Customize Your "Best Fit" Software Comparison
  • Aerospace and Defense
  • Agriculture
  • Apparel and Textiles
  • Automotive
  • Building Materials and Products
  • Chemical
  • Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG)
  • Distribution
  • Electronics and High-Tech
  • Energy
  • Food and Beverage
  • HVAC
  • Industrial Machinery and Equipment
  • Lumber and Wood
  • Medical Device
  • Metal and Steel Fabrication
  • Mining and Quarrying
  • Oil and Gas
  • Other
  • Paper and Packaging
  • Pharmaceuticals and Biotechnology
  • Plastics and Rubber
  • Professional Services
  • Semiconductors
  • Ship Building and Marine
  • Transportation and Logistics
  • Additive Manufacturing
  • Configure To Order (CTO)
  • Discrete Manufacturing
  • Engineer to Order (ETO)
  • Industrial Distribution
  • Job Shop / Machine Shop
  • Light Assembly (ATO) / Kitting
  • Make to Order (MTO)
  • Mixed Mode Manufacturing
  • Process Manufacturing
  • Professional Services (Non-MFG)
  • Repetitive / Make to Stock
  • Wholesale Distribution
  • Under $1 Million
  • $1 to 10 Million
  • $11 to 50 Million
  • $51 to 100 Million
  • $101 to 500 Million
  • $500 Million to $1 Billion
  • Over $1 Billion
  • AI (Artificial Intelligence)
  • Barcoding
  • Cloud-Based
  • Ecommerce Integration
  • EDI (Electronic Data Interchange)
  • Hybrid Deployment (Cloud/Premise)
  • IBM DB2 Compatible
  • IoT (Direct Machine Integration)
  • KPIs (Knowledge Performance Indicators)
  • Lot Tracking
  • Mobile ERP
  • MS Azure Compatible
  • MS SQL Server
  • Multi-Tenant Architecture
  • NET Platform
  • On Premise
  • Progress Compatible
  • QuickBooks Compatible
  • Salesforce Compatible
  • SOA (Service Oriented Architecture)

The Top ERP Systems for Process Manufacturing

We've created a comprehensive comparison to help you choose the best ERP system for process manufacturing. Our side-by-side comparison simplifies the evaluation of ERP solutions with features suited to this manufacturing mode. You can also quickly request demos and pricing quotes directly from vendors in one click.

Through extensive research, our experts have identified the top ERP systems that fit the unique needs of process manufacturing companies. We've leveraged this knowledge to create a detailed guide that provides valuable insights into selecting and implementing the ideal ERP solutions. Read our selection guide.

20 ERP Systems Found

Batchmaster logo

BatchMaster ERP B1

Batchmaster logo

BatchMaster Manufacturing

Cetec erp logo

Cetec ERP

Datacor logo

Datacor ERP

Eci software logo

Deacom ERP

Tgi logo

Enterprise 21 ERP

Delmiaworks logo

Enterprise IQ

Aptean logo

Food & Beverage ERP

Ifs logo

IFS Cloud

Irely logo

iRely Process Manufacturing

Microsoft dynamics logo

Microsoft Dynamics AX

Netsuite logo

NetSuite ERP

Oracle logo

Oracle Fusion Cloud ERP

Real steel logo

RealSTEEL

Sage Software Logo

Sage X3 ERP

Sap logo

SAP Business One

Sap logo

SAP S/4HANA

Syspro logo

SYSPRO

Price Range

$85K - $250K

Price Range

$85K - $150K

Price Range

$3K - $40,000K

Price Range

$30K - $1,000K

Price Range

$100K - $3,000K

Price Range

$30K - $75K

Price Range

$25K - $300K

Price Range

N/A

Price Range

$300K - $2,000K

Price Range

$70K - $1,000K

Price Range

$75K - $250K

Price Range

N/A

Price Range

$20K - $750K

Price Range

$10K - $100K

Price Range

$25,000K - $500,000K

Price Range

N/A

Price Range

$25K - $250K

Price Range

$50K - $500K

Price Range

N/A

Price Range

$25K - $500K

Cost Per User

$300/mo

Cost Per User

$60/mo

Cost Per User

$40/mo

Cost Per User

$250/mo

Cost Per User

N/A

Cost Per User

$5,000/mo

Cost Per User

$250/mo

Cost Per User

N/A

Cost Per User

N/A

Cost Per User

$200/mo

Cost Per User

N/A

Cost Per User

$175/mo

Cost Per User

$4,000/mo

Cost Per User

$125/mo

Cost Per User

$500/mo

Cost Per User

$175/mo

Cost Per User

$75/mo

Cost Per User

$5,000/mo

Cost Per User

$2,000/mo

Cost Per User

$150/mo

Deployments

Yes Icon Cloud
Yes Icon On-Premise

Deployments

Yes Icon Cloud
Yes Icon On-Premise

Deployments

Yes Icon Cloud
Yes Icon On-Premise

Deployments

Yes Icon Cloud
Yes Icon On-Premise

Deployments

Yes Icon Cloud
Yes Icon On-Premise

Deployments

Yes Icon Cloud
Yes Icon On-Premise

Deployments

Yes Icon Cloud
Yes Icon On-Premise

Deployments

Yes Icon Cloud
Yes Icon On-Premise

Deployments

Yes Icon Cloud
Yes Icon On-Premise

Deployments

Yes Icon Cloud
Yes Icon On-Premise

Deployments

Yes Icon Cloud
Yes Icon On-Premise

Deployments

Yes Icon Cloud
No Icon On-Premise

Deployments

Yes Icon Cloud
No Icon On-Premise

Deployments

Yes Icon Cloud
No Icon On-Premise

Deployments

Yes Icon Cloud
No Icon On-Premise

Deployments

Yes Icon Cloud
No Icon On-Premise

Deployments

Yes Icon Cloud
Yes Icon On-Premise

Deployments

No Icon Cloud
Yes Icon On-Premise

Deployments

Yes Icon Cloud
No Icon On-Premise

Deployments

Yes Icon Cloud
Yes Icon On-Premise

Retention Rate

N/A

Retention Rate

N/A

Retention Rate

95%

Retention Rate

96%

Retention Rate

N/A

Retention Rate

N/A

Retention Rate

N/A

Retention Rate

98%

Retention Rate

N/A

Retention Rate

N/A

Retention Rate

N/A

Retention Rate

91%

Retention Rate

N/A

Retention Rate

N/A

Retention Rate

85%

Retention Rate

91%

Retention Rate

N/A

Retention Rate

65%

Retention Rate

78%

Retention Rate

95%

Version

17.1

Version

8.7

Version

Always Current

Version

2021

Version

17

Version

8.1

Version

Always Current

Version

Always Current

Version

Version 10

Version

M3 13.4

Version

2013.03.01

Version

2021

Version

AX 2020

Version

Release 2024.1

Version

2023

Version

-

Version

V12

Version

-

Version

Cloud 2021

Version

8.0

Financing Options

Lease, Subscription

Financing Options

Lease, Subscription

Financing Options

Subscription

Financing Options

Lease, Subscription

Financing Options

Lease to Own

Financing Options

Subscription

Financing Options

Lease, Subscription

Financing Options

-

Financing Options

Finance, Subscription

Financing Options

Lease, Subscription

Financing Options

Subscription

Financing Options

Subscription

Financing Options

Subscription

Financing Options

Subscription

Financing Options

Subscription

Financing Options

Subscription

Financing Options

Finance, Subscription

Financing Options

Finance, Subscription

Financing Options

Subscription

Financing Options

Subscription

User Range

5 — 250

User Range

5 — 150

User Range

5 — Unlimited

User Range

5 — 1000

User Range

10 — 2000

User Range

5 — 1000

User Range

5 — Unlimited

User Range

1 — Unlimited

User Range

100 — and up

User Range

20 — 1000+

User Range

1 — Unlimited

User Range

10 — Unlimited

User Range

5 — 2250

User Range

10 — unlimited

User Range

25 — unlimited

User Range

10 — +

User Range

10 — 1000

User Range

25 — 1000

User Range

15 — Unlimited

User Range

10 — 1000

Minimum Fee to Implement

$45,000

Minimum Fee to Implement

$45,000

Minimum Fee to Implement

$2,400

Minimum Fee to Implement

$15,000

Minimum Fee to Implement

N/A

Minimum Fee to Implement

$40,000

Minimum Fee to Implement

$20,000

Minimum Fee to Implement

N/A

Minimum Fee to Implement

$300,000

Minimum Fee to Implement

N/A

Minimum Fee to Implement

N/A

Minimum Fee to Implement

$35,000

Minimum Fee to Implement

$50,000

Minimum Fee to Implement

$10,000

Minimum Fee to Implement

$200,000

Minimum Fee to Implement

$35,000

Minimum Fee to Implement

$100,000

Minimum Fee to Implement

$50,000

Minimum Fee to Implement

$75,000

Minimum Fee to Implement

$25,000

Awards

-

Awards

-

Awards

-

Awards

-

Awards

-

Awards

-

Awards

-

Awards

-

Awards

-

Awards

-

Awards

-

Awards

-

Awards

-

Awards

4

Awards

4

Awards

-

Awards

-

Awards

-

Awards

-

Awards

100

Installs

-

Installs

2000+

Installs

250+

Installs

>1000

Installs

200+

Installs

500+

Installs

1200+

Installs

300+

Installs

3,300+

Installs

1,100+

Installs

-

Installs

2000+

Installs

9,300+

Installs

24,000+

Installs

1000+

Installs

2000+

Installs

7000

Installs

28,000+

Installs

10,000+

Installs

15,000+

Architecture

SOA, .NET

Architecture

.NET

Architecture

SaaS

Architecture

SOA, .NET

Architecture

.NET

Architecture

SOA

Architecture

SOA, .NET

Architecture

SOA

Architecture

SOA

Architecture

SOA, Multi-tenant

Architecture

SOA

Architecture

SOA, .NET, Native Cloud

Architecture

.NET

Architecture

-

Architecture

Hosted Cloud

Architecture

SOA, .NET, Native Cloud

Architecture

.NET

Architecture

SOA

Architecture

SOA, Native Cloud

Architecture

SOA

Core Features

  • Yes Icon Multi-Site
  • Yes Icon Multi-National
  • Yes Icon Financial Management
  • Yes Icon Production Management
  • Yes Icon Materials Management (MRP/BOM)
  • Yes Icon Sales Order Management (SOM)
  • Yes Icon Supply Chain Management (SCM)
  • Yes Icon Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Core Features

  • Yes Icon Multi-Site
  • Yes Icon Multi-National
  • No Icon Financial Management
  • Yes Icon Production Management
  • Yes Icon Materials Management (MRP/BOM)
  • Yes Icon Sales Order Management (SOM)
  • Yes Icon Supply Chain Management (SCM)
  • No Icon Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Core Features

  • Yes Icon Multi-Site
  • Yes Icon Multi-National
  • Yes Icon Financial Management
  • Yes Icon Production Management
  • Yes Icon Materials Management (MRP/BOM)
  • Yes Icon Sales Order Management (SOM)
  • Yes Icon Supply Chain Management (SCM)
  • Yes Icon Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Core Features

  • Yes Icon Multi-Site
  • Yes Icon Multi-National
  • Yes Icon Financial Management
  • Yes Icon Production Management
  • Yes Icon Materials Management (MRP/BOM)
  • Yes Icon Sales Order Management (SOM)
  • Yes Icon Supply Chain Management (SCM)
  • Yes Icon Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Core Features

  • Yes Icon Multi-Site
  • Yes Icon Multi-National
  • Yes Icon Financial Management
  • Yes Icon Production Management
  • Yes Icon Materials Management (MRP/BOM)
  • Yes Icon Sales Order Management (SOM)
  • Yes Icon Supply Chain Management (SCM)
  • Yes Icon Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Core Features

  • Yes Icon Multi-Site
  • No Icon Multi-National
  • Yes Icon Financial Management
  • Yes Icon Production Management
  • Yes Icon Materials Management (MRP/BOM)
  • Yes Icon Sales Order Management (SOM)
  • Yes Icon Supply Chain Management (SCM)
  • No Icon Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Core Features

  • Yes Icon Multi-Site
  • Yes Icon Multi-National
  • Yes Icon Financial Management
  • Yes Icon Production Management
  • Yes Icon Materials Management (MRP/BOM)
  • Yes Icon Sales Order Management (SOM)
  • Yes Icon Supply Chain Management (SCM)
  • Yes Icon Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Core Features

  • Yes Icon Multi-Site
  • Yes Icon Multi-National
  • Yes Icon Financial Management
  • Yes Icon Production Management
  • Yes Icon Materials Management (MRP/BOM)
  • Yes Icon Sales Order Management (SOM)
  • Yes Icon Supply Chain Management (SCM)
  • Yes Icon Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Core Features

  • Yes Icon Multi-Site
  • Yes Icon Multi-National
  • Yes Icon Financial Management
  • Yes Icon Production Management
  • Yes Icon Materials Management (MRP/BOM)
  • Yes Icon Sales Order Management (SOM)
  • Yes Icon Supply Chain Management (SCM)
  • Yes Icon Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Core Features

  • Yes Icon Multi-Site
  • Yes Icon Multi-National
  • Yes Icon Financial Management
  • Yes Icon Production Management
  • Yes Icon Materials Management (MRP/BOM)
  • Yes Icon Sales Order Management (SOM)
  • Yes Icon Supply Chain Management (SCM)
  • Yes Icon Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Core Features

  • Yes Icon Multi-Site
  • Yes Icon Multi-National
  • No Icon Financial Management
  • No Icon Production Management
  • No Icon Materials Management (MRP/BOM)
  • No Icon Sales Order Management (SOM)
  • No Icon Supply Chain Management (SCM)
  • No Icon Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Core Features

  • Yes Icon Multi-Site
  • Yes Icon Multi-National
  • Yes Icon Financial Management
  • Yes Icon Production Management
  • Yes Icon Materials Management (MRP/BOM)
  • Yes Icon Sales Order Management (SOM)
  • Yes Icon Supply Chain Management (SCM)
  • Yes Icon Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Core Features

  • Yes Icon Multi-Site
  • Yes Icon Multi-National
  • Yes Icon Financial Management
  • Yes Icon Production Management
  • Yes Icon Materials Management (MRP/BOM)
  • Yes Icon Sales Order Management (SOM)
  • Yes Icon Supply Chain Management (SCM)
  • Yes Icon Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Core Features

  • Yes Icon Multi-Site
  • Yes Icon Multi-National
  • Yes Icon Financial Management
  • Yes Icon Production Management
  • Yes Icon Materials Management (MRP/BOM)
  • Yes Icon Sales Order Management (SOM)
  • Yes Icon Supply Chain Management (SCM)
  • Yes Icon Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Core Features

  • Yes Icon Multi-Site
  • Yes Icon Multi-National
  • Yes Icon Financial Management
  • Yes Icon Production Management
  • Yes Icon Materials Management (MRP/BOM)
  • Yes Icon Sales Order Management (SOM)
  • Yes Icon Supply Chain Management (SCM)
  • Yes Icon Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Core Features

  • Yes Icon Multi-Site
  • Yes Icon Multi-National
  • Yes Icon Financial Management
  • Yes Icon Production Management
  • Yes Icon Materials Management (MRP/BOM)
  • Yes Icon Sales Order Management (SOM)
  • Yes Icon Supply Chain Management (SCM)
  • Yes Icon Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Core Features

  • Yes Icon Multi-Site
  • Yes Icon Multi-National
  • Yes Icon Financial Management
  • Yes Icon Production Management
  • Yes Icon Materials Management (MRP/BOM)
  • Yes Icon Sales Order Management (SOM)
  • No Icon Supply Chain Management (SCM)
  • Yes Icon Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Core Features

  • Yes Icon Multi-Site
  • Yes Icon Multi-National
  • Yes Icon Financial Management
  • Yes Icon Production Management
  • Yes Icon Materials Management (MRP/BOM)
  • Yes Icon Sales Order Management (SOM)
  • Yes Icon Supply Chain Management (SCM)
  • Yes Icon Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Core Features

  • Yes Icon Multi-Site
  • Yes Icon Multi-National
  • Yes Icon Financial Management
  • Yes Icon Production Management
  • Yes Icon Materials Management (MRP/BOM)
  • Yes Icon Sales Order Management (SOM)
  • Yes Icon Supply Chain Management (SCM)
  • Yes Icon Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Core Features

  • Yes Icon Multi-Site
  • Yes Icon Multi-National
  • Yes Icon Financial Management
  • Yes Icon Production Management
  • Yes Icon Materials Management (MRP/BOM)
  • Yes Icon Sales Order Management (SOM)
  • Yes Icon Supply Chain Management (SCM)
  • Yes Icon Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Unique Features

ERP offers BatchMaster Manufacturing for make to stock and/or make to order, plus has QMS, FDA Validation templates, graphical record mapping, messaging/email collaboration, 3rd party contract manufacturing management, project based cost accounting

Unique Features

Dynamic formulation, workflows, snapshot planning & scheduling vs advanced MRP & MPS, optimized batch job creation & dependent job linkages, QA continuous improvement, auto UOM conversions, mobile task execution, graphical lot traceability & recall

Unique Features

Cetec ERP is a single, unified business platform that delivers “tier 1” enterprise-level feature breadth at extraordinarily lower costs than traditional systems, owing to a long history combined with completely modernized cloud/SaaS technology. Their approach is direct, friendly, and transparent: they own the technology (i.e. no “bolt-ons”), and offer the software directly with no markup (i.e. not through incompetent third-party VARs), and offer close, attentive in-house support.

Unique Features

“Datacor ERP has tied all of the information we need into one centralized system. When we move an item in the wireless system, the information is immediately reflected across the platform. Our distribution and manufacturing operations are far more agile because we now know precisely what products we have or need, in what quantities and exactly where they are located.”

- Randy Byle | Haviland Enterprises, Inc.

Unique Features

As a comprehensive ERP platform with the industry’s largest functional foundation, Deacom ERP provides a rich set of capabilities designed specifically for growing process manufacturing and distribution businesses around the world. All functionality specific to these industries is developed and supported in-house and written into the core platform.

Unique Features

Unique Features

DELMIAworks IQMS also offers a broad choice of deployment options that will allow you to pick the solution that is best for your business: on-premise or hosted Cloud ERP deployment via hosted managed services or SaaS. Providing three deployment options gives you the flexibility to choose the best solution for your company and your budget.

Unique Features

Built on Microsoft Dynamics, Aptean Food & Beverage is a Microsoft certified, food and beverage-specific ERP. Aptean Food & Beverage is designed to reduce implementation risk and cost by being a 90% fit-out-of-the-box. Being focused on the food and beverage industry has allowed Aptean Food & Beverage to invest in functionality that is most important to the industry.

Unique Features

IFS Applications is a single, integrated product supporting the management of 4 core processes: Service and Asset, Manufacturing, Project, and Supply Chain.

Unique Features

Unique Features

Unique Features

Unique Features

Designed for mid-size and large manufacturers

Unique Features

As a suite of cloud-based applications, NetSuite brings together all the systems that businesses need to grow, scale and adapt to change.

Unique Features

This is Oracle's newest Cloud ERP System for companies over 200M in revenue.

Unique Features

RealSTEEL ERP System is designed specifically for steel and metals processing with an intrinsic focus on inventory management.

Unique Features

Sage X3 helps your business thrive and stay competitive by providing users with the information they need to serve their customers better, take back control over the quality, and eliminate inefficiencies across the organization. It streamlines your core processes – from manufacturing to distribution and financial management to business services – while adapting to your industries best practices.

Unique Features

Unique Features

Unique Features

SYSPRO is a software company that supplies Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solutions to manufacturing and distribution companies. SYSPRO’s strength lies in its specialist experience and industry-built approach to technology, which can be deployed as on-premise solutions, cloud SaaS or hybrid, and accessed anywhere, anytime from mobile devices.

Key features of the SYSPRO solution include its depth of functionality in Manufacturing Operations Management (MOM), Inventory Optimization & Management, Distribution and Procurement, self-service portals and supply chain extensibility, customization tailoring, and low-code extensibility tools. SYSPRO also supports out-of-the-box integrations, connectors, and business process automation, and customers have the ability to integrate technologies such as AI, ML, and IoT into their ERP system and extend the solution and connect to other systems.

By choosing SYSPRO, customers gain access to a team of global industry experts who help them drive maximum value from their business systems and solutions. SYSPRO empowers customers to secure a digital future and enables digital transformation, supporting data & analysis-driven decision-making with integrated solutions to enable visibility and engagement.

SYSPRO leads manufacturers and distributors through significant growth. The business also strongly commits to channel partner success and focuses on ensuring a highly successful solution implementation and customer experience. SYSPRO gives customers the confidence to say yes – to the next idea, the next opportunity, the next possibility, and to achieve more.

Limitations

BatchMaster Manufacturing is uniquely architected for use by formula-based, process manufacturers in the food, chemical, nutraceutical, life sciences, pharmaceutical, and hemp related industries.

Limitations

Business Manufacturing application runs with QuickBooks, Sage 100/300, Microsoft Dynamics GP and SAP Business One financials. BatchMaster Manufacturing is uniquely architected for use by formula-based, process manufacturers in the food, chemical, nutraceutical, life sciences, pharmaceutical, and hemp related industries.

Limitations

Not ideal for service-based or retail businesses. No “HR” or “Payroll” inside the platform; requires integrating to a third-party payroll system.

Limitations

This product is not intended for discrete manufacturing or heavy distribution.

Limitations

Limitations

Limitations

DELMIAworks IQMS is not a solution fit for businesses that are not manufacturing environments.

Limitations

Can’t be: Multi-national and multi-plant operation (more than MexCanUSA), $1 Billion plus, 500+ users, Multi-location broad line distributors (these groups should look at our F&O system).

Limitations

IFS is not suitable for smaller organizations under $100 Million in annual revenue.

Limitations

Limitations

Limitations

Limitations

Not appropriate for small companies

Limitations

Limitations

Not for smaller companies with under $150 Million in Revenue

Limitations

Limitations

Not suitable for companies smaller than 10 million in revenue.

Limitations

Limitations

Limitations

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ERP Selection Guide for Process Manufacturing

Updated On:

In this ERP selection guide we cover

Process manufacturing erp

We’ve crafted a comprehensive guide on selecting an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system suited to the unique needs of process manufacturing. This guide is for business owners, executives, and decision-makers exploring ERP solutions that align with their operational complexities and objectives. 

Whether you are new to ERP systems or looking to upgrade your current platform, our insights will equip you to make an informed decision.

Scope of the Guide

Our guide will demystify the selection of an ERP system for process manufacturing operations. We will cover process manufacturing, its distinct challenges, and why having the right ERP solution is beneficial and critical for success. 

Our focus will extend to the key features and considerations specific to process manufacturers, ensuring you have a clear framework to assess potential ERP solutions. 

We will also give you our picks for the best ERP systems for your process manufacturing business.

ERP and Its Relevance in Process Manufacturing

Process manufacturing is a production method used in industries where raw materials are combined, mixed, or blended to create a final product. Manufacturers in the food and beverage industry are a great example of this. Unlike discrete manufacturing, where products are assembled from individual parts, process manufacturing involves formulas or recipes, making the production continuous or in batches. 

This manufacturing mode is prevalent in industries such as chemicals, food and beverages, and pharmaceuticals.

The unique challenges of process manufacturing stem from the complexity of managing recipes, the need for strict regulatory compliance, quality control, and the handling of by-products or waste. Additionally, variability in raw material quality can significantly affect the manufacturing process and final product quality.

For process manufacturers, ERP systems are invaluable for managing complex business operations. They provide real-time visibility across the enterprise and enable the seamless management of recipes, production schedules, and quality control processes. They also integrate various general business functions within an organization, including inventory management, procurement, sales, finance, and more, into a unified system. 

Selecting the Right ERP System for Process Manufacturing

Choosing the right ERP system for process manufacturing is crucial due to the industry’s complex requirements and challenges. It’s important to note that most ERP systems available today are NOT suitable for Process Manufacturing, so it’s critical to know which systems are specifically designed for manufacturing modality. 

A suitable ERP system can optimize all aspects of a process manufacturing business.

On the other hand, an ill-fitting system can lead to operational bottlenecks, compliance risks, and wasted resources, becoming like a boat anchor that holds a business back. 

Therefore, it is essential to approach the selection process with a detailed understanding of your business needs and the capabilities of potential ERP solutions.

Below, we provide a curated list of top ERP systems suited for process manufacturing, detail the essential features to look for, discuss ERP costs, and share real-world case studies. We aim to guide you through every step of the selection process, ensuring you choose ERP software that best fits your business needs.

Process Manufacturing Challenges & ERP Solutions

Process manufacturing has unique challenges that can significantly impact operational efficiency, product quality, and profitability. Understanding this is important when evaluating ERP systems, as the selected solution should effectively address these issues and provide tangible benefits to your organization.

Key Pain Points in Process Manufacturing

  1. Recipe and Formula Management: Managing complex recipes with precision, including variations in batch sizes and scaling production, while maintaining product quality and consistency.
  2. Regulatory Compliance and Quality Control: Ensuring products meet industry standards and regulations, which vary across regions and product types. This includes managing quality control tests, certifications, and traceability.
  3. Inventory Management and Waste Reduction: Optimizing inventory levels to reduce waste and handling the variability of raw material quality that can affect production and final product quality.
  4. Production Scheduling and Efficiency: Coordinating production schedules to maximize efficiency and throughput while minimizing downtime and addressing batch processing challenges.
  5. Cost Control and Pricing: Managing the costs of materials, production, and waste while setting competitive pricing strategies.
  6. Integration of Processes and Data Analysis: Integrating various processes across departments and analyzing data for informed decision-making, forecasting, and strategic planning.

How ERP Addresses Them

  1. Enhanced Recipe and Formula Management: ERP systems for process manufacturing offer advanced formula and recipe management features. For food and beverage manufacturers, these features allow for precise control over ingredients, adjustments for batch sizes, and production scaling without sacrificing quality. They facilitate version control and ensure consistency across all batches.
  2. Streamlined Regulatory Compliance and Quality Control: With built-in compliance management tools, ERP systems help manufacturers adhere to industry regulations and standards. They support quality control processes, manage documentation for audits, and ensure product traceability from raw materials to finished goods.
  3. Improved Inventory Management and Waste Reduction: ERP solutions provide real-time visibility into inventory levels, enabling better planning and forecasting to minimize waste. They can also manage the variability in raw material quality, ensuring that only materials that meet quality standards are used in production.
  4. Optimized Production Scheduling: By integrating production planning and scheduling tools, ERPs enable manufacturers to optimize their production processes, reduce downtime, and improve overall efficiency. They can adjust production schedules dynamically based on demand and resource availability.
  5. Comprehensive Cost Control and Pricing: ERPs offer detailed cost analysis tools, allowing businesses to track and manage all spending. They support strategic pricing decisions by providing insights into cost drivers and profit margins.
  6. Unified Process Integration and Data Analysis: ERP systems integrate various business processes, from procurement to sales, under a single platform, facilitating seamless data flow and communication across departments. Advanced analytics and reporting tools help analyze data for better forecasting, decision-making, and strategic planning.

Top ERP Systems for Process Manufacturers

In our quest to help process manufacturers navigate the ERP solutions market, we’ve evaluated and selected top ERP systems that stand out for their robust capabilities and ability to meet the unique demands of process manufacturing. 

The criteria for our selection encompass several vital factors: functionality tailored to process manufacturing, ease of integration with existing systems, scalability to support business growth, user-friendly interface, and comprehensive support and training options.

Our Top Picks

Deacom ERP

Deacom ERP is a unified ERP platform by ECI Software Solutions for manufacturers and distributors. It integrates features like inventory management, CRM, and eCommerce within one system. Designed for process manufacturers, it ensures regulatory compliance and adapts to changing market demands.

Deployments
Yes Icon Cloud
Yes Icon On-Premise
Cost Per User N/A
Price Range $100K - $3,000K
Retention Rate
N/A

BatchMaster Manufacturing

BatchMaster ERP software is an excellent choice for food manufacturers who are working to expand and grow their operations. Through BatchMaster’s embedded functionality, a food manufacturer can easily add powerful functions such as batch production, costing and inventory management to the software they already use. Their process manufacturing solutions are built for smooth and simple integration with SAP Business One, QuickBooks and other popular enterprise software.

Deployments
Yes Icon Cloud
Yes Icon On-Premise
Cost Per User $60/mo
Price Range $85K - $150K
Retention Rate
N/A

INFOR Cloudsuite Process (Infor M3)

Infor M3 is a robust Cloud ERP tailored for industries such as chemicals and food. It provides enhanced security, reduces overall costs, and eliminates the need for major software upgrades. Built on the Infor OS platform, it extends capabilities with features like data management and AI.

Deployments
Yes Icon Cloud
Yes Icon On-Premise
Cost Per User $200/mo
Price Range $70K - $1,000K
Retention Rate
N/A

IFS Cloud

IFS Cloud (previously IFS 10.0) is a versatile enterprise software combining ERP, EAM, and ESM functionalities. Started in 1983, its latest version boasts an intuitive user interface built on a component-based, Service Oriented Architecture (SOA), emphasizing adaptability across core processes like Manufacturing and Supply Chain.

Deployments
Yes Icon Cloud
Yes Icon On-Premise
Cost Per User N/A
Price Range $300K - $2,000K
Retention Rate
N/A

Food & Beverage ERP

Aptean's Food & Beverage ERP, based on Microsoft's Dynamics 365, is tailored for industry needs. It offers ingredient tracking, expiration management, lot profitability insights, and multi-currency support. The ERP seamlessly integrates with other Microsoft platforms, ensuring consistent updates.

Deployments
Yes Icon Cloud
Yes Icon On-Premise
Cost Per User N/A
Price Range N/A
Retention Rate
98%

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central

Dynamics 365 Business Central is an ERP for small to mid-sized businesses, offering integrated solutions for finance, manufacturing, and sales. It seamlessly integrates with Microsoft tools, offers real-time cloud access, and scales with business growth.

Deployments
Yes Icon Cloud
No Icon On-Premise
Cost Per User $175/mo
Price Range N/A
Retention Rate
91%

Essential ERP Features for Process Manufacturing Operations

Here’s a breakdown of the critical requirements and features, alongside key integration capabilities, to look for in an ERP solution tailored for process manufacturing.

Key Requirements for Process Manufacturing ERP Software

  1. Comprehensive Recipe and Formula Management: Ability to manage complex formulas, including variations for different batch sizes and scaling production.
  2. Regulatory Compliance and Quality Control: Tools to ensure products meet industry standards, manage documentation, and maintain quality control throughout production.
  3. Advanced Inventory Management: Inventory management capabilities to handle raw material variability, optimize stock levels, and reduce waste.
  4. Production Scheduling and Efficiency: Features that support efficient production schedule planning, minimize downtime, and optimize resource utilization.
  5. Cost Control and Financial Management: Tools for tracking and managing materials, production processes, and waste management costs.
  6. Data Analytics and Reporting: Advanced analytics business intelligence tools. Reporting capabilities for strategic decision-making and operational insights.
  7. Integration and Scalability: The system should easily integrate with other tools and scale as the business grows.

Essential ERP Features and Modules

  • Batch Processing and Tracking: Enables precise control over batch production, ensuring quality and efficiency.
  • Compliance Management: Automates compliance tracking and reporting, simplifying adherence to regulations.
  • Quality Testing and Management: Facilitates rigorous quality checks and balances at every stage of production.
  • Supply Chain Management: Offers tools for managing the supply chain end-to-end, from materials sourcing to product delivery.
  • Financial Management and Cost Accounting: Provides detailed financial tracking and analysis to manage costs effectively and increase profitability.
  • Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Integrates sales, marketing, and customer service functions to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Human Resources Management (HRM): Manages employee data, payroll, and performance, supporting the workforce effectively.

When choosing an ERP solution for process manufacturing, looking for essential feature modules is important. Remember that the objective is to find an ERP solution that perfectly aligns with your specific production process requirements, enabling operational efficiency and strategic advantage in a competitive market.

Cost of ERP for Process Manufacturing

Investing in an ERP solution is a significant decision for process manufacturers, involving careful consideration of both initial costs and long-term value. ERP systems vary widely in pricing, influenced by system complexity, customization requirements, and deployment options. Understanding these costs is crucial for making an informed decision that aligns with your business needs and budget.

Factors Influencing ERP Costs

  1. Software Licensing: The core cost of any ERP solution is determined by the software’s scope and the licensing model (perpetual vs. subscription-based).
  2. Customization and Integration: Tailoring the ERP to fit specific process manufacturing needs and integrating it with existing systems can significantly impact costs.
  3. Deployment Model: Choosing between on-premise or cloud-based solutions affects initial investment and ongoing expenses.
  4. User Training and Support: Ensuring your team can use the ERP system effectively requires training and ongoing support, contributing to the overall cost.
  5. Data Migration: Transferring existing data into the new ERP system is a complex process that incurs costs depending on the volume and complexity of the data.
  6. Maintenance and Updates: Ongoing costs to keep the ERP system up-to-date and functioning optimally, including software updates and system maintenance.

Implementation Costs

Implementing an ERP system in manufacturing involves project planning, system customization, data migration, and user training. These activities demand time and resources, making implementation a significant portion of the total cost. 

Moreover, unexpected challenges such as delays or additional customization needs can further increase these costs. Working with a reliable ERP vendor that understands the intricacies of process manufacturing is essential to minimize surprises and ensure a smooth implementation process.

Various factors influence the cost of an ERP system for process manufacturers. For more information on ERP pricing, please read our guide to ERP pricing. This comprehensive resource provides additional insights and considerations to help you confidently navigate the complexities of ERP investment.

Process Manufacturing ERP Case Studies

To illustrate the real-world impact of ERP implementations, we offer case studies showcasing process manufacturing companies’ experiences. These case studies provide valuable insights into the challenges faced, solutions implemented, and benefits realized through their ERP journeys.

  • Yuengling & Son USA Case Study: Yuengling, America’s oldest brewery, implemented DEACOM ERP to streamline operations across their facilities, improve data tracking and reporting, and eliminate manual processes. The simplified, customization-free solution from Deacom provided a smooth transition and enhanced efficiency for the rapidly growing company.
  • Cosmaceutical Research Labs Case Study: Cosmaceutical Research Labs, a contract manufacturer for the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries, implemented BatchMaster Manufacturing ERP to replace their non-integrated systems. The software provided an end-to-end solution, improving inventory control, data accuracy, manufacturing efficiency by 18 – 22%, and customer response times. BatchMaster has become an essential tool for Cosmaceutical’s operations and growth.
  • Cypress Grove ERP Case Study: Cypress Grove upgraded from an outdated Microsoft Dynamics NAV ERP to Aptean Food & Beverage ERP to address challenges related to rapid growth. The new system improved data accuracy, traceability, inventory management, and efficiency, enabling better decision-making and future growth planning.

We have additional case studies available here for your research on ERP software.

FAQ Section for Process Manufacturing ERP Buyers

The ERP selection and implementation journey raises numerous questions. We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions by process manufacturing software buyers to aid in this critical decision-making process.

What makes an ERP solution for process manufacturing different from other industries?

ERP systems tailored for process manufacturing are designed to handle the industry’s specific challenges, such as complex recipe and formula management, compliance with stringent regulatory standards, and efficient handling of batch processing and quality control. These systems offer specialized functionalities that support process manufacturers’ unique workflow and production requirements, unlike generic ERP solutions that may lack these critical capabilities.

What are the key differences between process manufacturing and discrete manufacturing ERP systems?

Process manufacturing ERP solutions are designed to handle the unique challenges of manufacturing products using formulas and recipes. In contrast, discrete manufacturing ERP software focuses on producing distinct, countable units. These systems typically include batch tracking, recipe management, and quality control, which are essential for maintaining product consistency and compliance with regulations.

How does an ERP system help with regulatory compliance in process manufacturing?

ERP systems designed for process manufacturing often include built-in features and modules that help organizations maintain compliance with industry-specific regulations, such as FDA 21 CFR Part 11, HACCP, and GMP. These features may include electronic signatures, audit trails, quality control checkpoints, and document management capabilities. By automating compliance processes and providing a centralized platform for managing regulatory requirements, ERP systems can help process manufacturers minimize the risk of non-compliance and streamline audit preparations.

Can ERP systems manage variable quality in raw materials for process manufacturers?

Yes, advanced ERP systems can track and analyze the quality of materials, allowing process manufacturers to adjust their manufacturing processes accordingly. These systems enable the creation of quality standards and testing protocols to assess raw material variability, ensuring that only materials meeting these standards are used, which helps maintain consistent product quality.

How can I ensure a successful ERP implementation in my process manufacturing organization?

Successful ERP implementations in process manufacturing require careful planning, effective project management, and strong stakeholder engagement. Critical success factors include defining project goals and scope, selecting the right ERP vendor and implementation partner, allocating sufficient resources and budget, and providing comprehensive training and change management support. It is also essential to involve end-users throughout the implementation process to ensure that the ERP software solution meets their needs and to foster a sense of ownership and adoption.

What should process manufacturing businesses consider when choosing between on-premise and cloud-based ERP deployments?

The choice between on-premise and cloud-based ERP deployments depends on various factors, such as your organization’s IT infrastructure, budget, and security requirements. Cloud-based ERP systems offer benefits such as reduced upfront costs, scalability, and accessibility from anywhere with an internet connection. On-premise deployments provide greater control over data security and customization options but require more significant hardware and IT resource investments. Consider your organization’s needs and consult with ERP vendors to determine the best deployment option for your process manufacturing business.

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