Quick Overview
- 1#1: Plex - Cloud-native ERP and MES platform that automates manufacturing workflows, quality control, and supply chain management in real-time.
- 2#2: Epicor Kinetic - Comprehensive ERP solution for managing manufacturing operations, production scheduling, inventory, and shop floor workflows.
- 3#3: MRPeasy - Cloud MRP software designed for small to mid-sized manufacturers to streamline production planning, scheduling, and inventory workflows.
- 4#4: Katana MRP - Real-time MRP tool for tracking manufacturing orders, inventory levels, and production workflows across multiple locations.
- 5#5: DELMIAworks - Integrated ERP and MES system for real-time shop floor management, quoting, scheduling, and quality workflows in manufacturing.
- 6#6: Prodsmart - Cloud-based MES that provides real-time visibility into shop floor operations, production tracking, and workflow optimization.
- 7#7: Fishbowl - Inventory and manufacturing management software with advanced workflow automation for order fulfillment and production.
- 8#8: Infor CloudSuite Industrial - Enterprise platform for industrial manufacturers to manage production workflows, engineer-to-order processes, and supply chain.
- 9#9: Siemens Opcenter - Advanced MES software for detailed production execution, monitoring, and workflow management in complex manufacturing environments.
- 10#10: Oracle Manufacturing Cloud - Cloud SCM solution with manufacturing execution capabilities for planning, scheduling, and controlling production workflows.
Tools were evaluated based on feature depth (e.g., real-time automation, integration capabilities), user experience (ease of use and deployment), and value (scalability, ROI potential), ensuring a ranking that prioritizes both functionality and practicality for diverse manufacturing needs.
Comparison Table
Choosing the right manufacturing workflow management software is critical for operational efficiency; this comparison table breaks down leading tools like Plex, Epicor Kinetic, MRPeasy, Katana MRP, DELMIAworks, and more, helping readers understand key features, integration capabilities, and scalability.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Plex Cloud-native ERP and MES platform that automates manufacturing workflows, quality control, and supply chain management in real-time. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | Epicor Kinetic Comprehensive ERP solution for managing manufacturing operations, production scheduling, inventory, and shop floor workflows. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 3 | MRPeasy Cloud MRP software designed for small to mid-sized manufacturers to streamline production planning, scheduling, and inventory workflows. | specialized | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 4 | Katana MRP Real-time MRP tool for tracking manufacturing orders, inventory levels, and production workflows across multiple locations. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | DELMIAworks Integrated ERP and MES system for real-time shop floor management, quoting, scheduling, and quality workflows in manufacturing. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Prodsmart Cloud-based MES that provides real-time visibility into shop floor operations, production tracking, and workflow optimization. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 7 | Fishbowl Inventory and manufacturing management software with advanced workflow automation for order fulfillment and production. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 8 | Infor CloudSuite Industrial Enterprise platform for industrial manufacturers to manage production workflows, engineer-to-order processes, and supply chain. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 8.9/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Siemens Opcenter Advanced MES software for detailed production execution, monitoring, and workflow management in complex manufacturing environments. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 10 | Oracle Manufacturing Cloud Cloud SCM solution with manufacturing execution capabilities for planning, scheduling, and controlling production workflows. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
Cloud-native ERP and MES platform that automates manufacturing workflows, quality control, and supply chain management in real-time.
Comprehensive ERP solution for managing manufacturing operations, production scheduling, inventory, and shop floor workflows.
Cloud MRP software designed for small to mid-sized manufacturers to streamline production planning, scheduling, and inventory workflows.
Real-time MRP tool for tracking manufacturing orders, inventory levels, and production workflows across multiple locations.
Integrated ERP and MES system for real-time shop floor management, quoting, scheduling, and quality workflows in manufacturing.
Cloud-based MES that provides real-time visibility into shop floor operations, production tracking, and workflow optimization.
Inventory and manufacturing management software with advanced workflow automation for order fulfillment and production.
Enterprise platform for industrial manufacturers to manage production workflows, engineer-to-order processes, and supply chain.
Advanced MES software for detailed production execution, monitoring, and workflow management in complex manufacturing environments.
