights. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 5 | Fishbowl Inventory and manufacturing management tool that handles work orders, bill of materials, and order fulfillment for growing businesses. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 6 | Prodsmart Real-time shop floor execution software for digitizing work orders, tracking production progress, and improving operational efficiency. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | JobBOSS² Shop management software for job shops and custom manufacturers to quote, schedule, and track work orders seamlessly. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 6.7/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 8 | Global Shop Solutions ERP platform designed for make-to-order shops, optimizing work order management, capacity planning, and job costing. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 9 | DELMIAworks Integrated ERP/MES solution for discrete and process manufacturers to control work orders, quality, and real-time shop floor data. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | SYSPRO Flexible ERP system with advanced work order processing, inventory control, and production management for mid-sized manufacturers. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 6.7/10 | 7.2/10 |
Cloud-based manufacturing ERP platform that automates work order creation, execution, tracking, and integration with inventory and quality control.
Comprehensive ERP system for manufacturers that manages end-to-end work orders, production scheduling, MES functions, and supply chain operations.
Cloud MRP software tailored for small manufacturers to streamline work order planning, production tracking, and material requirements.
Visual real-time MRP platform for creating, assigning, and monitoring manufacturing work orders with live inventory insights.
Inventory and manufacturing management tool that handles work orders, bill of materials, and order fulfillment for growing businesses.
Real-time shop floor execution software for digitizing work orders, tracking production progress, and improving operational efficiency.
Shop management software for job shops and custom manufacturers to quote, schedule, and track work orders seamlessly.
ERP platform designed for make-to-order shops, optimizing work order management, capacity planning, and job costing.
Integrated ERP/MES solution for discrete and process manufacturers to control work orders, quality, and real-time shop floor data.
Flexible ERP system with advanced work order processing, inventory control, and production management for mid-sized manufacturers.
Plex
enterpriseCloud-based manufacturing ERP platform that automates work order creation, execution, tracking, and integration with inventory and quality control.
Real-time IIoT integration for automatic work order status updates directly from shop floor machines
Plex is a comprehensive cloud-based MES and ERP platform tailored for manufacturers, excelling in work order management by enabling real-time creation, scheduling, dispatching, and tracking of production orders across the shop floor. It integrates seamlessly with machine monitoring, inventory control, and quality management to ensure efficient execution and traceability. With advanced automation features like electronic routings and labor tracking, Plex minimizes downtime and optimizes manufacturing workflows.
Pros
- Real-time shop floor visibility and automated work order dispatching
- Deep integration with ERP, quality, and supply chain modules
- Scalable for high-volume discrete manufacturing with IoT machine connectivity
- Robust traceability and compliance tools for regulated industries
Cons
- Steep initial learning curve for complex implementations
- Pricing can be high for small manufacturers
- Customization may require professional services
Best For
Mid-to-large discrete manufacturers seeking an all-in-one MES for end-to-end work order orchestration and real-time production control.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting at around $5,000/month for mid-sized operations, scaling with users, modules, and production volume.
Epicor Kinetic
enterpriseComprehensive ERP system for manufacturers that manages end-to-end work orders, production scheduling, MES functions, and supply chain operations.
Embedded Advanced MES with real-time IoT data capture and machine monitoring
Epicor Kinetic is a cloud-based ERP platform tailored for manufacturing, offering comprehensive work order management that covers creation, scheduling, execution, and tracking across discrete, process, and mixed-mode environments. It integrates work orders with inventory, procurement, quality control, and MES functionalities for end-to-end visibility. Advanced analytics and real-time data provide insights to optimize production efficiency and reduce downtime.
Pros
- Robust scheduling and capacity planning tools with drag-and-drop interface
- Seamless integration with MES and IoT for real-time shop floor monitoring
- Highly customizable with low-code tools for industry-specific needs
Cons
- Complex initial setup requiring professional services
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Premium pricing may not suit small manufacturers
Best For
Mid-to-large manufacturers needing scalable, integrated ERP for complex work order processes in discrete or mixed-mode production.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at $175/user/month; custom quotes for full ERP modules and enterprise scale.
MRPeasy
specializedCloud MRP software tailored for small manufacturers to streamline work order planning, production tracking, and material requirements.
Visual Gantt-based infinite scheduler that automatically reschedules production based on capacity, materials, and priorities in real-time
MRPeasy is a cloud-based MRP/ERP software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers, focusing on streamlining work order creation, production scheduling, and inventory management. It provides tools for multi-level BOMs, material requirements planning, shop floor execution, and real-time tracking to ensure efficient manufacturing operations. The platform integrates CRM, procurement, and reporting for end-to-end visibility without the complexity of enterprise systems.
Pros
- Powerful MRP and automatic scheduling for complex production planning
- Real-time inventory and shop floor tracking with mobile access
- Affordable all-in-one solution with strong reporting and analytics
Cons
- Limited advanced customization options
- Customer support can be slower for non-premium users
- Scaling pricing based on production volume may increase costs for growth
Best For
Small to medium manufacturers handling make-to-order or engineer-to-order production who need robust MRP without enterprise-level complexity.
Pricing
Starts at €49/user/month for basic plans (Gold tier up to 1,000 orders/month); scales to higher tiers (up to €1,499/month for Platinum) based on production volume, with a free tier for very small operations.
Katana MRP
specializedVisual real-time MRP platform for creating, assigning, and monitoring manufacturing work orders with live inventory insights.
Live MRP Engine providing automatic, real-time generation of manufacturing and purchase orders based on sales demand.
Katana MRP is a cloud-based manufacturing resource planning software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers, focusing on real-time inventory management, work order creation, and production scheduling. It enables users to track manufacturing orders via an intuitive drag-and-drop planning board, manage bills of materials (BOMs), automate purchase orders, and maintain visibility across multiple warehouse locations. The platform integrates seamlessly with e-commerce tools like Shopify and accounting software such as QuickBooks, making it ideal for order-driven production workflows.
Pros
- Real-time inventory tracking across multiple locations
- Intuitive drag-and-drop production planning board
- Seamless integrations with e-commerce and accounting platforms
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly for higher volumes
- Limited advanced reporting and analytics
- Less suited for complex process manufacturing
Best For
Small to medium-sized discrete manufacturers with e-commerce sales needing real-time work order and inventory synchronization.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Maker plan, up to 100 orders), $299/month (Manufacturer plan), custom Enterprise pricing; annual billing discounts available.
Fishbowl
specializedInventory and manufacturing management tool that handles work orders, bill of materials, and order fulfillment for growing businesses.
Native, two-way QuickBooks integration that automatically syncs inventory, sales orders, and manufacturing data
Fishbowl Inventory is a robust warehouse management and inventory control software with strong manufacturing capabilities, enabling users to create and track work orders, manage bills of materials (BOMs), and handle assemblies and production scheduling. It integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks for accounting synchronization, making it ideal for small to mid-sized manufacturers. The platform supports multi-location inventory, serial/lot tracking, and order fulfillment, providing end-to-end visibility into manufacturing operations.
Pros
- Seamless QuickBooks integration for real-time accounting sync
- Comprehensive work order management with BOM support and production tracking
- Strong inventory control features including multi-location and lot/serial tracking
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Limited advanced MRP/ERP functionalities like demand forecasting
- Upfront licensing cost can be prohibitive for very small operations
Best For
Small to mid-sized manufacturers already using QuickBooks who need affordable inventory and work order management without a full-scale ERP.
Pricing
One-time license starting at $4,395 for standard edition, plus annual maintenance fees around 20% of license cost; subscription options available.
Prodsmart
specializedReal-time shop floor execution software for digitizing work orders, tracking production progress, and improving operational efficiency.
Frictionless real-time data collection using standard mobile devices and QR codes, eliminating the need for expensive sensors or hardware.
Prodsmart is a cloud-based Manufacturing Execution System (MES) designed for real-time shop floor management and work order execution in discrete manufacturing environments. It enables paperless operations through mobile apps for operators, capturing production data, material usage, and quality metrics instantly without specialized hardware. Key functionalities include work order dispatching, progress tracking, OEE calculations, downtime analysis, and ERP integrations for seamless workflow automation.
Pros
- Real-time visibility into production with intuitive dashboards and mobile apps
- Paperless work orders and easy data capture via QR codes and tablets
- Strong OEE, downtime, and quality analytics for process improvements
Cons
- Pricing is quote-based and can be high for very small operations
- Customization for complex workflows often requires professional services
- Best suited for discrete manufacturing, less ideal for process or highly custom industries
Best For
Small to medium-sized discrete manufacturers seeking quick-deployment, real-time shop floor digitization without hardware investments.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $500-$1,000/month depending on users, modules, and shop floor size.
JobBOSS²
enterpriseShop management software for job shops and custom manufacturers to quote, schedule, and track work orders seamlessly.
Integrated quoting engine that automatically generates work orders with precise costing and routing based on customer specs
JobBOSS² is a comprehensive ERP solution tailored for job shops and make-to-order manufacturers, streamlining operations from quoting and order entry through production scheduling, inventory management, and invoicing. It excels in work order tracking with detailed job costing, shop floor control, and material requirements planning (MRP). The software supports custom manufacturing environments by providing tools for routing, labor tracking, and financial reporting to improve efficiency and profitability.
