ERP System Examples – Forbes Advisor

1. Microsoft Dynamics 365

Microsoft’s suite of Dynamics 365 software offers a variety of ERP options geared toward a broad range of business areas. The software is notable for its use of AI to provide insight into optimizing business operations. Microsoft bills its ERP systems as an excellent option for businesses that currently lack modern ERP software and still need to “break down” a siloed approach.

Dynamics 365 integrates seamlessly with LinkedIn Sales Navigator, a major plus for businesses already accustomed to this service, as they can continue using it without the need to implement a separate ERP tool. As part of its Dynamics line, Microsoft also offers CRM software that effortlessly integrates with its broader ERP systems. These features make Dynamics 365 a worthy consideration for businesses that interact heavily with customers and place a high value on solidifying customer relationships.

2. SYSPRO ERP

This ERP system is a popular choice for the manufacturing industry, as it’s noted particularly for its warehouse and inventory management capabilities. It’s well suited for the heavy demands of working with lots of other automated systems in production areas. SYSPRO boasts decades of industry experience, significant international reach and a 98% customer retention rate.

SYSPRO ERP stands out with a couple of interesting features: one is its “smart manufacturing” program, which relies on web-connected “smart platforms” that enhance software automation specifically in a factory setting. Another is its use of bots, or what it apparently unironically calls “digital citizens,” to help automate a company’s systems with minimal disruption to existing work patterns.

3. Odoo

Businesses of any size that deal heavily in sales and customer interactions might want to consider Odoo. Similar to Microsoft’s Dynamic 365 systems, Odoo offers a built-in CRM system, meaning its customers can look no further for third-party CRM software once using Odoo. The system also features POS and e-commerce tools that translate to effortless software integrations for retailers and vendors.

Odoo’s software relies on an open source model, affording its suite of applications a high degree of compatibility and ensuring easy integrations. This means developments from third-party sources can always reach their maximum potential within the Odoo environment.

4. Oracle NetSuite ERP

This industry-leading ERP system bills itself as the world’s “most trusted” cloud-based ERP software. NetSuite may be able to claim the title of the most deployed cloud ERP solution with over 32,000 companies as customers. NetSuite has built up as much direct experience with cloud-based ERP software as any developer out there, with roots in some of the earliest examples of cloud applications and ERP systems.

Now owned by Oracle, the company has retained its industry leader status and solidified its popularity through generalization. Its software products satisfy virtually every ERP need for companies in all sorts of industries. NetSuite ERP uses the model of a basic, core platform (covered by an annual licensing fee) with optional add-on modules. While the suite as a whole aims to provide an all-in-one solution, the à la carte options mean users are still paying only for the tools they need.

5. Brahmin Solutions

ERP software from Brahmin Solutions excels at large-scale, real-time inventory management, making it a worthwhile consideration for bigger retailers, wholesalers and distributors. Users rely on its ability to gracefully integrate the management of a distribution system with multiple sales channels and warehouses.

Brahmin Solutions is notable for integrating an expiration date tracking function designed for businesses handling perishable goods and other time-sensitive materials. This not only lets users track impending deadlines but also provides support for strategizing when to move what for maximum profit. The software is also noted for its thoughtful and comprehensive reporting systems.

6. SAP Business ByDesign

This cloud-based ERP system from SAP SE is designed with small to medium-sized companies and subsidiary businesses in mind. Business ByDesign’s popularity in this area is backed up by the fact that it’s deployed in nearly 150 countries. As a result, it’s grown to incorporate 11 other languages beyond English, making it a fitting choice for companies with international operations.

SAP’s Business ByDesign software does it all, with tools in areas as varied as grant management, supplier relationship management and executive support. A set of “prepackaged integrations” makes third-party applications exceptionally easy to build in.

7. Acumatica Cloud ERP

Acumatica’s Cloud ERP software brings an accounting-focused ERP solution to companies in search of powerful finance management tools. While it offers solutions for a variety of ERP needs, it’s particularly strong in its general ledger accounting and inventory management functions.

Along with a number of the examples listed here, the product is a software-as-a-service application licensed on a subscription basis and can be deployed both on-premises or via the cloud. The company’s unusual pricing structure makes estimating the applicable licensing costs more difficult than is the case with many of its peers.

8. Epicor ERP Systems

Epicor scraps the one-size-fits-all theory for EPR solutions, eschewing the popular model that builds optional add-ons atop a single generic base system. Instead, the company has a menu of distinct, hyper-specific ERP systems that each offer a tailor-fit solution to the ERP needs of a single industry. The company makes a point of addressing the needs of small, midsized and global businesses alike.

Examples of Epicor’s industry-tailored offerings include Epicor BisTrack for building materials businesses, Epicor Eagle for independent retailers, Epicor Kinetic for manufacturers and Epicor Eclipse for electrical, HVAC, plumbing and PVF businesses. Also offered are the aptly named Epicor LumberTrack, Epicor CMS Automotive and Epicor Decor Fusion (for paint and decor retailers), among other options.