Can you imagine your factory floor running at peak efficiency, every process streamlined, every decision backed by real-time data?
In manufacturing, problems arise. But today, you can leverage smart technology to mitigate problems before they become disasters. This is the promise of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems for manufacturers.
By integrating key operations, from production to inventory, and finance to customer relations, ERP solutions offer the tools to grow, adapt, and beat out the competition.
In this article, we offer a variety of ERP system examples. We’’ll explore the top ERP systems in 2024, break down their core features, and showcase ERP success stories that demonstrate how these solutions transform manufacturing businesses like yours.
What Is ERP?
ERP systems, short for Enterprise Resource Planning, integrate all your business functions into a single platform. We’re talking production, supply chain management, financials, human resources, customer relations management, and more.
For manufacturers, ERP systems provide bird’s-eye-view visibility into operations, allowing your team to collaborate across departments and make smarter decisions based on centralized data.
ERP systems automate routine processes to reduce human error and free up resources and team members so they can spend more time innovating and accomplishing more important tasks.
Finally, you should know that the best ERP systems for manufacturers are designed to scale with your growing business, making it an easy decision to implement an ERP system when you realize spreadsheets and QuickBooks just aren’t cutting it anymore.
Learn more about ERP systems here.
ERP Examples: Top 5 ERP Systems in 2024
When we assess ERP systems, we’re focusing on the needs of our clients: manufacturers. We look at scope, scalability, ease-of-use, and what types of companies an ERP system is the best fit for. Here are the top 5 we’ve evaluated in 2024.
1. Infor SyteLine (CloudSuite Industrial)
Infor SyteLine, also known as CloudSuite Industrial, is our preferred ERP system at Godlan. Why? Because Infor SyteLine CloudSuite Industrial serves small-to-medium-sized manufacturers who are preparing for rapid growth – our favorite type of client.
We find that Infor SyteLine is particularly well tailored for manufacturers with complex production environments like Engineer-to-Order (ETO), Make-to-Order (MTO), and mixed-mode manufacturing. It offers features like advanced planning and scheduling, material requirements planning (MRP), and real-time shop floor data collection.
SyteLine also supports multi-site operations, making it a good fit for growing businesses or those expanding globally. Mid-level and major manufacturers such as Lenovo, Ferrari, Jaguar, Metcam, and Zildjian have leveraged Infor SyteLine to streamline operations and accommodate growth.
Infor SyteLine CSI also integrates well with additional tools like Prophecy IoT®, which uses the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) to offer deep factory floor insights.
Infor SyteLine offers cloud-based ERP, on-premise ERP, and hybrid solutions, depending on your needs.
SAP S/4HANA
SAP S/4HANA is an example of a massive ERP system known for its in-memory database technology, which enables real-time analytics and data processing. It is highly customizable, catering to industries with complex supply chains, such as automotive and aerospace. SAP S/4HANA is favored by large enterprises, including Daimler AG and Unilever, for its scalability and advanced automation capabilities, such as predictive analytics and AI-driven insights. Manufacturers benefit from integrated financial management, production planning, and supplier collaboration.
RELATED: Infor vs SAP: Which Is Right for You?
Oracle NetSuite
Oracle NetSuite is a cloud-based ERP solution often used by mid-sized manufacturers and retail businesses. It provides a broad range of functionalities, including order management, production scheduling, inventory management, and financial tracking. Its ability to integrate with eCommerce platforms makes it especially popular with companies like GoPro and Land O’Lakes. NetSuite is known for its user-friendly interface and rapid deployment capabilities, which can significantly reduce implementation time.
Microsoft Dynamics 365
Microsoft Dynamics 365 offers a flexible and modular ERP system that can be customized for manufacturing businesses of any size. It integrates seamlessly with Microsoft tools like Office 365, Power BI, and Azure, making it ideal for companies already invested in the Microsoft ecosystem. Coca-Cola and Hershey’s are notable users of Dynamics 365, which helps them manage operations ranging from supply chain logistics to sales and customer engagement. The solution also includes IoT integration for advanced machine monitoring and predictive maintenance.
Epicor ERP
Epicor is designed specifically for manufacturers, offering comprehensive solutions for production management, inventory control, and supply chain optimization. It’s particularly effective for discrete and process manufacturers in industries like automotive, electronics, and industrial machinery. Dixon Valve and other mid-sized manufacturers use Epicor to streamline complex manufacturing workflows and ensure efficient material usage. Epicor’s cloud and on-premise options provide flexibility based on business needs.
ERP System Examples: Features
For the newly initiated, here are some ERP system examples of common features. You can expect these ERP features with most options, though some ERP vendors may only offer them as paid add-ons.
Advanced Planning and Scheduling (APS)
Systems like Infor SyteLine provide APS to optimize production scheduling. Real-time data on material availability, workforce capacity, and machine performance allows manufacturers to optimize delivery schedules and eliminate production bottlenecks.
Material Requirements Planning (MRP)
MRP is an example of an ERP system feature that is essential for managing materials and production scheduling. It automates the calculation of material needs based on demand forecasts so that production has the necessary components without overstocking inventory.
Shop Floor Control
ERP systems enable real-time monitoring of the shop floor by tracking machine performance, work-in-progress inventory, and labor productivity. This feature allows for real-time data collection and predictive maintenance using IoT devices.
Quality Management
ERP systems often include integrated quality control modules that make sure products meet specified standards at every production stage. Oracle NetSuite and Infor SyteLine offer tools to monitor quality metrics, trace non-conformance, and streamline compliance reporting.
ERP System Examples: Modules
If you think of an ERP system like the central hub of a wheel that parses data from a variety of spokes, all moving together to keep the wheel turning, then you can think of ERP modules as the spokes. Each module is dedicated to a department, but the data is stored in the centralized hub for easy access. After all, you don’t want your right hand not knowing what the left is doing.
Here are some ERP examples of modules:
- Inventory Management: Tracks raw materials and finished products to optimize stock levels and minimize waste.
- Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Helps manage interactions with customers and prospects, from lead generation to after-sales support.
- Production Planning: Helps manage production schedules, monitor progress, and optimize the use of resources to meet demand.
- Supply Chain Management (SCM): Oversees the flow of goods, services, and information from suppliers to customers for efficiency in procurement and logistics.
- Financial Management: Centralizes financial operations such as accounts payable/receivable, budgeting, and general ledger, providing real-time visibility into financial performance.
- Human Resource Management (HRM): Manages employee data, payroll, recruitment, and performance tracking within the organization.
- Manufacturing Execution System (MES): Tracks the production process in real-time, ensuring quality control, and providing insights into machine efficiency and labor productivity.
These ERP modules highlight the versatility of ERP systems in managing all facets of manufacturing operations.
ERP Examples: Success Stories
These examples of ERP system success stories come straight from our collection. We’re proud to have helped the follownig manufacturers solve problems so they could continue to grow.
Arnold Machine
Arnold Machine, a custom machining and fabrication company, faced inefficiencies due to fragmented data systems. After implementing Infor SyteLine with Godlan’s help, they centralized their information, improving real-time access to accurate data. This allowed Arnold Machine to scale their business without worrying about data redundancy, while streamlining operations for future growth.
Read Arnold Machine’s full case study.
Metcam
Metcam, a precision fabricator of custom sheet metal products, utilized Godlan’s expertise to implement Infor SyteLine. This ERP solution allowed Metcam to integrate various departments, providing better visibility into production and financial data. The improved efficiency enabled them to expand without the growing pains typically associated with scaling operations
Read Metcam’s full case study.
Sportsman Boats
Sportsman Boats utilized Infor SyteLine to streamline order entry and eliminate errors during production. With the configurator feature, they drastically reduced mistakes in their Bill of Materials (BOM), increasing overall efficiency and speeding up the order process.
Read Sportsman Boats’ full case study.
Zildjian
Zildjian, the world-renowned cymbal manufacturer, partnered with Godlan to implement Infor SyteLine for an ERP upgrade. The goal was to enhance performance and operational efficiency across their business. The project improved data access, streamlined processes, and allowed for better decision-making through real-time insights. Zildjian credited Godlan’s hands-on support and deep expertise in making the upgrade and implementation smooth, which led to increased productivity across their manufacturing and business operations.
Read Zildjian’s full case study.
RELATED: More case studies from Godlan.
Ask Us for More ERP Examples
For manufacturing managers, selecting the right ERP system is paramount to achieving operational efficiency and growth. ERP system examples like Infor SyteLine, SAP S/4HANA, and Oracle NetSuite provide robust tools tailored to different manufacturing needs. Each ERP system offers unique features, whether it’s real-time data analytics, advanced scheduling, or integration with IoT for predictive maintenance.
With proven success stories across industries, ERP systems continue to transform manufacturing businesses by centralizing data, automating processes, and supporting growth.
Want to learn more? Schedule a consultation with Godlan’s experts today.