Cloud SCM solution with manufacturing execution capabilities for planning, scheduling, and controlling production workflows.
Plex
enterpriseCloud-native ERP and MES platform that automates manufacturing workflows, quality control, and supply chain management in real-time.
Seamless IoT connectivity and automatic data collection from machines for true real-time manufacturing intelligence without custom coding
Plex is a comprehensive cloud-native smart manufacturing platform that serves as an ERP/MES solution, streamlining manufacturing workflows from production planning and shop floor execution to quality management, supply chain, and inventory control. It provides real-time visibility and analytics through IoT connectivity, enabling data-driven decisions across the entire operation. Designed for discrete, process, and hybrid manufacturers, Plex eliminates silos by integrating all aspects of manufacturing into a single, scalable system.
Pros
- Real-time shop floor control and IoT machine integration for unparalleled visibility
- Unified ERP/MES/QMS platform reduces data silos and manual processes
- Highly scalable cloud architecture with robust analytics and AI-driven insights
Cons
- Custom pricing can be steep for very small manufacturers
- Initial implementation may require significant setup time
- Advanced customizations often need professional services
Best For
Mid-sized to large manufacturers in discrete or mixed-mode production seeking an all-in-one, real-time workflow management solution.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing based on modules, users, and production volume; typically starts at $1,500/month for basic setups, with enterprise plans quoted individually.
Epicor Kinetic
enterpriseComprehensive ERP solution for managing manufacturing operations, production scheduling, inventory, and shop floor workflows.
Integrated MES within the ERP platform for real-time shop floor execution and traceability without third-party add-ons
Epicor Kinetic is a cloud-native ERP platform tailored for manufacturing, providing comprehensive workflow management from production planning and scheduling to execution, quality management, and supply chain coordination. It integrates MES (Manufacturing Execution System) capabilities for real-time shop floor visibility, inventory tracking, and performance analytics. Designed for discrete, process, and mixed-mode manufacturers, it supports customizable workflows and scalability for growing operations.
Pros
- Robust manufacturing-specific modules including MES, production scheduling, and quality control
- Highly customizable with low-code tools like Aware and Digital Canvas for tailored workflows
- Strong analytics and real-time dashboards for operational insights
Cons
- Complex implementation requiring significant configuration and training
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Premium pricing that may not suit small manufacturers
Best For
Mid-to-large manufacturers with complex, multi-site operations needing integrated ERP and MES for end-to-end workflow control.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription pricing; typically $150-$300 per user/month, with minimum annual commitments starting at $100,000+ depending on modules and deployment scale.
MRPeasy
specializedCloud MRP software designed for small to mid-sized manufacturers to streamline production planning, scheduling, and inventory workflows.
Drag-and-drop visual production scheduling with automatic capacity planning and material requirements calculation
MRPeasy is a cloud-based MRP/ERP software tailored for small to medium-sized discrete manufacturers, focusing on streamlining production workflows from planning to delivery. It offers tools for production scheduling, inventory management, procurement, shop floor tracking, CRM, and basic accounting, providing real-time visibility and control over manufacturing operations. The platform emphasizes ease of use with mobile access and automated processes to reduce manual work.
Pros
- Intuitive interface requiring minimal training
- Comprehensive production scheduling with Gantt charts and real-time shop floor reporting
- Strong integration of MRP, CRM, and inventory tools for end-to-end workflow management
Cons
- Limited advanced customization and API integrations
- Reporting and analytics not as robust as enterprise-level competitors
- Pricing scales quickly for teams over 20 users
Best For
Small to medium-sized make-to-order or engineer-to-order manufacturers seeking an affordable, user-friendly solution for managing complex production workflows.
Pricing
Starts at €49 per user per month (billed annually), with all features included; minimum 5 users, scaling linearly.
Katana MRP
specializedReal-time MRP tool for tracking manufacturing orders, inventory levels, and production workflows across multiple locations.
Dynamic production planning board that auto-adjusts schedules based on live inventory, orders, and material availability
Katana MRP is a cloud-based manufacturing resource planning (MRP) software designed for small to medium-sized manufacturers to manage inventory, production planning, and order fulfillment in real-time. It offers visual tools for shop floor control, automated workflows, and seamless integrations with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and accounting software like QuickBooks. The platform excels in providing actionable insights to streamline manufacturing workflows and reduce stockouts or overproduction.
