Published 17 Jul 2023

9 Best Manufacturing Software of 2023

a plant manager using a manufacturing software

What is a Manufacturing Software?

Manufacturing software is a powerful digital tool that helps companies make production processes more efficient. By streamlining inventory, forecasting, and cash flow and ensuring compliance with quality and safety regulations, businesses can focus more on improving their products or services and planning for the future of their organization.

Importance

Manufacturing is a complex, multi-layered process. Each step, from production planning to final product deployment, requires constant and meticulous attention. The use of manufacturing process software is a must for the following reasons:

  • Streamline processes – Digitizing and automation facilitate overall efficiency and productivity. It reduces the time employees spend on tasks and minimizes or completely eradicates errors they may make.
  • Deliver accurate data – Aside from decreasing retrieval time, digitization through manufacturing software ensures that the information acquired is precise. This helps managers make better decisions for the company.
  • Monitor production from start to finish – Equipping existing machinery with cameras, sensors, and barcode readers allow managers to have full visibility of the shop floor. Monitoring reveals issues that may require immediate resolution and facilitates better documentation.
  • Reduce waste – In the manufacturing sector, waste refers to the physical material considered unnecessary and the extraneous step that does not add value to the end product. Manufacturing software finds these and ultimately saves the company on overhead costs.
  • Improve product quality – Any manufacturing company’s goal is to provide a high-quality product or service. Digital platforms offer managers the path toward that objective.

Key Features

Manufacturers who aren’t well-versed in digital solutions may think that an extensive cache of apps is a great idea. But when it comes to manufacturing software solutions, it would be best to stick to the essentials:

  • Supply chain visibility
  • Data digitization
  • Advanced planning and scheduling tools
  • Inventory management with barcode systems
  • Real-time monitoring with sensors
  • Advanced analytics
  • Real-time reporting
  • Integration with other systems
  • Collaborative tools
  • Compliance management
  • Quality assurance

Selecting the Right Manufacturing Software

Because there are numerous manufacturing software systems to choose from, it can be a challenge to find one best suited for your specific needs. The nine shortlisted above would be a great place to start. Here’s a quick summary:

Manufacturing Software Free Version Paid Plan Mobile App
SafetyCulture Yes $24/user/month* Yes
Katana No $99/user/month* Yes
Odoo Yes $7.25/user/month* Yes
DELMIAworks No Quote-based plan Android only
Fishbowl No Quote-based plan Yes
Global Shop Solutions No Available upon request Yes
Plex No Available upon request No
Kinetic by Epicor No Available upon request Yes
MasterControl No Available upon request No

* billed annually

Eunice

SafetyCulture staff writer

Eunice Arcilla Caburao

Eunice is a content contributor for SafetyCulture. A registered nurse, theater stage manager, Ultimate Frisbee athlete, and mother, Eunice has written a multitude of topics for over a decade now.

Eunice is a content contributor for SafetyCulture. A registered nurse, theater stage manager, Ultimate Frisbee athlete, and mother, Eunice has written a multitude of topics for over a decade now.