Quick Overview
- 1#1: DELMIAworks - Integrated ERP and MES platform tailored for plastics manufacturers, especially injection molding, with real-time production monitoring and quality control.
- 2#2: Plex - Cloud-native smart manufacturing ERP with specialized plastics modules for traceability, scheduling, and supply chain management.
- 3#3: Epicor Kinetic - Robust ERP solution for plastics industry handling complex manufacturing processes, inventory, and customer-specific requirements.
- 4#4: Infor CloudSuite Industrial - Scalable discrete manufacturing ERP with advanced planning, MES integration, and plastics-specific quality management features.
- 5#5: QAD - Adaptive ERP for global plastics manufacturers focusing on supply chain visibility, production efficiency, and compliance.
- 6#6: SYSPRO - Flexible mid-market ERP with customization for plastics processing, inventory control, and financials.
- 7#7: Global Shop Solutions - Shop floor-focused ERP for custom plastics job shops managing quoting, scheduling, and capacity planning.
- 8#8: JobBOSS² - ERP for make-to-order plastics shops with strong job costing, inventory, and shop floor control.
- 9#9: Oracle NetSuite - Cloud ERP with manufacturing edition supporting plastics production planning, procurement, and multi-location inventory.
- 10#10: MRPeasy - Affordable cloud MRP/ERP for small plastics manufacturers streamlining production scheduling and stock management.
These tools were selected based on industry-specific features—like real-time monitoring, MES integration, and compliance—paired with user experience, scalability, and value, ensuring they address the unique needs of injection molding, extrusion, and contract manufacturers alike
Comparison Table
For plastics industry businesses, selecting the right ERP software is key to streamlining operations and boosting efficiency. This comparison table explores tools like DELMIAworks, Plex, Epicor Kinetic, Infor CloudSuite Industrial, QAD, and more, helping readers understand their core features, industry fit, and unique value. By analyzing these solutions side-by-side, stakeholders can make informed decisions to align technology with their operational needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | DELMIAworks Integrated ERP and MES platform tailored for plastics manufacturers, especially injection molding, with real-time production monitoring and quality control. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.7/10 | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Plex Cloud-native smart manufacturing ERP with specialized plastics modules for traceability, scheduling, and supply chain management. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 3 | Epicor Kinetic Robust ERP solution for plastics industry handling complex manufacturing processes, inventory, and customer-specific requirements. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Infor CloudSuite Industrial Scalable discrete manufacturing ERP with advanced planning, MES integration, and plastics-specific quality management features. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | QAD Adaptive ERP for global plastics manufacturers focusing on supply chain visibility, production efficiency, and compliance. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | SYSPRO Flexible mid-market ERP with customization for plastics processing, inventory control, and financials. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | Global Shop Solutions Shop floor-focused ERP for custom plastics job shops managing quoting, scheduling, and capacity planning. | enterprise | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | JobBOSS² ERP for make-to-order plastics shops with strong job costing, inventory, and shop floor control. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 9 | Oracle NetSuite Cloud ERP with manufacturing edition supporting plastics production planning, procurement, and multi-location inventory. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 10 | MRPeasy Affordable cloud MRP/ERP for small plastics manufacturers streamlining production scheduling and stock management. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 |
Integrated ERP and MES platform tailored for plastics manufacturers, especially injection molding, with real-time production monitoring and quality control.
Cloud-native smart manufacturing ERP with specialized plastics modules for traceability, scheduling, and supply chain management.
Robust ERP solution for plastics industry handling complex manufacturing processes, inventory, and customer-specific requirements.
Scalable discrete manufacturing ERP with advanced planning, MES integration, and plastics-specific quality management features.
Adaptive ERP for global plastics manufacturers focusing on supply chain visibility, production efficiency, and compliance.
Flexible mid-market ERP with customization for plastics processing, inventory control, and financials.
Shop floor-focused ERP for custom plastics job shops managing quoting, scheduling, and capacity planning.
ERP for make-to-order plastics shops with strong job costing, inventory, and shop floor control.
Cloud ERP with manufacturing edition supporting plastics production planning, procurement, and multi-location inventory.
Affordable cloud MRP/ERP for small plastics manufacturers streamlining production scheduling and stock management.
DELMIAworks
enterpriseIntegrated ERP and MES platform tailored for plastics manufacturers, especially injection molding, with real-time production monitoring and quality control.
Cavity-level mold tracking and real-time production monitoring, providing unparalleled precision for multi-cavity injection molding processes
DELMIAworks is a robust, industry-specific ERP platform tailored for discrete manufacturers, particularly excelling in plastics processing with modules for production planning, inventory management, quality control, and supply chain optimization. It provides real-time shop floor visibility through its integrated MES capabilities, enabling precise tracking of injection molding, extrusion, and thermoforming processes. Formerly known as IQMS EnterpriseIQ, it unifies financials, CRM, and compliance tools in a single-database architecture, streamlining operations for plastics firms from order to delivery.
Pros
- Comprehensive plastics-specific tools like cavity-level mold tracking, recipe management, and colorant blending
- Seamless real-time MES-ERP integration for shop floor control and predictive maintenance
- Scalable single-database platform supporting growth from SMB to enterprise-level plastics operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive customization options
- High implementation costs and time for full deployment
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-native ERPs
Best For
Mid-to-large plastics manufacturers needing deep process control, real-time production data, and end-to-end ERP integration for complex molding and extrusion operations.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $75,000+ annually for mid-sized deployments, including modules, users, and implementation services.
Plex
enterpriseCloud-native smart manufacturing ERP with specialized plastics modules for traceability, scheduling, and supply chain management.
Plex Production Monitor for live, actionable insights into manufacturing processes via IoT and analytics
Plex is a cloud-native ERP and MES platform tailored for smart manufacturing, offering real-time visibility across supply chain, production, inventory, and quality management. Specifically strong for the plastics industry, it supports complex processes like injection molding, extrusion, and thermoforming with IoT-enabled shop floor control and analytics. It integrates financials, CRM, and compliance tools to streamline operations and drive efficiency in plastics manufacturing.
Pros
- Real-time shop floor monitoring and IoT integration
- Seamless ERP/MES unification with plastics-specific modules
- Scalable cloud architecture with no hardware needs
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for smaller manufacturers
- Initial implementation requires significant setup time
- Customization options are somewhat limited compared to on-premise solutions
Best For
Mid-to-large plastics manufacturers seeking a comprehensive, real-time cloud ERP/MES for optimizing production and supply chain.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting around $25,000-$100,000 annually depending on company size, revenue, and modules selected.
Epicor Kinetic
enterpriseRobust ERP solution for plastics industry handling complex manufacturing processes, inventory, and customer-specific requirements.
Plastics Recipe Management for precise formulation control, color matching, and material yield optimization
Epicor Kinetic is a cloud-native ERP solution tailored for manufacturing industries, including plastics processing, providing comprehensive management of production workflows such as injection molding, extrusion, blow molding, and thermoforming. It integrates supply chain, inventory control for resins and additives, quality assurance, and financials with industry-specific tools for formula management, lot traceability, and color matching. Designed for scalability, it supports mid-to-enterprise manufacturers with real-time analytics and MES integration for optimized plastics operations.
Pros
- Robust plastics-specific features like recipe management, yield tracking, and multi-level BOMs for complex assemblies
- Scalable cloud platform with strong MES integration for real-time shop floor visibility
- Advanced analytics and reporting tailored to manufacturing KPIs
Cons
- Complex implementation process often requiring significant consulting time and cost
- Steep learning curve despite modern UI, especially for non-technical users
- High pricing that may not suit smaller plastics operations
Best For
Mid-sized to large plastics manufacturers needing scalable, industry-specific ERP with deep manufacturing and supply chain integration.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription pricing; typically $150-$300 per user/month plus implementation fees starting at $100,000+ depending on modules and scale.
Infor CloudSuite Industrial
enterpriseScalable discrete manufacturing ERP with advanced planning, MES integration, and plastics-specific quality management features.
Advanced Planning & Scheduling (APS) with plastics-optimized algorithms for mold lifecycle and multi-site production balancing
Infor CloudSuite Industrial is a cloud-based ERP solution tailored for discrete and mixed-mode manufacturers, including plastics producers, providing comprehensive management of production, supply chain, inventory, quality, and financials. It excels in handling complex make-to-order processes common in plastics like injection molding and extrusion, with tools for lot traceability, recipe management, and advanced scheduling. The platform offers real-time analytics and scalability to support growing plastics operations from shop floor to executive insights.
Pros
- Deep manufacturing functionality with plastics-specific tools like lot control and mold tracking
- Robust APS for optimizing complex production schedules
- Seamless integration via Infor ION for MES, CRM, and supply chain partners
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive customization options
- Higher implementation costs and time for mid-sized firms
- Interface can feel dated compared to modern SaaS ERPs
Best For
Mid-sized plastics manufacturers with complex, make-to-order production needing scalable ERP with strong shop floor control.
Pricing
Quote-based cloud subscription, typically $175-$300 per user/month depending on modules and scale.
QAD
enterpriseAdaptive ERP for global plastics manufacturers focusing on supply chain visibility, production efficiency, and compliance.
Process Definition Manager for precise recipe formulation and variant management in plastics production
QAD Adaptive ERP is a robust manufacturing-focused ERP solution designed for complex industries like plastics, offering end-to-end visibility from production planning to supply chain management. It supports plastics-specific processes such as injection molding, extrusion, recipe management, and quality control for materials like polymers and resins. The platform emphasizes adaptability, real-time analytics, and integration with shop floor systems to handle high-volume, repetitive manufacturing demands.
Pros
- Deep industry-specific modules for plastics manufacturing including recipe and batch management
- Scalable cloud deployment with strong global supply chain capabilities
- Excellent integration with MES and automation for shop floor efficiency
Cons
- Complex implementation requiring significant consulting resources
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Higher cost structure compared to general-purpose ERPs
Best For
Mid-to-large plastics manufacturers with complex, global operations needing tailored process manufacturing tools.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $100,000+ annually based on users and modules; subscription model.
SYSPRO
enterpriseFlexible mid-market ERP with customization for plastics processing, inventory control, and financials.
e.net customization engine allowing plastics firms to build industry-specific business rules and workflows without heavy coding
SYSPRO is a veteran ERP system tailored for manufacturing sectors, including plastics, providing end-to-end functionality from inventory control and production scheduling to financial management and CRM. It excels in supporting both discrete and process manufacturing workflows critical for plastics operations, such as batch processing, recipe management, and quality control. With robust customization options via its e.net framework, it enables plastics manufacturers to adapt the software to specific needs like mold tracking and material yield optimization.
Pros
- Highly customizable manufacturing modules for plastics-specific processes like batch tracing and formula management
- Strong scalability for multi-site plastics operations
- Excellent inventory visibility and demand planning tools
Cons
- Complex implementation and steep learning curve for non-technical users
- User interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-native ERPs
- Higher upfront costs and longer deployment times
Best For
Mid-sized plastics manufacturers needing deep customization and robust process manufacturing capabilities.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; perpetual licenses start around $100K+ with annual maintenance, or cloud subscriptions from $150-300/user/month depending on modules.
Global Shop Solutions
enterpriseShop floor-focused ERP for custom plastics job shops managing quoting, scheduling, and capacity planning.
Patented Intelligent Finite Scheduler with drag-and-drop rescheduling for handling variable plastics production constraints
Global Shop Solutions is a robust ERP/MES platform designed for discrete manufacturers, including plastics job shops, offering end-to-end functionality from quoting and order management to production scheduling and inventory control. It excels in real-time shop floor visibility and finite capacity scheduling, helping plastics manufacturers manage complex make-to-order processes like injection molding and extrusion. The system integrates accounting, quality management, and CRM, providing a single database for streamlined operations.
Pros
- Advanced finite capacity scheduling for optimized plastics production
- Comprehensive integration of ERP, MES, and accounting modules
- Real-time shop floor data capture and reporting
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- High upfront implementation and customization costs
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud ERPs
Best For
Mid-sized plastics job shops and make-to-order manufacturers requiring powerful scheduling and shop floor control over ease of deployment.
Pricing
Quote-based perpetual licensing starting around $1,000 per user plus $50,000+ implementation; annual maintenance ~20% of license fee.
JobBOSS²
enterpriseERP for make-to-order plastics shops with strong job costing, inventory, and shop floor control.
Advanced job traveler and capacity planning for complex, multi-process plastics jobs
JobBOSS² by ECI Software Solutions is a robust ERP platform tailored for make-to-order manufacturers, including plastics job shops, handling everything from quoting and order management to production scheduling, inventory control, and accounting. It excels in job costing and tracking for custom plastics fabrication processes like injection molding and extrusion. The software integrates CRM, purchasing, quality management, and financials to streamline operations in dynamic shop environments.
Pros
- Precise job costing and multi-level BOM support ideal for custom plastics production
- Integrated accounting and real-time shop floor visibility
- Customizable workflows and reporting for shop-specific needs
Cons
- Steep learning curve and dated interface requiring training
- Implementation can be lengthy and costly
- Limited advanced plastics-specific tools like resin lot traceability
Best For
Mid-sized plastics job shops focused on custom make-to-order manufacturing needing strong job tracking and cost control.
Pricing
Quote-based SaaS pricing, typically $150-$250 per user per month plus implementation fees starting at $10,000+.
Oracle NetSuite
enterpriseCloud ERP with manufacturing edition supporting plastics production planning, procurement, and multi-location inventory.
SuitePromotions and advanced MRP for precise demand forecasting and production scheduling in complex plastics manufacturing environments
Oracle NetSuite is a comprehensive cloud-based ERP platform that unifies financial management, inventory control, manufacturing, CRM, and supply chain operations into a single system. For plastics ERP, it supports key processes like bill of materials management, work order processing, lot and serial traceability, demand planning, and quality management, making it suitable for discrete and process manufacturing in the plastics industry. While highly scalable and customizable via SuiteApps and scripting, it requires configuration to fully address plastics-specific needs such as resin compounding, mold tracking, and extrusion scheduling.
Pros
- Scalable cloud architecture with real-time visibility across global operations
- Strong inventory and manufacturing modules supporting lot traceability and MRP for plastics production
- Extensive ecosystem of pre-built apps and integrations for customization
Cons
- High implementation costs and complexity, often requiring consultants
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Premium pricing may not suit smaller plastics firms without heavy utilization
Best For
Mid-sized to large plastics manufacturers needing an integrated, enterprise-grade ERP with robust financials and multi-location support.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing; typically $10,000+ per month for full ERP suites (base + users), plus one-time implementation fees of $50,000-$500,000 depending on scope.
MRPeasy
specializedAffordable cloud MRP/ERP for small plastics manufacturers streamlining production scheduling and stock management.
Visual drag-and-drop scheduling board that optimizes production sequences for plastics jobs, minimizing setup times between mold changes.
MRPeasy is a cloud-based ERP and manufacturing software tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, providing tools for production planning, inventory management, CRM, and procurement. For plastics manufacturers, it supports multi-level BOMs for complex assemblies like molded parts, real-time shop floor tracking for injection molding or extrusion processes, and material requirements planning to manage resins, additives, and molds efficiently. While not deeply specialized in plastics-specific processes like recipe formulation or rheology control, it delivers solid operational ERP capabilities with a focus on lean manufacturing.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop production scheduling ideal for variable plastics runs
- Real-time inventory tracking reduces stockouts of raw materials like polymers
- Affordable cloud deployment with mobile access for shop floor teams
- Strong support for make-to-order workflows common in custom plastics
Cons
- Lacks advanced plastics-specific modules like batch recipe management or color formulation
- Limited customization for complex traceability in regulated plastics production
- Reporting tools are basic compared to enterprise plastics ERPs
- Scalability challenges for high-volume plastics operations
Best For
Small to medium plastics manufacturers handling discrete processes like injection molding or thermoforming with make-to-order needs.
Pricing
Starts at $49/user/month (Basic), $99/user/month (Standard with advanced scheduling), and custom enterprise plans; no setup fees, month-to-month billing available.
Conclusion
The reviewed plastics ERP tools present a range of solutions for diverse operational needs, from large-scale manufacturing to small job shops, each with distinct strengths. At the forefront is DELMIAworks, a standout choice for its integrated ERP and MES platform, particularly well-suited for injection molding with real-time production monitoring and quality control. Plex and Epicor Kinetic closely follow, offering robust options for cloud-native smart manufacturing and managing complex processes, respectively.
Discover the tailored capabilities of DELMIAworks to optimize your plastics production and operational efficiency.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
