The manufacturing landscape has grown rapidly, driven by modern technologies and the growing need for efficiency among small businesses. And here comes the manufacturing software! The best manufacturing software for small businesses can dramatically enhance productivity and efficiency.
So, a wide range of manufacturing software has been built, but all of them may not be reliable for your business. As a result, choosing the right one can be critical. But don’t worry! As a productivity consultant, I’ve been helping my clients with their digital transformations over the years. Throughout this journey, I’ve considered dozens of ERP software and selected the top 10 best manufacturing software this year.
In this blog post, I will discuss those best options for your small business, considering their functionality, scalability, and user-friendliness. Join me on this journey to discover the best solution to propel your company in this dynamic marketplace in 2025.
Evaluating the 10 Best Manufacturing Software for Small Business
While working with a wide range of manufacturing software, here are my top ten choices.
Software #1: NetSuite
- Best for: Small to medium-sized manufacturers of medical and industrial devices
NetSuite is a comprehensive cloud-based ERP software for small businesses. It helps various business platforms, including manufacturing companies, run their operations more effectively. Moreover, it supports everything from demand planning to inventory control and warehouse operations.
| It provides various applications for controlling accounting, inventory, order processing, production, supply chain, and more.Includes real-time data and advanced analytics Reduce administrative worksIntegration with e-commerce and CRM toolsEasy to access from any device, including laptops, desktops, tablets and smartphones Highly secured |
What I Like
- Excellent scalability and visibility
- Highly customizable
- Easy to learn
- Powerful and impactful reporting tools
What I Don’t Like
- No fixed pricing
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Software #2: Odoo
- Best for customization, flexibility and budget-conscious businesses.
Odoo is an open-source ERP solution suitable for all sizes of manufacturing brands, from growing startups to large enterprises. It offers a variety of business applications, including eCommerce, CRM, accounting, inventory, sales, project management, website builder, POS, and more.
Therefore, Odoo shares a global network with more than 5,000 partners. A recent study says that Odoo has over 17,386 customers worldwide.
| Offers a total of 11 integrated business management app User-friendly interface with a drag-and-drop option for ease of ease Real-time access from any devices, including mobile devices Offers both Android and iOs accessBuilt with robust data security and privacy Comes with on-premise and cloud deployment mode A variety of customizable modules |
What I Like
- Budget-friendly option
- User-friendly interface
- Open source
What I Don’t Like
- Customer support may need a bit of improvement.
Software #3: Microsoft Dynamics 365
- Best for: Manufacturers already using other Microsoft tools.
Another reliable manufacturing software for small businesses is Microsoft’s Dynamics 365. What I like the most about this software is its versatility.
This cloud-based platform offers a wide range of advanced technologies, such as AI and Power BI. Additionally, Dynamics 365 integrates ERP and CRM functionalities into a unified solution.
| Seamless integration with other Microsoft technologies like Microsoft Office Suite, Azure, and Power platform AI-powered insights Supports both cloud and hybrid deployment Supply chain optimization Offers a wide range of applications for specific industry needs Modular applications and customization |
What I Like
- Effective integration with other Microsoft products
- Intuitive interface
What I Don’t Like
- Slightly more expensive for startup business
Software #4: MRPeasy
- Best for: Textiles or other startups and small manufacturers with a tight budget.
MRPeasy is a simple yet effective manufacturing resource planning (MRP) software specially designed for small businesses. It combines features like production scheduling, inventory management, and CRM into a single platform, making it a one-stop solution.
I also appreciate its competitive pricing and user-friendly interface. These features make it a great option for newbies who want to optimize their manufacturing processes.
| Production planning and visual scheduling Real-time monitoring and managing production progress Automates purchase order creation Integrates with third-party integrations like Xero and QuickBooks No need to install the software; it is easily accessible using web browsers |
What I Like
- Highly cost-effective
- Easy to use
What I Don’t Like
- Not enough for complex operations due to limited advanced features
Software #5: DELMIA Apriso
- Best for: Plastics and Rubber businesses and manufacturers requiring high control and compliance.
DELMIA Apriso is a high-quality and comprehensive manufacturing operations management (MOM) software. It ensures manufacturing operations work efficiently.
Besides, this system allows manufacturers to control and synchronize production operations with real-time monitoring. This software also offers features like purchase and supply chain collaboration, warehouse management, production planning and scheduling, and real-time analytics.
| Manufacturing execution system for production tracking Integrates with ERP and PLM systems Accessible through mobile devices Quality compliance tools |
What I Like
- Strong focus on real-time analysis and reporting
- Advanced and high-quality analytics
- Suitable for complex operations
What I Don’t Like
- Comparatively high price point
Software #6: Epicor
- Best for: Growing manufacturers looking for industry-specific tools
Epicor is a global ERP software solution for small to extended manufacturing, retail, distribution and service businesses. The best part of this manufacturing software is that it offers industry-specific solutions to enhance efficiency and streamline operations.
