Quick Overview
- 1#1: Plex - Cloud-native MES platform providing real-time shop floor visibility, quality control, and production management for manufacturers.
- 2#2: Epicor MES - Integrated manufacturing execution system for shop floor scheduling, tracking, and performance monitoring within Epicor ERP.
- 3#3: DELMIAworks - Comprehensive ERP/MES solution offering real-time shop floor control, inventory tracking, and quality management for discrete manufacturers.
- 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: Siemens Opcenter Execution - Advanced MES software delivering digital thread connectivity and real-time shop floor operations management.
- 6#6: Rockwell FactoryTalk ProductionCentre - Industrial automation suite with MES capabilities for shop floor monitoring, OEE improvement, and production execution.
- 7#7: MRPeasy - Cloud MRP software tailored for small manufacturers with shop floor scheduling, tracking, and material planning features.
- 8#8: Katana MRP - Visual production planning and shop floor management tool for make-to-order and job shop manufacturers.
- 9#9: Prodio - Real-time shop floor scheduling and execution software designed to boost productivity in small to medium manufacturers.
- 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.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Plex Cloud-native MES platform providing real-time shop floor visibility, quality control, and production management for manufacturers. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Epicor MES Integrated manufacturing execution system for shop floor scheduling, tracking, and performance monitoring within Epicor ERP. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 3 | DELMIAworks Comprehensive ERP/MES solution offering real-time shop floor control, inventory tracking, and quality management for discrete manufacturers. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | SAP Digital Manufacturing Enterprise-grade cloud MES for end-to-end shop floor execution, insights, and orchestration integrated with SAP systems. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | Siemens Opcenter Execution Advanced MES software delivering digital thread connectivity and real-time shop floor operations management. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Rockwell FactoryTalk ProductionCentre Industrial automation suite with MES capabilities for shop floor monitoring, OEE improvement, and production execution. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | MRPeasy Cloud MRP software tailored for small manufacturers with shop floor scheduling, tracking, and material planning features. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 8 | Katana MRP Visual production planning and shop floor management tool for make-to-order and job shop manufacturers. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 9 | Prodio Real-time shop floor scheduling and execution software designed to boost productivity in small to medium manufacturers. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 10 | Tulip No-code platform for building custom shop floor apps to capture data, guide operators, and improve frontline operations. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
Cloud-native MES platform providing real-time shop floor visibility, quality control, and production management for manufacturers.
Integrated manufacturing execution system for shop floor scheduling, tracking, and performance monitoring within Epicor ERP.
Comprehensive ERP/MES solution offering real-time shop floor control, inventory tracking, and quality management for discrete manufacturers.
Enterprise-grade cloud MES for end-to-end shop floor execution, insights, and orchestration integrated with SAP systems.
Advanced MES software delivering digital thread connectivity and real-time shop floor operations management.
Industrial automation suite with MES capabilities for shop floor monitoring, OEE improvement, and production execution.
Cloud MRP software tailored for small manufacturers with shop floor scheduling, tracking, and material planning features.
Visual production planning and shop floor management tool for make-to-order and job shop manufacturers.
Real-time shop floor scheduling and execution software designed to boost productivity in small to medium manufacturers.
No-code platform for building custom shop floor apps to capture data, guide operators, and improve frontline operations.
Plex
enterpriseCloud-native MES platform providing real-time shop floor visibility, quality control, and production management for manufacturers.
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.
Epicor MES
enterpriseIntegrated manufacturing execution system for shop floor scheduling, tracking, and performance monitoring within Epicor ERP.
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.
DELMIAworks
enterpriseComprehensive ERP/MES solution offering real-time shop floor control, inventory tracking, and quality management for discrete manufacturers.
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.
SAP Digital Manufacturing
enterpriseEnterprise-grade cloud MES for end-to-end shop floor execution, insights, and orchestration integrated with SAP systems.
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.
Siemens Opcenter Execution
enterpriseAdvanced MES software delivering digital thread connectivity and real-time shop floor operations management.
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.
Rockwell FactoryTalk ProductionCentre
enterpriseIndustrial automation suite with MES capabilities for shop floor monitoring, OEE improvement, and production execution.
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.
MRPeasy
specializedCloud MRP software tailored for small manufacturers with shop floor scheduling, tracking, and material planning features.
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.
Katana MRP
specializedVisual production planning and shop floor management tool for make-to-order and job shop manufacturers.
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.
Prodio
specializedReal-time shop floor scheduling and execution software designed to boost productivity in small to medium manufacturers.
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.
Tulip
specializedNo-code platform for building custom shop floor apps to capture data, guide operators, and improve frontline operations.
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.
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.
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.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
