Quick Overview
- 1#1: DMSi Vista - Provides comprehensive electronic parts catalog software for OEMs in powersports, lawn, garden, and outdoor equipment industries with advanced search and illustration features.
- 2#2: Compu-Cat - Delivers powerful parts catalog management for industrial equipment distributors with exploded views, pricing, and inventory integration.
- 3#3: Multi Media Parts - Transforms CAD models into interactive 3D illustrated parts catalogs for manufacturers and service providers.
- 4#4: WHI Solutions PARTSplus - Offers the industry's largest aftermarket automotive parts catalog compliant with ACES and PIES standards for accurate lookups.
- 5#5: TecAlliance - Powers global automotive aftermarket parts identification through standardized electronic catalog data and software solutions.
- 6#6: PartsTech - Mobile digital OEM parts catalog app for automotive repair shops with real-time pricing and availability from multiple suppliers.
- 7#7: ALLDATA - Supplies OEM-sourced repair information including detailed parts catalogs and diagrams for professional technicians.
- 8#8: PartsBox - Manages small parts inventory and catalogs for electronics makers with bin locations, datasheets, and purchase tracking.
- 9#9: Fishbowl Inventory - Advanced inventory control system with customizable parts catalogs, multi-location tracking, and QuickBooks integration.
- 10#10: Katana MRP - Cloud-based manufacturing software with real-time inventory management and dynamic parts lists for production planning.
We ranked these tools based on industry-specific feature alignment, accuracy, user-friendliness, scalability, and overall value, ensuring they meet the diverse demands of modern workflows.
Comparison Table
Parts catalog software is vital for efficient inventory management and parts distribution, with tools such as DMSi Vista, Compu-Cat, and Multi Media Parts forming key solutions in the market. This comparison table details features, usability, and suitability across platforms, including WHI Solutions PARTSplus and TecAlliance, aiding readers in identifying the best fit for their operational needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | DMSi Vista Provides comprehensive electronic parts catalog software for OEMs in powersports, lawn, garden, and outdoor equipment industries with advanced search and illustration features. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 2 | Compu-Cat Delivers powerful parts catalog management for industrial equipment distributors with exploded views, pricing, and inventory integration. | specialized | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 3 | Multi Media Parts Transforms CAD models into interactive 3D illustrated parts catalogs for manufacturers and service providers. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 4 | WHI Solutions PARTSplus Offers the industry's largest aftermarket automotive parts catalog compliant with ACES and PIES standards for accurate lookups. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | TecAlliance Powers global automotive aftermarket parts identification through standardized electronic catalog data and software solutions. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 6 | PartsTech Mobile digital OEM parts catalog app for automotive repair shops with real-time pricing and availability from multiple suppliers. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 7 | ALLDATA Supplies OEM-sourced repair information including detailed parts catalogs and diagrams for professional technicians. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 8 | PartsBox Manages small parts inventory and catalogs for electronics makers with bin locations, datasheets, and purchase tracking. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 9 | Fishbowl Inventory Advanced inventory control system with customizable parts catalogs, multi-location tracking, and QuickBooks integration. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 6.7/10 | 7.1/10 |
| 10 | Katana MRP Cloud-based manufacturing software with real-time inventory management and dynamic parts lists for production planning. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.5/10 |
Provides comprehensive electronic parts catalog software for OEMs in powersports, lawn, garden, and outdoor equipment industries with advanced search and illustration features.
Delivers powerful parts catalog management for industrial equipment distributors with exploded views, pricing, and inventory integration.
Transforms CAD models into interactive 3D illustrated parts catalogs for manufacturers and service providers.
Offers the industry's largest aftermarket automotive parts catalog compliant with ACES and PIES standards for accurate lookups.
Powers global automotive aftermarket parts identification through standardized electronic catalog data and software solutions.
Mobile digital OEM parts catalog app for automotive repair shops with real-time pricing and availability from multiple suppliers.
Supplies OEM-sourced repair information including detailed parts catalogs and diagrams for professional technicians.
Manages small parts inventory and catalogs for electronics makers with bin locations, datasheets, and purchase tracking.