Pros
- Intuitive visual interface with drag-and-drop production scheduling
- Real-time inventory tracking across multiple locations
- Robust integrations with e-commerce and accounting tools
Cons
- Limited advanced reporting and analytics compared to enterprise solutions
- Pricing can become expensive as operations scale
- Customization options are somewhat restricted for complex workflows
Best For
Small to medium-sized make-to-order or make-to-stock manufacturers seeking an user-friendly MRP without heavy IT overhead.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Essentials plan) up to $799/month (Business plan), with custom Enterprise pricing available.
DELMIAworks
enterpriseIntegrated ERP and MES system for real-time shop floor management, quoting, scheduling, and quality workflows in manufacturing.
Single-database architecture providing seamless real-time integration across ERP, MES, and quality modules without data silos.
DELMIAworks is a robust ERP/MES platform designed for manufacturing operations, integrating production management, inventory control, quality assurance, and supply chain workflows into a single database system. It supports discrete, process, and mixed-mode manufacturing with real-time shop floor visibility, scheduling, and traceability features. Formerly IQMS and now part of Dassault Systèmes, it enables end-to-end workflow automation for mid-sized manufacturers.
Pros
- Comprehensive integration of ERP, MES, and QMS in one platform
- Real-time production monitoring and analytics for optimized workflows
- Highly customizable with strong support for traceability and compliance
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- High implementation costs and time
- Limited flexibility for very small manufacturers
Best For
Mid-sized manufacturers in discrete or mixed-mode environments seeking an all-in-one solution for production workflows and compliance.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing; typically $75,000+ annually for mid-sized deployments, depending on modules and users.
Prodsmart
specializedCloud-based MES that provides real-time visibility into shop floor operations, production tracking, and workflow optimization.
Digital Kanban boards with real-time collaborative updates and QR/Barcode scanning for seamless paperless shop floor execution
Prodsmart is a cloud-based Manufacturing Execution System (MES) that delivers real-time visibility into shop floor operations for discrete manufacturers. It tracks production progress, materials, machine performance, and quality metrics via mobile apps and digital Kanban boards, enabling paperless workflows and lean optimization. The platform calculates OEE, identifies bottlenecks, and supports traceability to reduce waste and improve efficiency.
Pros
- Real-time production tracking and OEE monitoring via intuitive mobile app
- Digital Kanban boards for visual workflow management and paperless operations
- Quick setup with minimal IT requirements, ideal for SMBs
Cons
- Limited advanced customization for complex enterprise needs
- Reporting features could be more flexible and exportable
- Pricing scales up quickly for larger teams
Best For
Small to medium-sized discrete manufacturers seeking rapid deployment of real-time shop floor control without extensive IT infrastructure.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at €75-150 per user/month for core plans, with tiers for advanced features.
Fishbowl
specializedInventory and manufacturing management software with advanced workflow automation for order fulfillment and production.
Deep, native integration with QuickBooks for automatic inventory and order syncing without third-party plugins
Fishbowl is a robust inventory management software tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, with strong manufacturing workflow capabilities including bills of materials (BOM), work orders, production scheduling, and real-time inventory tracking. It excels in streamlining warehouse operations through barcode scanning, cycle counting, and multi-location inventory control, while integrating deeply with QuickBooks for seamless accounting synchronization. The platform supports light manufacturing processes like assemblies and kits, making it suitable for discrete manufacturing environments.
Pros
- Seamless QuickBooks integration for real-time financial syncing
- Comprehensive inventory tools with barcode support and multi-location management
- Solid manufacturing features like BOM and work order management
Cons
- Outdated user interface that feels clunky
- Steep learning curve for setup and advanced features
- Limited scalability for complex enterprise manufacturing workflows
Best For
Small to medium-sized manufacturers relying on QuickBooks who need affordable inventory and light production management.
Pricing
One-time licenses starting at $4,395 for Essential edition (single user), up to $13,995+ for Warehouse edition; annual maintenance ~20% of license cost; subscription plans also available.
