GITNUXBEST LIST

Manufacturing Engineering

Top 10 Best Shop Floor Management Software of 2026

Discover tools to optimize shop floor operations. Find the best management software fit for your needs today.

Rajesh Patel

Rajesh Patel

Feb 11, 2026

10 tools comparedExpert reviewed
Independent evaluation · Unbiased commentary · Updated regularly
Learn more
Shop floor management software is essential for manufacturers aiming to boost productivity, uphold quality, and optimize operational efficiency amid evolving industry demands. With a wide range of options—from cloud-native platforms to ERP-integrated systems and no-code tools—choosing the right solution is key to aligning technology with specific business and manufacturing needs; our curated list below identifies the top 10 tools leading in this space.

Quick Overview

  1. 1#1: Plex - Cloud-native MES platform providing real-time shop floor visibility, quality control, and production management for manufacturers.
  2. 2#2: Epicor MES - Integrated manufacturing execution system for shop floor scheduling, tracking, and performance monitoring within Epicor ERP.
  3. 3#3: DELMIAworks - Comprehensive ERP/MES solution offering real-time shop floor control, inventory tracking, and quality management for discrete manufacturers.
  4. 4#4: SAP Digital Manufacturing - Enterprise-grade cloud MES for end-to-end shop floor execution, insights, and orchestration integrated with SAP systems.
  5. 5#5: Siemens Opcenter Execution - Advanced MES software delivering digital thread connectivity and real-time shop floor operations management.
  6. 6#6: Rockwell FactoryTalk ProductionCentre - Industrial automation suite with MES capabilities for shop floor monitoring, OEE improvement, and production execution.
  7. 7#7: MRPeasy - Cloud MRP software tailored for small manufacturers with shop floor scheduling, tracking, and material planning features.
  8. 8#8: Katana MRP - Visual production planning and shop floor management tool for make-to-order and job shop manufacturers.
  9. 9#9: Prodio - Real-time shop floor scheduling and execution software designed to boost productivity in small to medium manufacturers.
  10. 10#10: Tulip - No-code platform for building custom shop floor apps to capture data, guide operators, and improve frontline operations.

These tools were selected based on a thorough assessment of functionality (such as real-time visibility, scheduling, and quality management), integration capabilities, user-friendliness, and overall value, ensuring they deliver robust, versatile solutions for diverse manufacturing environments.

Comparison Table

Shop floor management software is vital for modern manufacturing, optimizing workflows and boosting operational efficiency. This comparison table breaks down leading tools—such as Plex, Epicor MES, DELMIAworks, SAP Digital Manufacturing, and Siemens Opcenter Execution—to help readers understand key features, capabilities, and suitability for diverse production needs.

1Plex logo9.5/10

Cloud-native MES platform providing real-time shop floor visibility, quality control, and production management for manufacturers.

Features
9.8/10
Ease
8.7/10
Value
9.2/10
2Epicor MES logo8.7/10

Integrated manufacturing execution system for shop floor scheduling, tracking, and performance monitoring within Epicor ERP.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
7.8/10
Value
8.1/10

Comprehensive ERP/MES solution offering real-time shop floor control, inventory tracking, and quality management for discrete manufacturers.

Features
9.3/10
Ease
7.8/10
Value
8.2/10

Enterprise-grade cloud MES for end-to-end shop floor execution, insights, and orchestration integrated with SAP systems.

Features
9.1/10
Ease
7.2/10
Value
7.8/10

Advanced MES software delivering digital thread connectivity and real-time shop floor operations management.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
7.4/10
Value
8.0/10

Industrial automation suite with MES capabilities for shop floor monitoring, OEE improvement, and production execution.

Features
9.1/10
Ease
7.0/10
Value
7.8/10
7MRPeasy logo8.2/10

Cloud MRP software tailored for small manufacturers with shop floor scheduling, tracking, and material planning features.

Features
8.0/10
Ease
9.0/10
Value
8.5/10
8Katana MRP logo8.1/10

Visual production planning and shop floor management tool for make-to-order and job shop manufacturers.

Features
8.0/10
Ease
9.2/10
Value
8.3/10
9Prodio logo8.2/10

Real-time shop floor scheduling and execution software designed to boost productivity in small to medium manufacturers.

Features
8.0/10
Ease
9.2/10
Value
8.5/10
10Tulip logo8.2/10

No-code platform for building custom shop floor apps to capture data, guide operators, and improve frontline operations.

Features
8.5/10
Ease
9.0/10
Value
7.5/10
1
Plex logo

Plex

enterprise

Cloud-native MES platform providing real-time shop floor visibility, quality control, and production management for manufacturers.

Overall Rating9.5/10
Features
9.8/10
Ease of Use
8.7/10
Value
9.2/10
Standout Feature

Connected Worker mobile app for real-time task execution, instructions, and feedback directly on the shop floor

Plex is a cloud-native smart manufacturing platform that serves as a comprehensive MES and ERP solution, providing real-time visibility and control over shop floor operations. It enables manufacturers to track production, manage inventory, ensure quality compliance, and optimize processes through connected worker tools and machine integration. Designed for scalability, Plex unifies data across the enterprise to drive efficiency and digital transformation in manufacturing environments.

Pros

  • Real-time shop floor visibility and data capture from machines and operators
  • Seamless integration of MES, ERP, QMS, and supply chain modules
  • Highly scalable cloud architecture with strong industry-specific compliance (e.g., automotive, aerospace)

Cons

  • Steep initial learning curve for complex implementations
  • Pricing can be high for small manufacturers
  • Customization requires partner involvement for advanced needs

Best For

Mid-sized to large manufacturers in regulated industries seeking an all-in-one, cloud-based platform for end-to-end shop floor and enterprise management.

Pricing

Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $10,000+ annually depending on modules, users, and scale, with SaaS subscription model.

Visit Plexplex.com
2
Epicor MES logo

Epicor MES

enterprise

Integrated manufacturing execution system for shop floor scheduling, tracking, and performance monitoring within Epicor ERP.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
7.8/10
Value
8.1/10
Standout Feature

Integrated real-time production intelligence with MTConnect/OPC machine connectivity for precise downtime and OEE tracking

Epicor MES is a robust manufacturing execution system that delivers real-time visibility and control over shop floor operations, integrating seamlessly with the Epicor ERP platform. It enables efficient production scheduling, work order management, machine monitoring, labor tracking, and quality control to optimize manufacturing processes. The software supports data collection via standards like MTConnect and OPC, providing actionable insights for performance improvement and lean manufacturing.

Pros

  • Seamless integration with Epicor ERP for end-to-end visibility
  • Real-time machine monitoring and OEE analytics
  • Strong quality management and traceability tools

Cons

  • Steep learning curve and complex implementation
  • Premium pricing limits accessibility for small shops
  • Optimal performance requires Epicor ecosystem commitment

Best For

Mid-to-large discrete manufacturers using Epicor ERP who need advanced real-time shop floor control and analytics.

Pricing

Custom quote-based pricing; modular subscriptions starting around $200/user/month for enterprise deployments.

3
DELMIAworks logo

DELMIAworks

enterprise

Comprehensive ERP/MES solution offering real-time shop floor control, inventory tracking, and quality management for discrete manufacturers.

Overall Rating8.8/10
Features
9.3/10
Ease of Use
7.8/10
Value
8.2/10
Standout Feature

Real-time Visual Scheduler with drag-and-drop interface for dynamic production planning and capacity optimization

DELMIAworks, formerly IQMS, is a comprehensive ERP/MES platform designed for manufacturing operations, offering robust shop floor management tools for real-time production monitoring, scheduling, and execution. It enables seamless data collection from machines, operators, and quality stations, providing end-to-end visibility into shop floor activities. The software supports discrete, repetitive, and mixed-mode manufacturing with features like capacity planning, labor tracking, and maintenance management.

Pros

  • Deep integration of MES with full ERP for holistic manufacturing control
  • Real-time shop floor data capture from CNC machines and IoT devices
  • Advanced scheduling, quality management, and traceability tools

Cons

  • Steep implementation timeline and costs due to complexity
  • Learning curve for non-technical shop floor users
  • Pricing can be prohibitive for very small operations

Best For

Mid-sized discrete and repetitive manufacturers seeking an integrated ERP/MES for scalable shop floor operations.

Pricing

Quote-based, modular licensing typically starting at $20,000-$100,000+ annually based on users, modules, and deployment scale.

Visit DELMIAworksdelmiaworks.com
4
SAP Digital Manufacturing logo

SAP Digital Manufacturing

enterprise

Enterprise-grade cloud MES for end-to-end shop floor execution, insights, and orchestration integrated with SAP systems.

Overall Rating8.4/10
Features
9.1/10
Ease of Use
7.2/10
Value
7.8/10
Standout Feature

Unified Operations Control Tower for real-time cross-plant visibility and proactive issue resolution

SAP Digital Manufacturing is a cloud-based Manufacturing Execution System (MES) designed to provide real-time visibility and control over shop floor operations. It enables digital work instructions, production orchestration, quality management, and performance analytics, integrating seamlessly with SAP S/4HANA and IoT devices. The platform supports end-to-end manufacturing execution, from planning to traceability, helping enterprises optimize OEE and reduce downtime.

Pros

  • Deep integration with SAP ERP and supply chain systems for unified data flow
  • Advanced AI-driven insights and real-time shop floor analytics
  • Scalable for global enterprises with multi-site support and IoT connectivity

Cons

  • Steep learning curve and complex initial setup requiring SAP expertise
  • High implementation costs and long deployment timelines
  • Less ideal for small to mid-sized manufacturers due to enterprise focus

Best For

Large-scale manufacturers already invested in the SAP ecosystem seeking enterprise-grade shop floor orchestration.

Pricing

Custom enterprise licensing; typically subscription-based starting at $100-200 per user/month plus implementation fees—contact SAP for quotes.

5
Siemens Opcenter Execution logo

Siemens Opcenter Execution

enterprise

Advanced MES software delivering digital thread connectivity and real-time shop floor operations management.

Overall Rating8.5/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
7.4/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

Closed-loop integration with Siemens SIMATIC automation hardware for real-time machine control and data exchange

Siemens Opcenter Execution is a robust Manufacturing Execution System (MES) tailored for shop floor management in discrete, process, and hybrid manufacturing environments. It delivers real-time production monitoring, dispatching, quality control, and traceability to streamline operations and ensure compliance. The software excels in integrating with Siemens' PLM, ERP, and automation systems for end-to-end visibility and control.

Pros

  • Comprehensive MES functionalities including real-time dispatching and genealogy tracking
  • Seamless integration with Siemens ecosystem for automation and PLM
  • Strong compliance and quality management tools for regulated industries

Cons

  • Complex implementation requiring significant customization and expertise
  • Steep learning curve for users without prior MES experience
  • High upfront costs limiting accessibility for smaller manufacturers

Best For

Large-scale manufacturing enterprises in regulated industries needing deep integration with Siemens automation and PLM systems.

Pricing

Enterprise-level custom pricing; typically involves high six-to-seven-figure implementation costs plus annual subscriptions starting at $100K+ depending on scale.

6
Rockwell FactoryTalk ProductionCentre logo

Rockwell FactoryTalk ProductionCentre

enterprise

Industrial automation suite with MES capabilities for shop floor monitoring, OEE improvement, and production execution.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
9.1/10
Ease of Use
7.0/10
Value
7.8/10
Standout Feature

Native, real-time integration with Rockwell PLCs and FactoryTalk suite for plug-and-play automation data flow without custom middleware

Rockwell FactoryTalk ProductionCentre is a robust Manufacturing Execution System (MES) tailored for shop floor management in discrete and process manufacturing environments. It provides real-time production monitoring, OEE tracking, downtime analysis, labor management, and quality control through seamless integration with Rockwell Automation hardware like PLCs. The software enables centralized data collection, genealogy, and compliance reporting to optimize operational efficiency and reduce waste.

Pros

  • Deep integration with Rockwell PLCs and FactoryTalk ecosystem for real-time data acquisition
  • Comprehensive OEE, downtime, and production analytics tools
  • Scalable for enterprise-wide deployments with strong genealogy and compliance features

Cons

  • Steep learning curve and complex initial setup requiring specialized expertise
  • High implementation and licensing costs
  • Less intuitive interface compared to modern cloud-native alternatives

Best For

Large-scale manufacturers deeply invested in Rockwell Automation hardware seeking integrated MES for complex shop floor operations.

Pricing

Quote-based enterprise licensing, typically starting at $50,000+ annually depending on modules, users, and scale, with perpetual options available.

7
MRPeasy logo

MRPeasy

specialized

Cloud MRP software tailored for small manufacturers with shop floor scheduling, tracking, and material planning features.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
8.0/10
Ease of Use
9.0/10
Value
8.5/10
Standout Feature

Mobile-first shop floor execution with QR code scanning for tasks and real-time clock-in/out tracking

MRPeasy is a cloud-based MRP/ERP software designed for small to medium-sized manufacturers, offering robust shop floor management tools including production scheduling, real-time tracking, and work order execution. It provides digital work instructions, employee time tracking via mobile apps, and visual dashboards for monitoring shop floor operations. The system emphasizes efficiency in make-to-order and make-to-stock environments, integrating inventory and production seamlessly.

Pros

  • Intuitive interface with mobile app for shop floor workers
  • Real-time production visibility and drag-and-drop scheduling
  • Affordable pricing suitable for SMEs

Cons

  • Limited advanced MES features for complex operations
  • Customization options are somewhat restricted
  • Reporting and analytics could be more sophisticated

Best For

Small to medium-sized discrete manufacturers seeking user-friendly shop floor control without high costs.

Pricing

Starts at $49 per user/month (minimum 5 users), with Standard and Enterprise tiers up to $99+ per user/month.

Visit MRPeasymrpeasy.com
8
Katana MRP logo

Katana MRP

specialized

Visual production planning and shop floor management tool for make-to-order and job shop manufacturers.

Overall Rating8.1/10
Features
8.0/10
Ease of Use
9.2/10
Value
8.3/10
Standout Feature

Color-coded visual production scheduler for instant shop floor status at a glance

Katana MRP is a cloud-based manufacturing resource planning (MRP) software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers, focusing on inventory control, production scheduling, and shop floor execution. It enables digital work orders, real-time tracking of production progress, and capacity planning to streamline shop floor operations. The platform integrates seamlessly with e-commerce, accounting, and CRM tools, providing end-to-end visibility from sales orders to fulfillment.

Pros

  • Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling for quick shop floor planning
  • Real-time production and inventory tracking reduces errors
  • Seamless integrations with QuickBooks, Shopify, and Xero

Cons

  • Limited advanced MES features like machine downtime or OEE tracking
  • Reporting and analytics lack depth for complex operations
  • Scalability issues for high-volume or multi-site manufacturers

Best For

Small to medium-sized make-to-order manufacturers needing simple, visual shop floor management without heavy customization.

Pricing

Starts at $99/month (Essentials, up to 100 orders), $299/month (Professional), $799+/month (Enterprise); billed annually with per-user add-ons.

Visit Katana MRPkatanamrp.com
9
Prodio logo

Prodio

specialized

Real-time shop floor scheduling and execution software designed to boost productivity in small to medium manufacturers.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
8.0/10
Ease of Use
9.2/10
Value
8.5/10
Standout Feature

Tablet-based operator terminals for instant job clocking and downtime logging on any iPad or Android device

Prodio is a cloud-based shop floor management software tailored for small to medium-sized make-to-order manufacturers. It enables real-time job tracking, scheduling, and performance monitoring through intuitive operator terminals on tablets. The platform reduces paperwork, improves visibility into KPIs like OEE and downtime, and supports lean manufacturing practices without requiring specialized hardware.

Pros

  • Quick setup with no hardware needed, deployable in days
  • Intuitive operator interfaces for easy adoption
  • Strong focus on real-time KPIs and lean tools

Cons

  • Limited advanced analytics for complex enterprises
  • Scalability constraints for shops over 50 operators
  • Basic ERP integrations compared to larger platforms

Best For

Small to medium make-to-order manufacturers looking for an affordable, easy-to-implement solution to digitize shop floor operations.

Pricing

Starts at $49/operator/month (minimum 5 operators, $245/month), with annual billing discounts and tiered plans up to enterprise levels.

Visit Prodioprodio.io
10
Tulip logo

Tulip

specialized

No-code platform for building custom shop floor apps to capture data, guide operators, and improve frontline operations.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
8.5/10
Ease of Use
9.0/10
Value
7.5/10
Standout Feature

No-code app builder with edge computing for rapid deployment of tailored shop floor applications

Tulip (tulip.co) is a no-code platform that enables manufacturers to build and deploy custom apps for shop floor operations, focusing on real-time data collection, quality control, and worker guidance. It connects directly to machines, sensors, and PLCs via edge computing to provide actionable insights and streamline manufacturing execution. Ideal for digital transformation, it supports tasks like assembly instructions, defect tracking, and performance analytics without traditional coding.

Pros

  • No-code drag-and-drop app builder accelerates custom shop floor solutions
  • Robust edge integrations with industrial hardware for real-time data
  • Strong analytics and traceability for quality and efficiency improvements

Cons

  • Enterprise pricing may deter small manufacturers
  • Custom app development requires upfront time investment
  • Less comprehensive out-of-the-box MES functionality than dedicated systems

Best For

Mid-sized manufacturers needing flexible, no-code tools to digitize and customize shop floor workflows without heavy IT involvement.

Pricing

Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $2,000–$5,000/month based on stations, apps, and scale.

Visit Tuliptulip.co

Conclusion

Evaluating the diverse landscape of shop floor management tools, the top choice emerges as Plex, a cloud-native solution offering robust real-time visibility and integrated production management. While Plex leads, Epicor MES and DELMIAworks stand out as exceptional alternatives—Epicor for seamless ERP integration, and DELMIAworks for precise discrete manufacturing control. Each tool addresses unique operational needs, ensuring there’s a tailored fit for businesses of all sizes. Together, they showcase how technology can elevate shop floor efficiency and drive growth.

Plex logo
Our Top Pick
Plex

To unlock enhanced production capabilities, start with Plex—its intuitive design and real-time insights can transform your daily operations, boosting productivity and streamlining workflows.