| Inventory and supply chain management Manufacturing management, including production planning, scheduling and shop floor controlFinancial, customer management, and HR management Cloud-based and on-premise deployment Provides real-time insights through advanced analytics and dashboards |
What I Like
- Mobile-friendly tools
- Industry-specific modules
- Top-level scalability
What I Don’t Like
- Slightly complex to learn
- Not a suitable option for a tight budget
Software #7: Infor CloudSuite
- Best for: Manufacturers looking for highly customizable options
Like Epicor ERP software, Infor CloudSuite is designed to support industry-specific needs. It’s a cloud-based ERP platform that includes the power of Infor Coleman AI and analytics to enhance operational efficiency and business growth. Overall, it is reliable and highly customizable ERP software for small businesses.
| Cloud-based deployment scalability, security and global accessibility End-to-end production tracking Advanced real-time analytics AI-powered automation and decision-making Integration capabilities with third-party tools |
What I Like
- An intuitive interface to improve usability
- Global accessibility
- End-to-end ERP
What I Don’t Like
- Slightly costly for small businesses
Software #8: JobBoss
- Best for: Job shops
JobBoss is a job shop management software specially designed for custom manufacturers. It provides a wide range of tools to generate quotes, orders, production, financials, and scheduling based on real-time data.
Additionally, this software provides flexible deployment options depending on your business needs. It ensures efficient operations and better customer service.
| Shop floor control and scheduling Inventory management monitoring raw materials to reduce waste and increase efficiency Tracks jobs, ensuring control and visibility Customizable reports for the analysis of operations and profitability |
What I Like
- Specific for job shops
- Easy to use
- Improved job costing
What I Don’t Like
- Limited advanced features and scalability
Software #9: SYSPro
- Best for: Overall, best for most manufacturers
SYSPro is a leading small business manufacturing software that focuses on streamlining core business operations. It provides industry-specific solutions to improve supply chain efficiency, productivity, and enhanced scalability. With both on-premise and cloud deployment, it ensures flexibility to integrate with various business needs.
| User-friendly interface and robust functionality Manages financial factors like budgeting, accounting and financial reporting Inventory optimization, supply chain management and CRM Real-time analytics and dashboards |
What I Like
- Excellent customer support and reliable
- Mobile friendly
- AI for process automation
What I Don’t Like
- The interface is not updated.
Software #10: Acumatica
- Best for: small businesses requiring integrated solutions
Last but not least, Acumatica is a cloud-based software that is one of the best manufacturing software for small businesses. It offers a one-stop solution for managing versatile core business functions like inventory, sales, finance and project management. Known for its flexibility, scalability, and cost-effective modules, Acumatica delivers industry-specific solutions while supporting integration with third-party tools.
| High-quality security and scalability Accessible from anywhere, anytime Advanced planning and scheduling Bills of Material (BOM) and routing |
What I Like
- Quite affordable for small business
- Flexibility and scalability
- Mobile access
What I Don’t Like
- Limited integration opportunity
Why Do I Need Manufacturing Software for My Small Business?
Manufacturing software is becoming a vital tool for small businesses trying to increase their competitiveness and streamline operations in the competitive manufacturing sector of today. These ERP systems, according to industry experts, assist factories in increasing productivity, improving efficiency, automating processes, and reducing costs in a variety of production-related areas.
Enhancing Efficiency and Productivity
Production scheduling and maintenance are examples of daily tasks that can be automated with manufacturing software. Additionally, by giving manufacturers access to real-time data, they may eliminate human error, focused on strategic planning and operations, and streamline steps.
Cost Saving and Management
Manufacturers can also optimize resource allocation and reduce operational costs by implementing manufacturing software. These software programs optimize inventory levels, minimize stockouts, and improve overall profitability.
Streamline operations
Additionally, manufacturing software integrates key business processes, including inventory management, quality control, and production planning, for flawless workflows. Providing real-time data and insights, it also allows small manufacturers to make informed decisions quickly. This streamlining process helps them focus on business growth and innovation rather than getting involved in manual tasks.
Scalability and Competitiveness
Small manufacturers can greatly benefit from Cloud-based solutions that offer flexibility, scalability, and data security. These solutions enable businesses to scale their IT infrastructure without requiring significant upfront investment or IT expertise.
Choosing the Best Manufacturing Software for Small Business
As previously mentioned, there is a wide range of manufacturing software available these days, making it difficult to choose the best one. Therefore, it is not a good idea to explore without a map. You should take into account a few important factors while selecting the best manufacturing software for your company.
- Inventory management: The first and foremost thing to look for. This feature is essential to avoid the dreaded stockout nightmare.
- Integration with existing systems: Integration with ERP or CRM platforms ensures that the software promotes the current technological infrastructure without disrupting it.
- Production Scheduling: Proper production scheduling significantly reduces waste and increases productivity. Remember, time is money, folks.
- Analytics and Reporting: Real-time analytics and reporting are essential for data-driven decisions. Choose a manufacturing software that gives insights into your manufacturing process, allowing you to notice areas for improvement and growth.
- User-friendly Interface: A startup or small business should prioritize the software interface. A simple yet intuitive interface design reduces the learning curve and enhances productivity.
Summing Up
Now that we know the best manufacturing software for small businesses, consider your needs, budget, and plans to select the right one. Ten of them I discussed here are incredible at what they do and provide robust features to enhance productivity and scale with your company.
But before committing, I suggest you take advantage of free trials and demos to examine different platforms. After all, I’m available to help you with anything related to your business. All you need to do is put your question in our comment section.
Let’s embrace digital transformation and let your small business thrive!