Advanced inventory control system with customizable parts catalogs, multi-location tracking, and QuickBooks integration.
Cloud-based manufacturing software with real-time inventory management and dynamic parts lists for production planning.
DMSi Vista
enterpriseProvides comprehensive electronic parts catalog software for OEMs in powersports, lawn, garden, and outdoor equipment industries with advanced search and illustration features.
Advanced OEM data import and synchronization with dealer-specific pricing overlays for real-time, accurate parts availability across global networks
DMSi Vista (dms.net) is a leading enterprise-grade parts catalog software tailored for equipment dealers in industries like agriculture, construction, and forestry. It delivers interactive electronic parts catalogs (EPC) with exploded diagrams, advanced search by part number, serial number, or description, and real-time integration with OEM data sources. The platform streamlines parts lookup, ordering, and inventory management while supporting multi-language and multi-currency operations for global dealerships.
Pros
- Comprehensive EPC with interactive 3D exploded views and OEM data synchronization
- Seamless integration with ERP, CRM, and inventory systems for end-to-end workflow
- Powerful search and configurator tools that reduce lookup time by up to 50%
Cons
- High initial setup and customization costs for enterprise deployments
- Steeper learning curve for non-technical users despite intuitive UI
- Limited standalone mobile app; best accessed via web or integrated dealer portals
Best For
Large equipment dealerships and distributors requiring robust, integrated parts cataloging with OEM data and full DMS functionality.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; typically subscription-based starting at $10,000+ annually depending on users, modules, and integrations.
Compu-Cat
specializedDelivers powerful parts catalog management for industrial equipment distributors with exploded views, pricing, and inventory integration.
Interactive 3D exploded views with zoom, rotate, and direct parts linking from diagrams
Compu-Cat is a specialized electronic parts catalog (EPC) software solution designed for equipment manufacturers, dealers, and distributors in industries like agriculture, construction, and forestry. It enables the creation of interactive parts catalogs featuring 2D and 3D exploded diagrams, advanced search tools for parts lookup by number, description, or position, and seamless integration with ERP systems. The platform supports multi-language publications and web-based access for global distribution to customers and service teams.
Pros
- Powerful 2D/3D exploded diagram tools with precise hotspot linking
- Robust fuzzy search and matrix pricing support
- Excellent ERP integrations and multi-language capabilities
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced authoring features
- Pricing can be prohibitive for small businesses
- Occasional lag with very large catalog datasets
Best For
Mid-to-large equipment OEMs and distributors requiring scalable, professional EPC management for global operations.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; modular subscriptions start around $5,000-$10,000 annually depending on users, catalogs, and features.
Multi Media Parts
specializedTransforms CAD models into interactive 3D illustrated parts catalogs for manufacturers and service providers.
Interactive 360° exploded diagrams with intelligent hotspots linking directly to parts data and e-commerce
Multi Media Parts is a specialized platform designed for OEMs to create interactive electronic parts catalogs (EPCs) with 2D and 3D exploded diagrams. It supports multimedia integration, advanced search functionalities, and seamless access across web, mobile, and print formats. The software streamlines parts identification, ordering, and inventory management for industries like powersports and outdoor equipment.
Pros
- Highly interactive 3D exploded views with hotspot technology for precise part identification
- Robust search and multimedia integration enhancing user experience
- Cross-platform compatibility including web, mobile, and print outputs
Cons
- Steep initial learning curve for complex catalog builds
- Pricing can be high for smaller operations without volume discounts
- Limited native ERP integrations compared to enterprise competitors
Best For
Mid-sized OEMs in powersports or equipment manufacturing seeking engaging, interactive digital parts catalogs.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting around $5,000/year per catalog, scaling with features and user volume; contact for quote.
WHI Solutions PARTSplus
enterpriseOffers the industry's largest aftermarket automotive parts catalog compliant with ACES and PIES standards for accurate lookups.
Unmatched cross-reference engine linking parts across 5,000+ manufacturers for competitive aftermarket sourcing
WHI Solutions PARTSplus is a robust electronic parts catalog (eCat) platform tailored for the heavy-duty aftermarket industry, offering access to millions of parts from thousands of manufacturers. It enables fast parts lookup by OEM number, description, or application, with advanced cross-referencing between competitors and detailed exploded-view illustrations. The software integrates seamlessly with e-commerce, inventory, and quoting systems to streamline operations for distributors and service providers.
Pros
- Vast database with 20+ million parts and superior cross-referencing capabilities
- High-quality illustrations and application-specific searches
- Strong integrations with ERP, e-commerce, and mobile access
Cons
- Primarily focused on heavy-duty sectors, limiting versatility
- Steep initial setup for custom integrations
- Pricing can be premium for smaller operations
Best For
Heavy-duty parts distributors, wholesalers, and repair shops requiring comprehensive cataloging and cross-referencing for trucks and equipment.
Pricing
Subscription-based, typically $500-$2,000/month depending on users, data volume, and integrations; custom quotes required.
TecAlliance
enterprisePowers global automotive aftermarket parts identification through standardized electronic catalog data and software solutions.
TecDoc standardized catalogue system, the de facto global industry standard with 30+ years of curated data from 6,000+ suppliers
TecAlliance offers TecDoc, a comprehensive global standard for automotive parts cataloging software, providing access to a massive database of over 6,000 manufacturers and millions of spare parts articles. It enables precise parts identification, cross-referencing, and integration into e-commerce, workshop management, and distribution systems. The platform supports multi-language, multi-market coverage with standardized data formats for high accuracy and reliability in the aftermarket industry.
Pros
- Vast, standardized database with real-time updates and exceptional data quality
- Seamless API integrations for e-commerce and ERP systems
- Industry-leading coverage across global markets and languages
Cons
- Enterprise-level pricing inaccessible for small businesses
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation process
- Limited flexibility outside automotive aftermarket focus
Best For
Large automotive distributors, wholesalers, and workshops requiring robust, standardized parts data integration.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscriptions starting at several thousand euros annually, based on data volume, users, and integrations; contact sales for quotes.
PartsTech
specializedMobile digital OEM parts catalog app for automotive repair shops with real-time pricing and availability from multiple suppliers.
Interactive OEM exploded parts diagrams with VIN-specific lookups
PartsTech is a mobile-first parts catalog platform tailored for the automotive aftermarket, offering instant access to over 400 million parts from 200+ suppliers with real-time pricing and availability. It features VIN decoding, interactive exploded diagrams, cross-referencing, and one-click ordering directly from the shop floor. The software integrates with leading shop management systems like Mitchell1 and ALLDATA to streamline repair workflows and reduce lookup time.
Pros
- Vast supplier network with real-time inventory data
- Intuitive mobile app optimized for technicians
- Seamless integrations with popular DMS platforms
Cons
- Primarily focused on automotive, limited multi-industry support
- Occasional inaccuracies in part matching reported by users
- Premium features locked behind paid tiers
Best For
Independent auto repair shops and mobile technicians seeking fast, on-the-go parts lookup and ordering.
Pricing
Free basic catalog access; Pro plan at $49/month per user for advanced features like unlimited ordering and analytics.
ALLDATA
enterpriseSupplies OEM-sourced repair information including detailed parts catalogs and diagrams for professional technicians.
OEM-verified exploded parts diagrams with interactive zooming and direct part number hyperlinks
ALLDATA is a leading online platform delivering OEM-sourced automotive repair, diagnostic, and parts catalog information to professional technicians. Its parts catalog module provides detailed exploded diagrams, genuine part numbers, cross-references, and availability checks for millions of vehicle applications across domestic, Asian, and European makes. Integrated with repair procedures, wiring diagrams, and TSBs, it streamlines the workflow from diagnosis to parts ordering.
Pros
- Comprehensive OEM parts data with exploded diagrams for precise identification
- Extensive vehicle coverage spanning 1982-present models
- Seamless integration with repair and diagnostic tools
Cons
- High subscription costs limit accessibility for small shops
- Web-based interface requires reliable internet and can feel cluttered
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
Best For
Professional auto repair shops and technicians needing accurate OEM parts catalogs alongside full repair information.
Pricing
Subscription-based at $130-$200+ per month per user, with volume discounts for shops; annual contracts available.
PartsBox
specializedManages small parts inventory and catalogs for electronics makers with bin locations, datasheets, and purchase tracking.
Parametric parts search engine with automatic supplier matching and one-click ordering
PartsBox is a cloud-based parts inventory management platform tailored for makers, engineers, and hardware teams to catalog, track, and procure electronic and mechanical components. It features a searchable parametric parts database, BOM import/export, automated purchase orders with supplier integrations like DigiKey and Mouser, and tools for projects, assemblies, and kitting. The software supports barcode/QR scanning, stock alerts, and usage analytics to streamline hardware development workflows.
Pros
- Vast searchable parts library with parametric filters, datasheets, and 3D models
- Seamless procurement automation and supplier price comparisons
- Robust project/BOM management with kitting and stock tracking
Cons
- Free plan limited to 1,000 parts and basic features
- Interface can feel dense for beginners
- No native offline access
Best For
Hardware engineers and small prototyping teams needing comprehensive parts cataloging and procurement integration.
Pricing
Free plan for individuals (1,000 parts limit); Pro at $29/user/month; Team plans from $15/user/month (min 3 users, billed annually); Enterprise custom.
Fishbowl Inventory
enterpriseAdvanced inventory control system with customizable parts catalogs, multi-location tracking, and QuickBooks integration.
Native, real-time two-way integration with QuickBooks that eliminates double-entry for inventory and accounting.
Fishbowl Inventory is a robust inventory management platform tailored for small to mid-sized manufacturers, distributors, and warehouses, offering comprehensive tracking of parts and stock across multiple locations. It functions as parts catalog software by maintaining detailed item masters with custom fields, images, SKUs, lot/serial tracking, and bill of materials (BOMs) for assemblies. The software integrates deeply with QuickBooks for real-time accounting sync and supports barcode scanning, purchasing, and order fulfillment to streamline parts management.
Pros
- Seamless two-way QuickBooks integration for real-time data sync
- Advanced lot, serial, and matrix tracking for precise parts inventory
- Multi-level BOMs and manufacturing tools for complex assemblies
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and customization
- Primarily on-premise deployment with limited native cloud options
- High upfront licensing costs without flexible subscription tiers
Best For
Small to mid-sized manufacturers and distributors using QuickBooks who require detailed parts cataloging and production inventory control.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at $4,395 for the standard edition, plus ~20% annual maintenance; enterprise options scale higher.
Katana MRP
specializedCloud-based manufacturing software with real-time inventory management and dynamic parts lists for production planning.
Real-time multi-location inventory syncing with lot/serial traceability
Katana MRP is a cloud-based manufacturing resource planning (MRP) software that provides inventory management and basic parts cataloging for small to medium-sized manufacturers. It enables users to organize parts data, track stock levels in real-time, manage bills of materials (BOMs), and handle serial/lot traceability within a unified platform. While not a dedicated parts catalog solution, it supports product listings, categories, and search functionality integrated with production and sales workflows.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with real-time inventory visibility
- Strong BOM and traceability for parts tracking
- Seamless integrations with e-commerce and accounting tools
Cons
- Lacks advanced visual tools like exploded diagrams or interactive catalogs
- Primarily MRP-focused, not optimized for standalone parts cataloging
- Limited customization for complex parts hierarchies
Best For
Small manufacturers needing basic parts organization tied to inventory and production planning.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Essentials, up to 100 orders), $299/month (Professional), custom Enterprise plans.
Conclusion
The reviewed parts catalog software showcases a wide array of tools, each tailored to distinct industries and needs. Topping the list is DMSi Vista, celebrated for its comprehensive features that cater to specific sectors like powersports and outdoor equipment. Close behind are Compu-Cat, ideal for industrial distributors with robust inventory and pricing integration, and Multi Media Parts, excelling with interactive 3D catalogs for manufacturers. Together, these tools redefine efficient parts management, with DMSi Vista emerging as the standout choice.
Take the next step in optimizing your operations—start using DMSi Vista to experience its unmatched capabilities and streamline your parts catalog management today.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison