Quick Overview
- 1#1: SAP S/4HANA - Enterprise resource planning suite with advanced MRP capabilities including AI-driven forecasting, real-time planning, and multi-level BOM support for complex manufacturing.
- 2#2: Oracle NetSuite - Cloud ERP platform delivering integrated MRP with demand planning, inventory optimization, and production scheduling for growing businesses.
- 3#3: Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management - Cloud-based supply chain solution featuring MRP, master planning, and warehouse management with AI insights for efficient material flow.
- 4#4: Epicor Kinetic - Manufacturing ERP system providing robust MRP, advanced scheduling, and shop floor execution for discrete and process manufacturers.
- 5#5: Plex - Smart manufacturing platform offering cloud-native MRP, MES, and quality management integrated into a single system for real-time production control.
- 6#6: Infor LN - Industrial ERP with sophisticated MRP engine supporting global supply chains, constraint-based planning, and multi-site operations.
- 7#7: QAD Adaptive ERP - Manufacturing-focused ERP providing adaptive MRP, demand-driven replenishment, and end-to-end supply chain visibility.
- 8#8: MRPeasy - Cloud-based MRP software for small manufacturers handling production planning, inventory tracking, and purchasing automation.
- 9#9: Katana MRP - Visual MRP tool for makers offering live inventory insights, production scheduling, and multi-location support in real-time.
- 10#10: Fishbowl Inventory - Inventory control software with MRP features for order fulfillment, manufacturing, and QuickBooks integration.
We evaluated tools based on core MRP functionality, scalability, ease of implementation, user experience, and value for money, ensuring the rankings reflect the most robust and adaptable platforms across diverse business needs.
Comparison Table
This comparison table evaluates top Material Requirements Planning software tools—such as SAP S/4HANA, Oracle NetSuite, Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management, Epicor Kinetic, and Plex—assisting readers in understanding features, integration capabilities, and scalability to find the optimal solution for their needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | SAP S/4HANA Enterprise resource planning suite with advanced MRP capabilities including AI-driven forecasting, real-time planning, and multi-level BOM support for complex manufacturing. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 2 | Oracle NetSuite Cloud ERP platform delivering integrated MRP with demand planning, inventory optimization, and production scheduling for growing businesses. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 3 | Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management Cloud-based supply chain solution featuring MRP, master planning, and warehouse management with AI insights for efficient material flow. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | Epicor Kinetic Manufacturing ERP system providing robust MRP, advanced scheduling, and shop floor execution for discrete and process manufacturers. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | Plex Smart manufacturing platform offering cloud-native MRP, MES, and quality management integrated into a single system for real-time production control. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | Infor LN Industrial ERP with sophisticated MRP engine supporting global supply chains, constraint-based planning, and multi-site operations. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | QAD Adaptive ERP Manufacturing-focused ERP providing adaptive MRP, demand-driven replenishment, and end-to-end supply chain visibility. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 8 | MRPeasy Cloud-based MRP software for small manufacturers handling production planning, inventory tracking, and purchasing automation. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 9 | Katana MRP Visual MRP tool for makers offering live inventory insights, production scheduling, and multi-location support in real-time. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | Fishbowl Inventory Inventory control software with MRP features for order fulfillment, manufacturing, and QuickBooks integration. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 |
Enterprise resource planning suite with advanced MRP capabilities including AI-driven forecasting, real-time planning, and multi-level BOM support for complex manufacturing.
Cloud ERP platform delivering integrated MRP with demand planning, inventory optimization, and production scheduling for growing businesses.
Cloud-based supply chain solution featuring MRP, master planning, and warehouse management with AI insights for efficient material flow.
Manufacturing ERP system providing robust MRP, advanced scheduling, and shop floor execution for discrete and process manufacturers.
Smart manufacturing platform offering cloud-native MRP, MES, and quality management integrated into a single system for real-time production control.
Industrial ERP with sophisticated MRP engine supporting global supply chains, constraint-based planning, and multi-site operations.
Manufacturing-focused ERP providing adaptive MRP, demand-driven replenishment, and end-to-end supply chain visibility.
Cloud-based MRP software for small manufacturers handling production planning, inventory tracking, and purchasing automation.
Visual MRP tool for makers offering live inventory insights, production scheduling, and multi-location support in real-time.
Inventory control software with MRP features for order fulfillment, manufacturing, and QuickBooks integration.
SAP S/4HANA
enterpriseEnterprise resource planning suite with advanced MRP capabilities including AI-driven forecasting, real-time planning, and multi-level BOM support for complex manufacturing.
HANA-powered real-time MRP with embedded analytics for instant simulations and what-if scenarios
SAP S/4HANA is a comprehensive ERP platform with advanced Material Requirements Planning (MRP) capabilities embedded in its Intelligent Manufacturing and Supply Chain modules. It enables real-time demand forecasting, inventory optimization, production scheduling, and procurement planning using in-memory HANA database technology. The system supports complex multi-level BOM processing, safety stock calculations, and MRP runs at scale for global enterprises.
Pros
- Real-time MRP processing with HANA in-memory computing
- Seamless integration across procurement, production, and sales
- Advanced AI/ML-driven forecasting and scenario planning
- Highly scalable for multinational operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex configuration
- Extremely high implementation costs and timelines
- Requires extensive customization and skilled SAP consultants
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, global supply chains needing integrated ERP-driven MRP.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing starting at $100K+ annually, scaling to millions based on users, modules, and deployment (cloud/on-premise); implementation often adds $1M+.
Oracle NetSuite
enterpriseCloud ERP platform delivering integrated MRP with demand planning, inventory optimization, and production scheduling for growing businesses.
Cloud-native, real-time MRP fully integrated with ERP financials and CRM for automated, multi-entity planning
Oracle NetSuite is a comprehensive cloud-based ERP platform that embeds advanced Material Requirements Planning (MRP) within its inventory and supply chain management modules. It automates material needs calculation based on demand forecasts, bills of materials, and inventory levels, generating purchase orders, work orders, and production schedules in real-time. NetSuite's MRP integrates seamlessly with financials, CRM, and e-commerce, enabling holistic business visibility and scalability for complex operations.
Pros
- Deep integration with full ERP ecosystem for end-to-end visibility
- Real-time MRP planning with demand forecasting and lot/serial tracking
- Highly scalable for multi-location and global supply chains
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex customization
- Lengthy and costly implementation process
- Premium pricing not ideal for small businesses
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing integrated ERP with robust MRP for complex manufacturing and distribution.
Pricing
Subscription-based; custom quotes typically start at $10,000-$25,000/year base + $99-$199/user/month.
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management
enterpriseCloud-based supply chain solution featuring MRP, master planning, and warehouse management with AI insights for efficient material flow.
AI-powered Planning Optimization for real-time, constraint-based MRP calculations and scenario what-ifs
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management is a robust ERP platform with advanced Material Requirements Planning (MRP) capabilities, automating the generation of purchase and production orders based on demand forecasts, inventory levels, and bills of materials. It supports multi-site planning, safety stock calculations, and coverage planning to optimize material flow and minimize shortages. Integrated with AI-driven tools, it provides real-time visibility and scenario simulations for proactive decision-making in complex supply chains.
Pros
- Comprehensive MRP engine with multi-level pegging and infinite/finite capacity planning
- Seamless integration with Microsoft ecosystem including Power BI and Azure for analytics
- Scalable for global enterprises with multi-site and multi-company support
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial configuration requiring expert implementation
- High licensing and customization costs
- Overkill for small businesses due to its enterprise focus
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, multi-site supply chains needing integrated ERP and MRP functionality.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at ~$180/user/month for Supply Chain Management module, plus implementation fees often exceeding $100K.
Epicor Kinetic
enterpriseManufacturing ERP system providing robust MRP, advanced scheduling, and shop floor execution for discrete and process manufacturers.
AI-driven Kinetic Assist for predictive MRP analytics and automated exception management
Epicor Kinetic is a cloud-native ERP platform tailored for manufacturing and distribution industries, featuring robust Material Requirements Planning (MRP) modules that automate demand forecasting, inventory optimization, and procurement scheduling. It supports multi-level bills of materials (BOMs), capacity planning, and real-time visibility across the supply chain to minimize stockouts and excess inventory. Integrated with advanced analytics and AI-driven insights, it enables precise material planning while syncing with production, quality, and financial processes.
Pros
- Comprehensive MRP with multi-level BOM explosion, lot tracking, and substitution logic
- Real-time demand forecasting and AI-powered supply chain insights via Kinetic Assist
- Seamless integration with APS tools like PlanetTogether for advanced scheduling
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive customization options
- High implementation costs and lengthy deployment timelines
- Pricing can be prohibitive for smaller operations
Best For
Mid-sized to large manufacturing enterprises needing scalable, integrated MRP within a full ERP suite.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription pricing, typically $150-$300 per user/month for cloud, plus significant one-time implementation fees starting at $50K+.
Plex
enterpriseSmart manufacturing platform offering cloud-native MRP, MES, and quality management integrated into a single system for real-time production control.
Real-time IoT-driven MRP that automatically adjusts material plans based on live shop floor data
Plex is a cloud-native ERP and MES platform designed for manufacturers, offering integrated Material Requirements Planning (MRP) to forecast material needs, manage inventory, and align production schedules with demand. It provides real-time visibility into supply chain operations through IoT-enabled shop floor data integration and automated planning tools. While robust for discrete manufacturing, it excels in dynamic environments requiring adaptive MRP without on-premise hardware.
Pros
- Real-time MRP calculations with IoT data integration for accurate forecasting
- Scalable cloud architecture supports growing manufacturers without infrastructure costs
- Seamless connectivity across supply chain for end-to-end visibility
Cons
- High implementation costs and time for full customization
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Limited flexibility for highly specialized industries outside discrete manufacturing
Best For
Mid-sized discrete manufacturers needing scalable, real-time MRP integrated with shop floor operations.
Pricing
Custom quote-based subscription starting at around $150/user/month, scaling with modules, users, and production volume.
Infor LN
enterpriseIndustrial ERP with sophisticated MRP engine supporting global supply chains, constraint-based planning, and multi-site operations.
Integrated finite capacity scheduling within MRP for realistic production planning beyond basic infinite horizon calculations
Infor LN is a robust ERP system from Infor tailored for manufacturing industries, featuring advanced Material Requirements Planning (MRP) capabilities to automate material needs calculation based on demand forecasts, bills of materials, and production schedules. It supports multi-level BOM processing, inventory optimization, and integration with procurement and capacity planning to minimize stockouts and excess inventory. Designed for complex, global operations, it excels in discrete, process, and project-based manufacturing environments.
Pros
- Comprehensive multi-level MRP with pegging and netting for accurate planning
- Scalable for multi-site global operations with strong supply chain integration
- Advanced forecasting and capacity requirements planning (CRP) tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex user interface
- Lengthy and costly implementation process
- High licensing and customization expenses
Best For
Large manufacturing enterprises with complex, multi-plant supply chains requiring deep MRP integration within a full ERP suite.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing, typically $150-$300 per user/month plus substantial implementation fees (quotes required).
QAD Adaptive ERP
enterpriseManufacturing-focused ERP providing adaptive MRP, demand-driven replenishment, and end-to-end supply chain visibility.
Adaptive Manufacturing Planning engine that leverages AI-driven forecasting for real-time MRP recalculations and scenario simulations
QAD Adaptive ERP is a cloud-native enterprise resource planning solution designed specifically for manufacturing industries, with robust Material Requirements Planning (MRP) capabilities to manage inventory, production scheduling, and procurement. It automates demand forecasting, BOM processing, and purchase order generation while integrating seamlessly with broader supply chain and shop floor operations. Ideal for complex manufacturing environments, it provides real-time visibility and adaptability to handle volatile demand and supply disruptions.
Pros
- Comprehensive MRP with multi-level BOM explosion and advanced planning for discrete, process, and repetitive manufacturing
- Deep industry-specific customizations for automotive, life sciences, and consumer goods
- Cloud scalability and real-time analytics for dynamic supply chain adjustments
Cons
- Complex implementation requiring significant customization and consulting
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users due to ERP depth
- High cost prohibitive for small to mid-sized businesses
Best For
Large manufacturing enterprises in regulated or complex industries needing integrated MRP within a full ERP ecosystem.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing; typically starts at $100,000+ annually depending on modules, users, and deployment scale.
MRPeasy
specializedCloud-based MRP software for small manufacturers handling production planning, inventory tracking, and purchasing automation.
Visual Gantt chart production scheduler with infinite capacity MRP planning
MRPeasy is a cloud-based ERP and MRP software designed specifically for small to medium-sized manufacturing businesses, focusing on streamlining production planning and inventory management. It automates material requirements planning by analyzing bills of materials (BOMs), demand forecasts, and stock levels to generate precise purchase orders and production schedules. Additional features include shop floor control, CRM, and real-time reporting, making it a comprehensive solution for discrete and make-to-order manufacturing.
Pros
- Intuitive, visual interface with drag-and-drop scheduling
- Strong MRP capabilities including automated reorder points and BOM management
- Real-time inventory tracking and multi-warehouse support
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics and forecasting for complex enterprises
- No on-premise deployment option
- Customization requires higher-tier plans
Best For
Small to medium-sized manufacturers seeking an affordable, user-friendly MRP system for discrete production without enterprise complexity.
Pricing
Starts at $49 per user/month (billed annually) for Basic plan; Production plan at $99/user/month; custom Enterprise pricing available.
Katana MRP
specializedVisual MRP tool for makers offering live inventory insights, production scheduling, and multi-location support in real-time.
Live MRP engine that dynamically calculates material needs based on real-time sales, production, and inventory data
Katana MRP is a cloud-based inventory and manufacturing platform designed for small to medium-sized businesses, offering real-time material requirements planning (MRP), production scheduling, and inventory tracking. It automates purchase orders, manages bills of materials (BOMs), and provides visual dashboards for shop floor control. The software integrates seamlessly with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and accounting tools like QuickBooks, making it suitable for makers transitioning to scalable manufacturing.
Pros
- Intuitive visual interface with real-time inventory visibility
- Strong MRP automation for demand forecasting and reorder points
- Excellent integrations with e-commerce and accounting software
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics and custom reporting options
- Pricing can escalate quickly for multi-location or high-volume users
- Less suitable for complex, large-scale enterprise manufacturing
Best For
Small to medium-sized manufacturers and makers seeking an user-friendly MRP tool to manage inventory and production without steep learning curves.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Maker plan) for basic MRP and inventory; scales to $299/month (Manufacturer) and $999/month (Enterprise) with advanced features like multi-location support.
Fishbowl Inventory
specializedInventory control software with MRP features for order fulfillment, manufacturing, and QuickBooks integration.
Native, two-way QuickBooks integration that syncs inventory, orders, and MRP data automatically
Fishbowl Inventory is an inventory management software tailored for small to mid-sized businesses in manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution, with built-in MRP capabilities to plan material needs based on sales orders, work orders, and inventory levels. It supports bill of materials (BOM) management, automated reorder points, and purchase order generation to ensure timely material availability. The platform excels in real-time tracking via barcode scanning and seamless integration with QuickBooks for accounting synchronization.
Pros
- Seamless QuickBooks integration for real-time data sync
- Intuitive interface with strong barcode and multi-location inventory support
- Affordable entry point with solid basic MRP for demand planning and BOM handling
Cons
- Lacks advanced forecasting and AI-driven analytics found in enterprise MRP tools
- Primarily desktop-based with limited cloud scalability for large operations
- MRP module is functional but not as robust for complex supply chain scenarios
Best For
Small to medium-sized manufacturers and distributors needing straightforward MRP integrated with QuickBooks without high costs.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at $4,395 for Standard edition (one-time fee) plus ~20% annual maintenance; higher tiers up to $6,295 for Warehouse edition.
Conclusion
This review of leading material requirements planning software highlights SAP S/4HANA as the standout choice, with advanced AI-driven forecasting, real-time planning, and multi-level BOM support for complex manufacturing. Oracle NetSuite and Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management follow closely, offering robust solutions—NetSuite for growing businesses with integrated demand planning, and Dynamics 365 for cloud-based efficiency with AI insights. The remaining tools, including Epicor Kinetic, Plex, and Fishbowl Inventory, provide tailored options for specific needs, ensuring a range of reliable choices.
Begin by exploring SAP S/4HANA to leverage its top-tier MRP capabilities, or consider Oracle NetSuite or Microsoft Dynamics 365 depending on your business size and operational focus, to find the ideal fit for your material management needs.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison