A manufacturing software is a computer program that is made to assist the manufacturing business in different aspects, from quality control and inventory management to streamlining the workflow. With the evolution of technology, this has become a norm in the manufacturing industry to improve work efficiency.
There are different types of software, e.g., manufacturing ERP systems. It is important to choose the one suitable for your business goals. This guide walks you through everything you should know to pick the best software for your manufacturing business.
Understanding the Manufacturing Software Systems
These systems are used to facilitate manufacturing businesses in streamlining their workflows, keeping records, managing inventory, product design, integrating the work chains, and maintaining compliance with the laws. They serve diverse purposes. The need for these systems has increased massively recently, and each company can even go for customized software specific to their needs.
Types of Software in Manufacturing Industry
Each type of software serves a specific purpose. You have to choose the one that aligns with your goals and budget. Here are different types of software:
ERP Systems (Enterprise Resource Planning):
- All-in-one software to manage manufacturing, finance, and supply chain.
- Helps with inventory, planning, and quality.
CAD/CAM Software:
- CAD is used to design 3D models of products.
- CAM turns those designs into instructions for machines.
- Often used with CNC machines.
MRP & APS Software:
- MRP plans what materials are needed for production.
- APS helps schedule production and use resources better.
Supply Chain Management (SCM) Software:
- They track the full journey of a product, from buying materials to delivery.
- Help manage stock and shipping.
Quality Management Software:
- These systems make sure products meet quality standards.
- Help monitor and control the quality process.
Best ERP & Accounting Software for Manufacturing Businesses
This list contains a range of different software used for diverse purposes in the industry, especially by large and small businesses to systemize their business operations. Find the most suitable ones to use for your manufacturing operations and business intelligence:
1. BatchMaster ERP
How to Use:
- Set up your recipes/formulas.
- Add quality control steps for each batch.
- Use compliance tracking for industry standards.
- Monitor production and inventory in real time.
| Feature | Description |
| Best For | Process industries (food, chemicals, pharma) |
| Key Tools | Formula management, quality checks, compliance |
| Language | English |
| Cloud-Based | Yes |
2. SAP Business One
How to Use:
- Input business data like products, finances, and sales.
- Set up inventory and production modules.
- Use real-time analytics to track operations.
- Connect with other tools using built-in integration.
| Feature | Description |
| Best For | Small to medium businesses (SMEs) |
| Key Tools | Finance, sales, inventory, analytics |
| Language | English |
| Cloud-Based | Yes |
3. Infor CloudSuite Industrial
How to Use:
- Choose your industry settings (discrete/process).
- Set up supply chain and production flows.
- Use cloud dashboard to monitor daily operations.
- Plan budgets and resources through financial tools.
| Feature | Description |
| Best For | Mid to large manufacturers |
| Key Tools | Production, supply chain, financial planning |
| Language | English |
| Cloud-Based | Yes |
4. Elate ERP
How to Use:
- Customize modules as per business needs.
- Add accounts, CRM leads, and inventory data.
- Track manufacturing and sales from one platform.
- Use dashboard for reporting and analysis.
| Feature | Description |
| Best For | All industries (customizable) |
| Key Tools | Accounting, CRM, inventory, manufacturing |
| Language | English |
| Cloud-Based | Yes (custom options) |
5. Compass ERP
How to Use:
- Choose modules like HR, finance, or CRM.
- Use Arabic-English interface for regional ease.
- Manage local business processes smoothly.
- Track production and workflow from one system.
| Feature | Description |
| Best For | UAE-based businesses needing bilingual support |
| Key Tools | Finance, HR, CRM, production |
| Language | Arabic + English |
| Cloud-Based | Yes |
6. SowaanERP
How to Use:
- Add product and inventory details.
- Manage subcontracting and work orders.
- Use mobile access to track production on the go.
- Monitor real-time reports and performance.
| Feature | Description |
| Best For | Modern manufacturers with mobile needs |
| Key Tools | Subcontracting, inventory, real-time tracking |
| Language | English |
| Cloud-Based | Yes |
7. ERPNext
How to Use:
- Install and choose manufacturing module.
- Add products, bills of materials, and routing.
- Manage inventory, sales, and accounting.
- Customize features as per business goals.
| Feature | Description |
| Best For | Small to medium businesses needing flexibility |
| Key Tools | Manufacturing, inventory, accounting, CRM |
| Language | English |
| Cloud-Based | Yes (also available as self-hosted) |
8. Horizon EBS
How to Use:
- Input customer quotes and convert them into production orders.
- Utilize the system to track job progress and material requirements.
- Manage VAT-compliant accounting and generate professional invoices.
- Monitor subcontractor activities and ensure timely deliveries.​
| Feature | Description |
| Best For | Make-to-order manufacturers in the UAE |
| Key Tools | Quotation management, job tracking, VAT accounting |
| Language Support | English |
| Deployment Options | Cloud and on-premise |
9. RealSoft Manufacturing
How to Use:
- Set up production workflows and define cost centers.
- Automate production processes to enhance efficiency.
- Monitor production stages and control inventory levels.
- Analyze costs at various production stages for better budgeting.​
| Feature | Description |
| Best For | Manufacturers seeking comprehensive process control |
| Key Tools | Production automation, cost analysis, inventory control |
| Language Support | English |
| Deployment Options | On-premise |
10. Focus MRP
How to Use:
- Define quality standards and inspection criteria.
- Automate quality checks during production processes.
- Capture real-time data for immediate quality assessments.
- Implement corrective actions based on quality reports.
| Feature | Description |
| Best For | Manufacturers prioritizing quality control |
| Key Tools | Quality inspections, real-time data capture, CAPA |
| Language Support | English |
| Deployment Options | Cloud-based |
How to Choose the Right Software for Your Manufacturing Business
Choosing the perfect ERP software for your business can be tricky. However, by keeping the following factors in view, you can make the right decision for your business:
Assess Business Needs
Understand what your business requires. Evaluate specific requirements based on industry, company size, and operational complexity. Write things down so you have a list of the exact things that you need.
Budget Considerations
These systems come with a cost. The perfect fit should align with your goals as well as your budget. You have to balance features with affordability.
Scalability and Support
If your business grows, will the software be able to sustain the load? You have to go for the system that can grow with the business. Customer support is also a deciding factor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is an ERP and how does it support manufacturing companies?
An ERP centralizes essential business processes, enabling manufacturers to streamline operations like procurement, production, and finance. This type of software for manufacturing industry helps ensure smoother workflows, better collaboration, and timely decision-making across departments. Many modern solutions also include manufacturing accounting software and real-time analytics.
2. How does manufacturing ERP improve inventory management?
Manufacturing ERP includes modules that track raw materials, finished goods, and reorder levels in real time. This inventory software helps avoid overstocking or shortages, improves cash flow, and ensures that stock levels match production schedules, vital for maintaining a lean manufacturing process.
3. Why is ERP software important for small business manufacturing?
For small and midsize businesses, ERP helps bring structure to daily operations. From managing orders to handling suppliers and production scheduling, this software for manufacturing companies is designed to automate repetitive tasks, improve productivity, and support business growth even on a limited budget.
4. What should you look for in the best manufacturing ERP software?
When selecting the right manufacturing software, consider whether it aligns with your industry type (discrete or process), offers mobile access, integrates with existing systems, and provides tools for financial management, production, and compliance. The best software will scale with your needs and support all critical manufacturing operations and business workflows.
5. What makes a manufacturing ERP system suitable for discrete manufacturing?
In discrete manufacturing, where products are built in distinct units (like electronics or furniture), the ERP must handle BOMs (Bills of Materials), work orders, routing, and component tracking. A robust manufacturing software solution ensures detailed visibility into each production step, helping manage complexity in assembly and inventory.
6. Is cloud-based manufacturing software reliable for critical operations?
Yes. Cloud-based software offers high availability, remote access, and real-time updates, making it ideal for modern, flexible manufacturing environments. Whether you’re using cloud ERP or specialized cloud manufacturing software, these systems enhance collaboration, lower IT costs, and support smart manufacturing initiatives.
7. How does manufacturing inventory software enhance business management?
Manufacturing inventory tools within ERP platforms help manufacturers track materials, plan production, and fulfill orders efficiently. As part of an ERP solution, they tie into sales, finance, and procurement systems, offering end-to-end visibility for better business management.
8. What are some top ERP systems for the manufacturing industry?
Some of the top ERP software for manufacturers include Infor SyteLine ERP, NetSuite ERP, and Dynamics 365 Business Central. These platforms support a variety of industries and come with advanced tools for manufacturing resource planning, financial management, and supply chain integration, making them reliable solutions for manufacturing.