Pros
- End-to-end workflow from quote to invoice with strong job costing
- Robust inventory and MRP tools for make-to-order production
- Highly customizable reports and integrations for shop-specific needs
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex setup process
- Dated user interface that feels outdated compared to modern SaaS tools
- Expensive pricing with additional costs for modules and support
Best For
Small to mid-sized job shops and custom manufacturers needing detailed work order tracking and job costing in complex production environments.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; on-premise starts at $10,000+ with annual maintenance, cloud version around $200-400 per user/month depending on modules.
Global Shop Solutions
enterpriseERP platform designed for make-to-order shops, optimizing work order management, capacity planning, and job costing.
Dispatch List with real-time priority optimization for dynamic shop floor execution
Global Shop Solutions is an ERP platform tailored for job shops and make-to-order manufacturers, excelling in work order management from quoting through production and shipping. It provides real-time shop floor control, advanced scheduling, inventory tracking, and quality management to optimize manufacturing operations. The software integrates MES capabilities for precise work order execution and resource allocation.
Pros
- Comprehensive ERP integration for end-to-end work order lifecycle
- Powerful visual scheduling and capacity planning tools
- Real-time shop floor data collection and dispatching
Cons
- Steep learning curve and lengthy implementation
- Higher upfront costs with customization needs
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-native solutions
Best For
Mid-sized job shops and contract manufacturers needing robust, on-premise ERP for complex work order management.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing with perpetual licenses starting at $40,000-$100,000+ for implementation, plus annual maintenance fees around 15-20% of license cost.
DELMIAworks
enterpriseIntegrated ERP/MES solution for discrete and process manufacturers to control work orders, quality, and real-time shop floor data.
Native ERP-MES integration providing real-time shop floor data capture and automated work order execution without third-party add-ons
DELMIAworks, formerly IQMS, is a comprehensive ERP/MES platform tailored for manufacturing, with robust work order management at its core. It enables the creation, scheduling, routing, and real-time tracking of work orders, integrating seamlessly with inventory, quality control, and supply chain modules. Designed for discrete, repetitive, process, and mixed-mode manufacturers, it provides shop floor visibility and production optimization tools to streamline operations and reduce downtime.
Pros
- Fully integrated ERP and MES for end-to-end visibility
- Strong real-time production monitoring and scheduling
- Highly customizable for specific manufacturing industries like plastics and medical devices
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features
- Pricing can be high for smaller operations
- Implementation may require significant setup time
Best For
Mid-sized to large manufacturers needing an all-in-one ERP/MES solution with advanced work order and shop floor control.
Pricing
Custom quote required; subscription starts at around $5,000/month for mid-tier deployments, with on-premise options also available.
SYSPRO
enterpriseFlexible ERP system with advanced work order processing, inventory control, and production management for mid-sized manufacturers.
Advanced Inventory Optimization and MRP II capabilities that provide precise material requirements planning and finite capacity scheduling directly tied to work orders
SYSPRO is a comprehensive ERP system designed for manufacturing and distribution companies, with robust modules for managing work orders from creation through completion. It supports detailed bill of materials, routing, scheduling, and costing, integrating seamlessly with inventory, purchasing, and financials for end-to-end visibility. Advanced features like MRP, CRP, and shop floor control help optimize production processes in complex manufacturing environments.
Pros
- Deep manufacturing-specific functionality including multi-level BOMs and advanced scheduling
- Highly customizable with low-code tools like SYSPRO Snap
- Strong integration across ERP modules for real-time data accuracy
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and configuration
- Pricing can be high for smaller operations
- On-premise deployment feels dated compared to modern cloud-native solutions
Best For
Mid-sized to large manufacturers handling complex, engineer-to-order or make-to-stock production needing full ERP integration.
Pricing
Custom quotes required; cloud subscriptions typically start at $175-$250/user/month with modular licensing; on-premise involves upfront costs plus annual maintenance.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools offer robust solutions for managing manufacturing work orders, with Plex leading as the top choice due to its seamless automation of creation, execution, tracking, and integration with key systems. Epicor Kinetic stands out for its end-to-end ERP capabilities, while MRPeasy excels as a tailored option for small manufacturers, each proving valuable based on specific operational needs.
Don’t miss out on optimizing your workflow—begin with Plex, the top-ranked tool, to enhance efficiency and streamline your manufacturing processes.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison