Quick Overview
- 1#1: PlanetTogether - Delivers advanced visual planning and scheduling with interactive Gantt charts for complex manufacturing operations.
- 2#2: Plex - Provides a smart manufacturing platform with real-time visual MES, ERP, and analytics dashboards.
- 3#3: Infor VISUAL - Offers ERP software tailored for job shops with visual job tracking and shop floor management.
- 4#4: Tulip - Enables no-code development of visual frontline apps for manufacturing workflows and digital work instructions.
- 5#5: mrpeasy - Cloud MRP system featuring visual production scheduling, inventory tracking, and shop floor control.
- 6#6: Katana MRP - Visual kanban-style platform for production planning, inventory, and sales order management in small manufacturers.
- 7#7: Prodsmart - Real-time visual MES for shop floor execution, performance tracking, and quality control.
- 8#8: Epicor Kinetic - Connected ERP with visual modules for manufacturing planning, execution, and supply chain visibility.
- 9#9: Asprova - Advanced visual APS software optimized for high-mix, low-volume manufacturing scheduling.
- 10#10: Fishbowl - Inventory and manufacturing management with visual order fulfillment and production tracking.
These tools were chosen based on a thorough assessment of their core features, including visual planning capabilities, scalability, ease of integration, and value for different manufacturing scales, ensuring they deliver tangible benefits across operational stages.
Comparison Table
Explore a comprehensive comparison of visual manufacturing software, highlighting tools like PlanetTogether, Plex, Infor VISUAL, Tulip, mrpeasy, and more. This table helps readers evaluate features, capabilities, and operational fit, enabling informed decisions for their manufacturing processes.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PlanetTogether Delivers advanced visual planning and scheduling with interactive Gantt charts for complex manufacturing operations. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | Plex Provides a smart manufacturing platform with real-time visual MES, ERP, and analytics dashboards. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | Infor VISUAL Offers ERP software tailored for job shops with visual job tracking and shop floor management. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 4 | Tulip Enables no-code development of visual frontline apps for manufacturing workflows and digital work instructions. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | mrpeasy Cloud MRP system featuring visual production scheduling, inventory tracking, and shop floor control. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 6 | Katana MRP Visual kanban-style platform for production planning, inventory, and sales order management in small manufacturers. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | Prodsmart Real-time visual MES for shop floor execution, performance tracking, and quality control. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 8 | Epicor Kinetic Connected ERP with visual modules for manufacturing planning, execution, and supply chain visibility. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Asprova Advanced visual APS software optimized for high-mix, low-volume manufacturing scheduling. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 10 | Fishbowl Inventory and manufacturing management with visual order fulfillment and production tracking. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
Delivers advanced visual planning and scheduling with interactive Gantt charts for complex manufacturing operations.
Provides a smart manufacturing platform with real-time visual MES, ERP, and analytics dashboards.
Offers ERP software tailored for job shops with visual job tracking and shop floor management.
Enables no-code development of visual frontline apps for manufacturing workflows and digital work instructions.
Cloud MRP system featuring visual production scheduling, inventory tracking, and shop floor control.
Visual kanban-style platform for production planning, inventory, and sales order management in small manufacturers.
Real-time visual MES for shop floor execution, performance tracking, and quality control.
Connected ERP with visual modules for manufacturing planning, execution, and supply chain visibility.
Advanced visual APS software optimized for high-mix, low-volume manufacturing scheduling.
Inventory and manufacturing management with visual order fulfillment and production tracking.
PlanetTogether
enterpriseDelivers advanced visual planning and scheduling with interactive Gantt charts for complex manufacturing operations.
Interactive Smart Visual Scheduler with automatic conflict resolution and manual drag-and-drop overrides for unparalleled visual control.
PlanetTogether is a cloud-based Advanced Planning and Scheduling (APS) software tailored for visual manufacturing, offering interactive Gantt charts for drag-and-drop scheduling and real-time visualization of production plans. It excels in finite capacity planning, multi-level BOM support, and what-if scenario simulations to optimize throughput and reduce bottlenecks. Seamlessly integrating with ERPs like SAP, Oracle, Epicor, and Microsoft Dynamics, it enables manufacturers to align shop floor execution with enterprise planning for superior on-time delivery.
Pros
- Exceptional visual interface with interactive Gantt charts and drag-and-drop rescheduling
- Robust ERP integrations and real-time data sync for seamless operations
- Advanced optimization engines handling complex constraints like materials, tools, and labor
Cons
- High cost may deter small manufacturers
- Initial configuration and integration can take weeks with specialist help
- Reporting tools are solid but less customizable than dedicated BI platforms
Best For
Mid-to-large manufacturers with complex, variable production needing visual APS tightly integrated with ERP systems.
Pricing
Custom quote-based subscription, typically $5,000+ per month based on resources/users/facilities; includes implementation fees.
Plex
enterpriseProvides a smart manufacturing platform with real-time visual MES, ERP, and analytics dashboards.
Real-time Plex Visual Factory dashboards providing a single, interactive view of entire operations with live data streaming
Plex is a cloud-native manufacturing ERP and MES platform that delivers real-time visual insights into production processes through interactive dashboards, digital work instructions, and shop floor monitoring tools. It integrates supply chain management, quality control, and inventory tracking into a unified system, enabling manufacturers to achieve smart factory operations. Designed for discrete and process manufacturers, Plex emphasizes visual data analytics and IoT connectivity for optimized decision-making.
Pros
- Comprehensive real-time visual dashboards for shop floor visibility and OEE tracking
- Seamless integration of MES, ERP, QMS, and SCM in a single platform
- Strong IoT and automation support for visual manufacturing workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup for non-technical users
- High subscription costs that may not suit small manufacturers
- Limited customization options for advanced reporting and visuals
Best For
Mid-to-large discrete manufacturers seeking an integrated visual MES/ERP for real-time production oversight and scalability.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starting at ~$1,000/month, scaled by users, plants, and modules (typically $750-$1,500/user/month for full suites).
Infor VISUAL
enterpriseOffers ERP software tailored for job shops with visual job tracking and shop floor management.
Interactive visual Gantt chart for drag-and-drop scheduling and finite capacity planning
Infor VISUAL is a robust ERP system designed specifically for small to mid-sized discrete manufacturers, emphasizing visual planning and scheduling for make-to-order and mixed-mode operations. It features a drag-and-drop Gantt chart interface for capacity planning, real-time shop floor execution, and integrated modules for quality management, inventory, and financials. The software provides end-to-end visibility, helping manufacturers optimize production, reduce lead times, and improve on-time delivery.
Pros
- Advanced visual drag-and-drop scheduling for intuitive capacity planning
- Real-time shop floor control and execution visibility
- Comprehensive integration of manufacturing, quality, and financial processes
Cons
- Complex implementation and customization process
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Higher pricing may strain smaller budgets
Best For
Small to mid-sized make-to-order manufacturers needing visual production scheduling and real-time operational insights.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing per user/module; typically starts at $200/user/month with implementation fees; contact Infor for quotes.
Tulip
specializedEnables no-code development of visual frontline apps for manufacturing workflows and digital work instructions.
Drag-and-drop Visual App Builder that allows non-technical users to create fully functional manufacturing apps in minutes
Tulip (tulip.co) is a no-code platform designed for front-line manufacturing operations, enabling users to build custom apps via drag-and-drop interfaces for tasks like production tracking, quality control, and maintenance. It connects workers, machines, and data through visual workflows, providing real-time insights and digital transformation without requiring developers. Ideal for shop floor digitization, it supports IIoT integrations and runs on tablets or edge devices for seamless execution.
Pros
- Intuitive no-code visual app builder accelerates deployment
- Strong real-time data capture and analytics for manufacturing insights
- Seamless integrations with PLCs, MES, and ERP systems
Cons
- High enterprise pricing limits accessibility for small manufacturers
- Initial configuration and training require time investment
- Advanced customizations may still need technical expertise
Best For
Mid-to-large manufacturers aiming to rapidly digitize shop floor operations with visual, no-code tools.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically starts at $1,000+ per month per app/station, scales with users and features—contact sales for quotes.
mrpeasy
specializedCloud MRP system featuring visual production scheduling, inventory tracking, and shop floor control.
Interactive Gantt chart scheduler with drag-and-drop rescheduling and real-time capacity visualization
MRPeasy is a cloud-based MRP/ERP software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers, emphasizing visual production planning and scheduling through interactive Gantt charts and drag-and-drop interfaces. It integrates inventory management, procurement, shop floor control, CRM, and basic accounting to streamline manufacturing operations. The platform provides real-time visibility into production processes, helping users optimize workflows without complex setups.
Pros
- Intuitive visual scheduling with drag-and-drop Gantt charts
- Comprehensive MRP tools including inventory and procurement at an affordable price
- Cloud-based with mobile access for real-time shop floor monitoring
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics and reporting customization
- Best suited for discrete manufacturing, less ideal for process industries
- Some features require initial setup assistance from support
Best For
Small to medium-sized discrete manufacturers needing visual production planning and affordable ERP without heavy IT overhead.
Pricing
Starts at €49 per user/month (billed annually) with all features included; scales with users and offers custom quotes for enterprises.
Katana MRP
specializedVisual kanban-style platform for production planning, inventory, and sales order management in small manufacturers.
The Visual Planner, a real-time, color-coded drag-and-drop scheduling board that provides instant oversight of production capacity and bottlenecks.
Katana MRP is a cloud-based visual manufacturing resource planning (MRP) software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers, offering real-time inventory tracking, production scheduling, and order management through intuitive visual dashboards and kanban-style boards. It enables drag-and-drop planning, bill of materials (BOM) management, and multi-location inventory control to streamline make-to-stock and make-to-order processes. With seamless integrations to e-commerce platforms like Shopify and accounting tools like QuickBooks, it provides end-to-end visibility into manufacturing operations.
Pros
- Intuitive visual interface with drag-and-drop scheduling and color-coded dashboards
- Real-time inventory tracking across multiple locations
- Strong integrations with e-commerce and accounting software
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics and reporting compared to enterprise solutions
- Pricing scales quickly for higher usage or larger teams
- Some customization options locked behind higher tiers
Best For
Small to medium-sized manufacturers needing an easy-to-use visual tool for inventory and production planning without complex setups.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Starter, up to 100 orders), $299/month (Cloud, unlimited orders), with custom Pro plans for enterprises.
Prodsmart
specializedReal-time visual MES for shop floor execution, performance tracking, and quality control.
Visual Control Tower providing a live, interactive overview of entire production processes
Prodsmart is a cloud-based Manufacturing Execution System (MES) that delivers real-time visual insights into shop floor operations through interactive dashboards and mobile apps. It enables paperless production management, OEE tracking, quality control, and full traceability from raw materials to finished goods. The platform supports visual scheduling, digital work instructions, and performance analytics, helping manufacturers reduce downtime and improve efficiency.
Pros
- Real-time visual dashboards for instant production visibility
- Mobile-first data capture simplifying shop floor operations
- Strong traceability and compliance tools
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for very small operations
- Limited advanced customization without add-ons
- Requires reliable internet for full functionality
Best For
Small to medium-sized job shops and make-to-order manufacturers seeking visual, real-time shop floor control.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starting around €300-500 per user/month, with tiers based on features and production volume.
Epicor Kinetic
enterpriseConnected ERP with visual modules for manufacturing planning, execution, and supply chain visibility.
Visual Scheduler with interactive Gantt charts and finite capacity planning for intuitive, real-time production optimization
Epicor Kinetic is a comprehensive cloud-based ERP platform tailored for manufacturing industries, featuring visual tools for production planning, scheduling, and shop floor execution. It offers intuitive dashboards, Gantt charts, and drag-and-drop interfaces through its MES module and Kinetic Design Studio for real-time visual oversight of operations. Ideal for discrete, process, and mixed-mode manufacturers, it integrates visual manufacturing workflows with core ERP functions like inventory, quality, and finance management.
Pros
- Robust visual scheduling with drag-and-drop Gantt charts and real-time dashboards
- Scalable cloud architecture with strong MES integration for shop floor visibility
- Customizable visualizations via low-code Kinetic Design Studio
Cons
- Complex initial setup and implementation requiring expert consultants
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users despite modern UI
- Higher pricing that may not suit small manufacturers
Best For
Mid-market manufacturers needing an integrated ERP with advanced visual planning and MES capabilities for complex production environments.
Pricing
Quote-based; typically $175-$300 per user/month for cloud subscriptions, with annual costs starting at $100,000+ based on modules, users, and deployment.
Asprova
specializedAdvanced visual APS software optimized for high-mix, low-volume manufacturing scheduling.
Automatic finite scheduling that instantly creates optimized visual plans accounting for all real-world constraints
Asprova is an advanced visual planning and scheduling (APS) software designed for manufacturing, featuring interactive Gantt charts for finite capacity scheduling. It automatically generates optimized production schedules considering constraints like materials, resources, and setup times across multi-site operations. The tool excels in visualizing complex shop floor processes and integrates seamlessly with ERP systems like SAP for real-time data synchronization.
Pros
- Powerful finite capacity scheduling engine for complex constraints
- Highly visual and interactive Gantt charts for easy schedule adjustments
- Strong ERP integrations and scalability for large operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial implementation
- High enterprise-level pricing not suited for small businesses
- Limited out-of-the-box reporting without customization
Best For
Mid-to-large manufacturers with complex, multi-resource production needing precise visual optimization.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing; typically starts at $50,000+ annually depending on modules, users, and implementation.
Fishbowl
specializedInventory and manufacturing management with visual order fulfillment and production tracking.
Deep, native bi-directional integration with QuickBooks Desktop and Online
Fishbowl Inventory is a comprehensive warehouse management and light manufacturing software designed primarily for small to mid-sized businesses. It handles inventory tracking, order fulfillment, purchasing, and basic manufacturing through bills of materials (BOMs), work orders, and production scheduling. While it offers visual dashboards and reports for monitoring inventory and operations, its visual manufacturing capabilities are more basic compared to specialized tools, focusing on integration with accounting systems like QuickBooks.
Pros
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks for real-time accounting sync
- Strong multi-location inventory tracking with barcode support
- Affordable for SMBs with scalable manufacturing modules
Cons
- Limited advanced visual scheduling or Gantt charts for complex manufacturing
- Primarily desktop-based (Windows), with some web limitations
- Steep learning curve for full manufacturing setup without training
Best For
Small to mid-sized manufacturers using QuickBooks who need reliable inventory control and basic production management without advanced visual planning.
Pricing
Subscription starts at ~$439/month for standard edition (5 users), plus ~$130/additional user/month; one-time purchase options available from $4,395.
Conclusion
The roundup of visual manufacturing tools showcases strong performers, with PlanetTogether emerging as the top choice for its advanced, interactive planning features in complex operations. Plex stands out with its integrated real-time MES, ERP, and analytics, while Infor VISUAL excels in job shop environments through tailored tracking. Each tool caters to specific workflows, but PlanetTogether leads in comprehensive visual scheduling.
Explore PlanetTogether to enhance your manufacturing efficiency and take your scheduling capabilities to the next level.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
