Quick Overview
- 1#1: Plex - Cloud-native MES and ERP platform providing real-time shop floor visibility, production scheduling, and quality management for manufacturers.
- 2#2: Epicor Kinetic - Comprehensive ERP system with advanced shop floor control, scheduling, traceability, and MES integration for discrete manufacturing.
- 3#3: DELMIAworks - Integrated ERP and MES solution offering real-time shop floor monitoring, inventory control, and production execution for mid-sized manufacturers.
- 4#4: Prodsmart - Real-time shop floor management software that tracks production, labor, and materials via mobile devices for improved efficiency.
- 5#5: MachineMetrics - Machine monitoring platform delivering real-time data analytics and OEE insights to optimize shop floor performance.
- 6#6: Tulip - No-code platform for building custom frontline apps to streamline shop floor operations, quality checks, and assembly processes.
- 7#7: MRPeasy - Cloud-based MRP system for small manufacturers managing production planning, shop floor scheduling, and inventory tracking.
- 8#8: Katana - Real-time MRP software that handles manufacturing orders, shop floor execution, and live inventory for SMBs.
- 9#9: Fishbowl - Inventory management software with manufacturing modules for work orders, shop floor tracking, and QuickBooks integration.
- 10#10: ProShop - ERP and shop management system tailored for job shops with production control, quality management, and shop floor dispatching.
We prioritized tools based on core capabilities like real-time visibility, integration flexibility, and user experience, paired with overall quality, scalability, and value to ensure relevance across diverse manufacturing scenarios.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines leading shop floor manufacturing software tools, including Plex, Epicor Kinetic, DELMIAworks, Prodsmart, MachineMetrics, and more, to guide users in evaluating options for their unique operational needs. It breaks down key features, usability, and industry focus, helping readers identify software that enhances efficiency and coordination in production environments.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Plex Cloud-native MES and ERP platform providing real-time shop floor visibility, production scheduling, and quality management for manufacturers. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 2 | Epicor Kinetic Comprehensive ERP system with advanced shop floor control, scheduling, traceability, and MES integration for discrete manufacturing. | enterprise | 8.9/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | DELMIAworks Integrated ERP and MES solution offering real-time shop floor monitoring, inventory control, and production execution for mid-sized manufacturers. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | Prodsmart Real-time shop floor management software that tracks production, labor, and materials via mobile devices for improved efficiency. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 5 | MachineMetrics Machine monitoring platform delivering real-time data analytics and OEE insights to optimize shop floor performance. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | Tulip No-code platform for building custom frontline apps to streamline shop floor operations, quality checks, and assembly processes. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | MRPeasy Cloud-based MRP system for small manufacturers managing production planning, shop floor scheduling, and inventory tracking. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 8 | Katana Real-time MRP software that handles manufacturing orders, shop floor execution, and live inventory for SMBs. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 9 | Fishbowl Inventory management software with manufacturing modules for work orders, shop floor tracking, and QuickBooks integration. | other | 7.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 6.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | ProShop ERP and shop management system tailored for job shops with production control, quality management, and shop floor dispatching. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
Cloud-native MES and ERP platform providing real-time shop floor visibility, production scheduling, and quality management for manufacturers.
Comprehensive ERP system with advanced shop floor control, scheduling, traceability, and MES integration for discrete manufacturing.
Integrated ERP and MES solution offering real-time shop floor monitoring, inventory control, and production execution for mid-sized manufacturers.
Real-time shop floor management software that tracks production, labor, and materials via mobile devices for improved efficiency.
Machine monitoring platform delivering real-time data analytics and OEE insights to optimize shop floor performance.
No-code platform for building custom frontline apps to streamline shop floor operations, quality checks, and assembly processes.
Cloud-based MRP system for small manufacturers managing production planning, shop floor scheduling, and inventory tracking.
Real-time MRP software that handles manufacturing orders, shop floor execution, and live inventory for SMBs.
Inventory management software with manufacturing modules for work orders, shop floor tracking, and QuickBooks integration.
ERP and shop management system tailored for job shops with production control, quality management, and shop floor dispatching.
Plex
enterpriseCloud-native MES and ERP platform providing real-time shop floor visibility, production scheduling, and quality management for manufacturers.
Plex Machine Monitoring with plug-and-play IoT integrations for real-time OEE, downtime, and production data capture directly from shop floor equipment.
Plex is a cloud-native Manufacturing Execution System (MES) and ERP platform designed specifically for shop floor management in discrete manufacturing environments. It provides real-time visibility into production processes, machine performance, quality control, and inventory through seamless integration with shop floor equipment and operators. Plex enables manufacturers to optimize operations, reduce downtime, ensure compliance, and drive continuous improvement with data-driven insights across the entire production lifecycle.
Pros
- Real-time shop floor monitoring and machine connectivity for instant visibility
- Comprehensive suite of MES, ERP, QMS, and SCM modules tailored for manufacturing
- Scalable cloud architecture with strong mobile and IoT integrations
Cons
- High implementation costs and timelines for complex setups
- Steep learning curve for non-standard manufacturing processes
- Pricing can be opaque and premium for smaller operations
Best For
Mid-to-large discrete manufacturers in automotive, aerospace, and electronics seeking an all-in-one cloud MES/ERP for end-to-end shop floor control.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing based on users, production volume, and modules; typically starts at $100-$300 per user/month with enterprise deals in the six figures annually.
Epicor Kinetic
enterpriseComprehensive ERP system with advanced shop floor control, scheduling, traceability, and MES integration for discrete manufacturing.
Kinetic Shop Floor mobile app for touch-enabled, real-time job dispatch and data capture on the production floor
Epicor Kinetic is a cloud-native ERP platform tailored for manufacturing, delivering robust shop floor management through its integrated MES capabilities. It enables real-time tracking of production orders, machine utilization, labor efficiency, and quality metrics directly from the shop floor. The software supports discrete, process, and mixed-mode manufacturing with tools for scheduling, dispatching, and performance analysis to streamline operations and reduce waste.
Pros
- Comprehensive MES integration for end-to-end shop floor visibility and control
- Real-time analytics and dashboards for production optimization
- Scalable architecture supporting multi-site manufacturing operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve for initial setup and customization
- Higher pricing suitable mainly for mid-to-large enterprises
- Occasional performance lags in highly customized deployments
Best For
Mid-sized to large manufacturers needing an all-in-one ERP with advanced shop floor execution and real-time insights.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing, typically starting at $175/user/month for cloud subscriptions, scaling with modules, users, and deployment size.
DELMIAworks
enterpriseIntegrated ERP and MES solution offering real-time shop floor monitoring, inventory control, and production execution for mid-sized manufacturers.
Native integration of advanced MES with full ERP functionality for real-time shop floor execution without third-party add-ons
DELMIAworks, formerly IQMS EnterpriseIQ, is a comprehensive ERP and MES platform tailored for shop floor manufacturing, offering real-time production monitoring, scheduling, and execution control. It integrates IIoT for machine data collection, quality management, and traceability to optimize discrete, repetitive, and process manufacturing operations. The software provides end-to-end visibility from shop floor to enterprise, helping reduce downtime and improve efficiency.
Pros
- Fully integrated ERP and MES for seamless shop floor-to-enterprise operations
- Real-time IIoT connectivity and data capture for production insights
- Robust quality control and traceability tools
Cons
- Complex implementation and customization process
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Higher cost for smaller manufacturers
Best For
Mid-to-large discrete manufacturers needing an all-in-one ERP/MES solution for complex shop floor operations.
Pricing
Quote-based; subscription or perpetual licenses starting at $50,000+ annually, depending on modules, users, and deployment.
Prodsmart
specializedReal-time shop floor management software that tracks production, labor, and materials via mobile devices for improved efficiency.
Interactive live Gantt charts for real-time scheduling and bottleneck detection
Prodsmart is a cloud-based Manufacturing Execution System (MES) designed for shop floor management, offering real-time visibility into production processes, OEE tracking, and operator performance. It enables dynamic scheduling, inventory control, quality checks, and traceability through an intuitive mobile-first interface. Ideal for make-to-order and custom manufacturers, it bridges the gap between ERP systems and the shop floor with minimal setup.
Pros
- Real-time production monitoring and OEE dashboards
- Mobile app for seamless operator data entry
- Quick deployment with low IT overhead
Cons
- Limited advanced customization for complex workflows
- Reporting lacks depth compared to enterprise MES
- Integrations may require additional configuration
Best For
Small to medium manufacturers focused on real-time shop floor execution and agility in custom or job-shop environments.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription; starts around $99/user/month for basic plans, scaling with features and users.
MachineMetrics
specializedMachine monitoring platform delivering real-time data analytics and OEE insights to optimize shop floor performance.
EdgeConnect plug-and-play hardware for zero-configuration machine connectivity
MachineMetrics is a cloud-based platform specializing in real-time machine monitoring and analytics for shop floor manufacturing, capturing data from CNC machines and other equipment via protocols like MTConnect and MQTT. It delivers actionable insights on OEE, downtime, cycle times, and production performance through customizable dashboards and mobile apps. The software helps manufacturers identify bottlenecks, optimize schedules, and drive continuous improvement without extensive IT involvement.
Pros
- Robust real-time data collection and OEE tracking
- Intuitive dashboards with prescriptive alerts
- Strong integrations with ERP/MES systems like SAP and Epicor
Cons
- Hardware (EdgeConnect) often required for legacy machines
- Pricing scales quickly with machine count
- Steeper learning curve for advanced custom analytics
Best For
Mid-sized discrete manufacturers with CNC-heavy operations aiming to improve shop floor visibility and throughput.
Pricing
Custom quote-based; typically $75-$150 per machine per month, plus optional hardware fees.
Tulip
specializedNo-code platform for building custom frontline apps to streamline shop floor operations, quality checks, and assembly processes.
No-code app builder with edge computing for offline-capable, low-latency shop floor apps
Tulip is a no-code platform designed for manufacturing teams to rapidly build and deploy custom apps for the shop floor, enabling connected workers to access work instructions, perform quality checks, and collect real-time data from machines. It integrates with PLCs, sensors, and enterprise systems like ERP and MES to support digital transformation without traditional coding. The platform emphasizes edge computing for low-latency operations and provides analytics for continuous improvement in discrete manufacturing environments.
Pros
- Highly flexible no-code app builder for quick customization
- Strong integrations with shop floor hardware and enterprise software
- Real-time data capture and analytics for operators
Cons
- Enterprise-level pricing may be steep for small manufacturers
- Initial setup and complex app design can require training
- Limited built-in support for highly regulated industries without add-ons
Best For
Mid-sized discrete manufacturers aiming to digitalize shop floor operations rapidly without IT-heavy development.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $2,000-$5,000/month based on stations, apps, and users.
MRPeasy
specializedCloud-based MRP system for small manufacturers managing production planning, shop floor scheduling, and inventory tracking.
Visual Gantt chart planner with automatic rescheduling for dynamic shop floor adjustments
MRPeasy is a cloud-based MRP/ERP software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers, offering robust shop floor management through real-time production tracking, work order execution, and scheduling. It integrates inventory control, material requirements planning, and shop floor reporting to streamline manufacturing operations from planning to completion. Users can monitor employee time, material consumption, and production progress via an intuitive dashboard and mobile app.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop Gantt scheduling for shop floor planning
- Real-time visibility into production progress and material usage
- Mobile app for on-floor time tracking and reporting
Cons
- Limited advanced MES features like machine IoT integration
- Reporting and analytics lack deep customization
- Full functionality requires higher-tier plans
Best For
Small to medium-sized discrete manufacturers needing an easy-to-use MRP system with solid shop floor execution for make-to-order production.
Pricing
Starts at $49/user/month (Basic, up to 10 users), $79/user/month (Standard, unlimited users), $139/user/month (Professional); annual discounts available.
Katana
specializedReal-time MRP software that handles manufacturing orders, shop floor execution, and live inventory for SMBs.
Live MRP with infinite zoom Gantt charts for dynamic production scheduling and capacity planning
Katana is a cloud-based MRP software designed for small to medium-sized manufacturers, offering real-time inventory management, production planning, and shop floor control. It enables users to create and track work orders, schedule production with visual tools like kanban boards and Gantt charts, and monitor live progress via a mobile app. The platform integrates with accounting software like QuickBooks and e-commerce tools like Shopify, streamlining operations from order to fulfillment.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling and visual kanban boards for easy shop floor management
- Real-time inventory and production tracking with mobile app support
- Strong integrations with accounting and sales platforms
Cons
- Advanced analytics and custom reporting require higher tiers
- Limited support for complex multi-step manufacturing processes
- Pricing scales quickly with manufacturing order volume
Best For
Small to medium-sized make-to-order or make-to-stock manufacturers needing simple, real-time shop floor visibility without enterprise complexity.
Pricing
Usage-based plans start at $99/month (150 manufacturing orders), $299/month (500 orders), up to custom Enterprise; free trial available.
Fishbowl
otherInventory management software with manufacturing modules for work orders, shop floor tracking, and QuickBooks integration.
Deep native integration with QuickBooks for effortless syncing of inventory, manufacturing, and financial data
Fishbowl is a comprehensive inventory management platform with built-in manufacturing modules tailored for small to midsize businesses handling shop floor operations. It supports work order creation, bill of materials management, production tracking, and real-time inventory control via barcode scanning and mobile apps. While strong in inventory accuracy and QuickBooks integration, it provides foundational shop floor tools like labor tracking and material issuance but lacks advanced MES features such as machine monitoring or IoT integration.
Pros
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks for streamlined accounting
- Robust barcode scanning and mobile support for real-time shop floor tracking
- Flexible manufacturing tools including BOMs, routings, and work orders
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex, customizable interface
- Limited advanced shop floor features like real-time machine integration or predictive scheduling
- Primarily desktop-based with some cloud limitations
Best For
Small to midsize manufacturers seeking affordable inventory-driven manufacturing management with QuickBooks compatibility.
Pricing
On-premise licenses start at $4,395 for base edition plus $1,300/user/year maintenance; SaaS from $129/user/month with add-ons.
ProShop
enterpriseERP and shop management system tailored for job shops with production control, quality management, and shop floor dispatching.
Digital Shop Traveler with real-time electronic sign-offs and non-conformance tracking embedded in production workflows
ProShop is a comprehensive ERP/MES platform tailored for custom manufacturers in regulated industries like aerospace, medical, and precision machining. It streamlines shop floor operations with digital travelers, real-time production tracking, scheduling, and quality management integrated into a single system. The software supports paperless workflows, from quoting and planning to execution and compliance reporting, making it ideal for complex, low-volume/high-mix production environments.
Pros
- Robust real-time shop floor monitoring and digital routers for efficient production control
- Built-in AS9100-compliant quality management tied directly to manufacturing processes
- Fully integrated ERP/MES eliminating silos between quoting, planning, and execution
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to high customizability and depth of features
- Pricing is quote-based and opaque, potentially high for smaller shops
- Limited scalability for very high-volume repetitive manufacturing
Best For
Mid-sized custom manufacturers in regulated industries requiring integrated shop floor control and quality compliance.
Pricing
Quote-based SaaS pricing starting around $500/month for basic setups, scaling with users, modules, and complexity.
Conclusion
The top tools in shop floor manufacturing cater to varied needs, with Plex leading as the top choice—boasting real-time visibility, integrated ERP and MES, and robust production scheduling. While Plex excels, Epicor Kinetic and DELMIAworks stand out: the former for discrete manufacturing with advanced control, the latter for mid-sized operations needing reliable monitoring and execution. Each solves unique challenges, but Plex emerges as the most comprehensive.
Ready to elevate your shop floor? Dive into Plex to experience real-time insight, streamlined processes, and the integrated tools that set it apart as an industry leader.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