Infor CloudSuite Industrial
enterpriseEnterprise platform for industrial manufacturers to manage production workflows, engineer-to-order processes, and supply chain.
Advanced finite capacity scheduling engine that dynamically optimizes manufacturing workflows against real-world constraints
Infor CloudSuite Industrial is a cloud-based ERP solution tailored for industrial machinery and equipment manufacturers, streamlining manufacturing workflows from order management to production execution. It integrates shop floor control, material requirements planning, quality management, and supply chain operations into a unified platform. The software supports complex processes like engineer-to-order and configure-to-order manufacturing with real-time visibility and automation.
Pros
- Deep industry-specific tools for discrete manufacturing workflows
- Seamless integration via Infor ION for multi-system connectivity
- Real-time shop floor tracking and analytics for optimized execution
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- High implementation costs and long deployment times
- Less intuitive interface compared to modern SaaS alternatives
Best For
Mid-to-large industrial manufacturers managing complex engineer-to-order or mixed-mode production workflows.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing, typically starting at $100+/user/month with annual contracts from $50,000+, based on modules and scale.
Siemens Opcenter
enterpriseAdvanced MES software for detailed production execution, monitoring, and workflow management in complex manufacturing environments.
Deep integration with Siemens Xcelerator platform for end-to-end digital thread and digital twin modeling across manufacturing workflows
Siemens Opcenter is a robust Manufacturing Operations Management (MOM) suite designed to streamline manufacturing workflows from planning and execution to quality control and performance optimization. It supports discrete, process, and hybrid manufacturing environments with modules for MES, production supervision, and advanced analytics. Opcenter integrates deeply with Siemens' Digital Enterprise portfolio, including PLM and ERP systems, to provide real-time visibility and digital twin capabilities for enhanced efficiency and compliance.
Pros
- Comprehensive MOM functionality with strong MES, quality, and performance modules
- Seamless integration with Siemens PLM, ERP, and IoT platforms like MindSphere
- Scalable for complex, enterprise-level manufacturing operations with digital twin support
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup requiring expert implementation
- High cost suitable only for large enterprises
- Limited flexibility for small to mid-sized manufacturers without Siemens ecosystem
Best For
Large manufacturers in discrete, process, or hybrid industries needing integrated MOM with PLM/ERP connectivity and advanced analytics.
Pricing
Enterprise licensing model with custom quotes; typically starts at $500,000+ annually for mid-sized deployments, scaling with modules and users.
Oracle Manufacturing Cloud
enterpriseCloud SCM solution with manufacturing execution capabilities for planning, scheduling, and controlling production workflows.
Autonomous operations with embedded AI for predictive maintenance and real-time production optimization
Oracle Manufacturing Cloud is a comprehensive cloud-based platform designed for managing end-to-end manufacturing workflows, including production planning, execution, quality management, and maintenance. It supports both discrete and process manufacturing with real-time visibility, mobile shop floor control, and AI-driven insights. Integrated within Oracle's Fusion Cloud SCM suite, it enables seamless orchestration across supply chain operations for global enterprises.
Pros
- Extensive feature set with AI-powered planning and analytics
- Seamless integration with Oracle ERP and SCM modules
- Scalable for high-volume, complex global manufacturing
Cons
- Steep implementation and learning curve
- High cost unsuitable for small businesses
- Customization requires specialist expertise
Best For
Enterprise-level manufacturers needing integrated, scalable cloud workflow management across global operations.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting at $500/user/month; varies by modules, users, and scale.
Conclusion
Plex leads as the top choice, with its cloud-native ERP and MES platform offering real-time automation across workflows, quality control, and supply chain management. Epicor Kinetic stands as a close second, excelling with a comprehensive ERP solution for end-to-end manufacturing operations, while MRPeasy proves ideal for small to mid-sized businesses, streamlining production planning and inventory workflows. Together, these tools showcase the breadth of options available to optimize manufacturing efficiency, each tailored to distinct needs.
Take the first step toward enhanced productivity—explore Plex, the top-ranked software, and experience real-time, automated workflow management today.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison