Quick Overview
- 1#1: PlanetTogether - Advanced planning and scheduling software that creates optimized, feasible master production schedules for manufacturers.
- 2#2: Siemens Opcenter APS - Constraint-based advanced planning and scheduling solution for detailed production master scheduling and optimization.
- 3#3: Asprova - High-performance APS software for fast, detailed master scheduling in complex manufacturing environments.
- 4#4: Ortems - APS platform that automates and optimizes master production schedules across diverse manufacturing scenarios.
- 5#5: MRPeasy - Cloud MRP system with intuitive production planning and scheduling tools for small to medium manufacturers.
- 6#6: Katana MRP - Real-time manufacturing ERP that provides visual production scheduling and inventory master planning.
- 7#7: Prodsmart - Cloud-based shop floor management software with real-time scheduling for efficient master production control.
- 8#8: Fishbowl - Inventory and manufacturing software featuring advanced scheduling for order fulfillment and production.
- 9#9: OptiProERP - Integrated ERP with APS capabilities for dynamic job shop scheduling and master planning.
- 10#10: Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management - Enterprise supply chain platform with master planning and production scheduling powered by AI insights.
Tools were chosen based on a holistic evaluation of features (including optimization capabilities, real-time integration, and scalability), reliability in complex environments, intuitive design, and overall value, ensuring alignment with varied operational requirements.
Comparison Table
This comparison table assesses leading master scheduler software, featuring PlanetTogether, Siemens Opcenter APS, Asprova, Ortems, MRPeasy, and more, to highlight key differences in functionality, integration, and scalability. Readers will gain insights into how each tool stands out for various production planning needs, helping them identify the best fit for their operational goals.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PlanetTogether Advanced planning and scheduling software that creates optimized, feasible master production schedules for manufacturers. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Siemens Opcenter APS Constraint-based advanced planning and scheduling solution for detailed production master scheduling and optimization. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 3 | Asprova High-performance APS software for fast, detailed master scheduling in complex manufacturing environments. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 4 | Ortems APS platform that automates and optimizes master production schedules across diverse manufacturing scenarios. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | MRPeasy Cloud MRP system with intuitive production planning and scheduling tools for small to medium manufacturers. | other | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 6 | Katana MRP Real-time manufacturing ERP that provides visual production scheduling and inventory master planning. | other | 8.4/10 | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 7 | Prodsmart Cloud-based shop floor management software with real-time scheduling for efficient master production control. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | Fishbowl Inventory and manufacturing software featuring advanced scheduling for order fulfillment and production. | other | 7.4/10 | 7.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 9 | OptiProERP Integrated ERP with APS capabilities for dynamic job shop scheduling and master planning. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management Enterprise supply chain platform with master planning and production scheduling powered by AI insights. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
Advanced planning and scheduling software that creates optimized, feasible master production schedules for manufacturers.
Constraint-based advanced planning and scheduling solution for detailed production master scheduling and optimization.
High-performance APS software for fast, detailed master scheduling in complex manufacturing environments.
APS platform that automates and optimizes master production schedules across diverse manufacturing scenarios.
Cloud MRP system with intuitive production planning and scheduling tools for small to medium manufacturers.
Real-time manufacturing ERP that provides visual production scheduling and inventory master planning.
Cloud-based shop floor management software with real-time scheduling for efficient master production control.
Inventory and manufacturing software featuring advanced scheduling for order fulfillment and production.
Integrated ERP with APS capabilities for dynamic job shop scheduling and master planning.
Enterprise supply chain platform with master planning and production scheduling powered by AI insights.
PlanetTogether
enterpriseAdvanced planning and scheduling software that creates optimized, feasible master production schedules for manufacturers.
Patented Smart Visual Works (SVW) optimization engine that automatically generates feasible, optimized schedules in seconds across multi-level BOMs and constraints
PlanetTogether is a leading Advanced Planning and Scheduling (APS) software tailored for manufacturing master schedulers, enabling finite capacity planning across complex production environments. It optimizes schedules by considering constraints like material availability, labor, equipment, and tooling, while providing interactive Gantt charts for visual planning and real-time adjustments. The platform integrates deeply with ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, Infor, and Epicor, streamlining data flow for accurate master production scheduling.
Pros
- Powerful optimization algorithms handle complex multi-site scheduling with finite capacity
- Seamless integrations with 300+ ERPs for real-time data synchronization
- Advanced what-if scenario planning and visual drag-and-drop interface for quick adjustments
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced features requiring training
- Pricing is quote-based and can be high for small manufacturers
- Heavy reliance on ERP data quality for optimal performance
Best For
Large to mid-sized manufacturers with complex, constraint-heavy production processes and existing ERP systems needing enterprise-grade master scheduling.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription model starting at around $10,000-$50,000 annually depending on modules, users, and factory complexity; on-premise or cloud options available.
Siemens Opcenter APS
enterpriseConstraint-based advanced planning and scheduling solution for detailed production master scheduling and optimization.
Patented genetic algorithm optimization delivering near-optimal schedules in seconds for highly constrained, complex scenarios
Siemens Opcenter APS is an advanced planning and scheduling (APS) software solution tailored for complex manufacturing environments, enabling master schedulers to optimize production plans across multiple sites. It handles finite capacity scheduling, material constraints, resource allocation, and sequence optimization to minimize delays and maximize throughput. The tool integrates deeply with ERP systems like SAP and supports real-time adjustments for dynamic shop floor changes.
Pros
- Powerful multi-dimensional optimization algorithms for finite capacity scheduling
- Seamless integration with ERP systems like SAP and MES
- Scalable for global, multi-site manufacturing operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial configuration
- High implementation and licensing costs
- User interface less intuitive for non-expert schedulers
Best For
Large manufacturing enterprises in automotive, aerospace, or electronics with complex, multi-site production needing precise master scheduling and optimization.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $100,000+ annually with implementation fees often exceeding $200,000 depending on scale.
Asprova
specializedHigh-performance APS software for fast, detailed master scheduling in complex manufacturing environments.
Lightning-fast scheduling engine that optimizes thousands of jobs across multiple resources in seconds
Asprova is an advanced planning and scheduling (APS) software specializing in finite capacity master scheduling for manufacturing environments. It automatically generates optimized production schedules considering constraints like setup times, tool availability, material stocks, and multi-resource allocation across single or multiple factories. The software provides interactive visual Gantt charts for drag-and-drop adjustments and seamless ERP integration to ensure feasible, real-time plans.
Pros
- Ultra-fast automatic finite capacity scheduling for large datasets
- Highly detailed visual interface with real-time what-if simulations
- Robust handling of complex manufacturing constraints and multi-site support
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- Interface feels dated and overwhelming for beginners
- High implementation costs and customization needs
Best For
Complex make-to-order manufacturers with high-mix production needing precise shop floor master scheduling.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise licensing, typically starting at $50,000+ annually depending on modules and users.
Ortems
enterpriseAPS platform that automates and optimizes master production schedules across diverse manufacturing scenarios.
Kinetic Planning Engine for real-time, algorithm-driven optimization of schedules under multiple constraints
Ortems is an Advanced Planning and Scheduling (APS) software tailored for manufacturing industries, enabling master schedulers to create optimized production plans considering finite capacities, material constraints, and multi-site operations. It uses advanced algorithms for constraint-based scheduling, providing real-time visibility through interactive Gantt charts and what-if simulations. The platform integrates seamlessly with major ERP systems like SAP and Microsoft Dynamics to streamline data flow and enhance decision-making.
Pros
- Powerful constraint-based finite capacity scheduling for complex environments
- Strong ERP integrations and multi-site planning capabilities
- Interactive Gantt charts with real-time what-if simulations
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- Complex implementation requiring consulting support
- Pricing lacks transparency and can be high for smaller firms
Best For
Mid-to-large manufacturing companies with intricate production processes needing robust finite capacity master scheduling.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at €50,000+ annually depending on modules, users, and deployment scale.
MRPeasy
otherCloud MRP system with intuitive production planning and scheduling tools for small to medium manufacturers.
Interactive Gantt chart scheduler with drag-and-drop rescheduling and automatic ripple effects across dependent orders
MRPeasy is a cloud-based MRP software designed for small to medium-sized manufacturers, featuring robust master scheduling tools that create detailed production plans via interactive Gantt charts. It supports finite and infinite capacity planning, automatically generates manufacturing and purchase orders based on demand forecasts, and provides real-time visibility into shop floor operations. The system integrates scheduling seamlessly with inventory, CRM, procurement, and finances for end-to-end manufacturing management.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop Gantt chart for easy schedule adjustments
- Real-time capacity planning and automatic order generation
- Strong integration with inventory and procurement for holistic planning
Cons
- Lacks advanced optimization algorithms for highly complex scenarios
- Scalability limitations for large enterprises with multi-site operations
- Custom reporting options could be more flexible
Best For
Small to medium-sized discrete manufacturers seeking an user-friendly, all-in-one MRP with solid master scheduling capabilities.
Pricing
Starts at $49 per user/month (Gold plan, min. 10 users); higher tiers at $99 (Standard) and $139 (Extended) per user/month, billed annually.
Katana MRP
otherReal-time manufacturing ERP that provides visual production scheduling and inventory master planning.
Live visual MRP planner that dynamically adjusts schedules based on real-time inventory and demand changes
Katana MRP is a cloud-based manufacturing resource planning software designed for small to medium-sized manufacturers, offering real-time inventory tracking, production scheduling, and order management. It serves as a master scheduler by providing a visual drag-and-drop production planner that balances demand with capacity, automates work orders, and generates purchase orders based on live data. The platform integrates seamlessly with e-commerce and accounting tools, making it easier to align production with sales forecasts.
Pros
- Intuitive visual scheduling interface with drag-and-drop functionality
- Real-time MRP engine for automatic order generation and capacity planning
- Strong integrations with Shopify, QuickBooks, and Xero
Cons
- Limited advanced forecasting and what-if scenario analysis compared to enterprise tools
- Scalability challenges for very large operations with complex multi-site needs
- Reporting features lack depth for detailed master schedule analytics
Best For
Small to medium manufacturers needing an user-friendly master scheduling solution to streamline production planning without a steep learning curve.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month for Essentials (1 user), $219/month for Professional, up to $799/month for Enterprise; billed annually with a free trial.
Prodsmart
specializedCloud-based shop floor management software with real-time scheduling for efficient master production control.
Real-time OEE and downtime tracking embedded directly into the scheduling dashboard for instant performance insights
Prodsmart is a cloud-based Manufacturing Execution System (MES) with robust master scheduling features tailored for manufacturing operations. It provides visual scheduling boards, real-time production tracking, job dispatching, and capacity planning to optimize shop floor efficiency and meet production demands. The software integrates shop floor data with ERP systems for seamless planning and execution, focusing on OEE improvement and waste reduction.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling interface with Gantt-style views
- Real-time visibility into production status and bottlenecks
- Strong mobile app support for shop floor operators
Cons
- Lacks advanced AI-driven optimization or finite capacity algorithms found in top APS tools
- Reporting and customization options are somewhat limited
- Pricing requires custom quotes, potentially higher for scaling
Best For
Small to mid-sized manufacturers needing integrated real-time scheduling and shop floor execution without complex enterprise setups.
Pricing
Subscription-based with custom pricing upon request; typically starts around $500/month for basic plans, scaling with users, devices, and modules.
Fishbowl
otherInventory and manufacturing software featuring advanced scheduling for order fulfillment and production.
Drag-and-drop visual scheduler tightly integrated with QuickBooks for real-time inventory-driven production planning
Fishbowl is a comprehensive inventory management software with built-in manufacturing modules, including basic master scheduling tools for small to mid-sized businesses. It enables users to create and manage work orders, bills of materials, and production schedules using a visual drag-and-drop interface integrated with QuickBooks. While it supports essential scheduling functions like resource allocation and capacity planning, it lacks advanced algorithms found in dedicated APS solutions.
Pros
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks for unified inventory and scheduling data
- Visual drag-and-drop scheduler simplifies production planning
- Affordable for SMBs with scalable licensing options
Cons
- Limited advanced scheduling capabilities like finite capacity planning or optimization algorithms
- Scheduling features feel secondary to core inventory management
- Customization requires technical expertise or add-ons
Best For
Small to mid-sized manufacturers relying on QuickBooks who need straightforward production scheduling without complex enterprise requirements.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at ~$4,395 for single-user standard edition, plus ~20% annual maintenance; subscription plans from $439/month.
OptiProERP
enterpriseIntegrated ERP with APS capabilities for dynamic job shop scheduling and master planning.
Visual drag-and-drop scheduler with finite capacity and what-if simulations for effortless production optimization
OptiProERP is a cloud-based ERP platform designed for make-to-order manufacturers, with a strong emphasis on advanced planning and scheduling (APS) for master production scheduling. It features a visual drag-and-drop scheduler that supports finite capacity planning, real-time updates, and what-if scenario analysis to optimize production workflows. Seamlessly integrated with modules for quoting, inventory, purchasing, and CRM, it provides end-to-end visibility and control over manufacturing operations.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop visual scheduler for quick adjustments
- Finite capacity planning with real-time constraint handling
- Full ERP integration reduces need for multiple tools
Cons
- Pricing requires custom quotes, lacking transparency
- Learning curve for full ERP suite beyond scheduling
- Less suited for very large enterprises with complex needs
Best For
Small to medium-sized make-to-order manufacturers needing integrated scheduling within a comprehensive ERP system.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing starting around $99/user/month, scaling with modules, users, and implementation services.
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management
enterpriseEnterprise supply chain platform with master planning and production scheduling powered by AI insights.
Planning Optimization add-in for real-time, constraint-based finite scheduling using advanced algorithms
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management is a comprehensive ERP solution that includes advanced master scheduling capabilities for demand forecasting, master production scheduling, material requirements planning (MRP), and capacity planning. It leverages AI-driven Planning Optimization to handle complex, constraint-based finite scheduling across multi-site operations. Ideal for enterprises, it integrates seamlessly with other Dynamics modules for end-to-end supply chain orchestration.
Pros
- Robust AI-powered planning with finite capacity scheduling
- Deep integration with Microsoft ecosystem (Azure, Power BI)
- Scalable for global, multi-site operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex setup
- High licensing and implementation costs
- Overkill for small to mid-sized businesses
Best For
Large enterprises with complex manufacturing and supply chain needs requiring integrated ERP scheduling.
Pricing
Subscription-based at ~$180/user/month for Supply Chain Management module, plus implementation fees often exceeding $100K.
Conclusion
Among the reviewed master scheduler software tools, PlanetTogether leads as the top choice, excelling in creating optimized, feasible master production schedules for manufacturers. While Siemens Opcenter APS and Asprova also stand out—offering constraint-based optimization and fast, detailed scheduling—they cater to distinct use cases, making them strong alternatives for varied needs.
Don't settle for subpar planning—try PlanetTogether to craft efficient master schedules and enhance operational performance.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison