Top 8 Infor CloudSuite Industrial Alternatives and Competitors
The top Infor CloudSuite Industrial alternatives include SAP S/4HANA, NetSuite, and Oracle ERP Cloud. In our analysis of the best manufacturing ERP software, we have ranked these alternatives based on factors like analytics capabilities and industry-specific compliance.
Best Infor CloudSuite Industrial Alternatives Shortlist
Below are detailed summaries of the best Infor CloudSuite Industrial alternatives that we’ll be covering in this article:
- SAP S/4HANA - For Complex Manufacturing
- NetSuite - For Global Operations
- Oracle ERP Cloud - Best Financial Management
- SYSPRO - Best for Process Manufacturing
- Acumatica - Great for Growing Manufacturers
- xTuple - Top Open-Source Pick
- Aptean Industrial Manufacturing - Best for Industrial Manufacturers
- Global Shop Solutions - Best for Custom Manufacturers
Understanding Infor CloudSuite Industrial and Its Limitations
Infor CloudSuite Industrial is a well-regarded name in the ERP arena, focusing on manufacturers and distributors. Despite its strengths in scalability and feature set, it has its own set of limitations.
The software’s user interface, while functional, is not as intuitive as some of the newer solutions in the market. It can require a steep learning curve for users not familiar with Infor’s system layout. It also lacks advanced data analytics and visualization features in its standard package, which would require additional investment in Infor’s other products like Birst for enhanced reporting capabilities.
1 SAP S/4HANA: For Complex Manufacturing
Why we chose it: SAP S/4HANA offers robust variant configuration for manufacturers dealing with complex manufacturing. These tools allow for efficient management of these product variations without creating numerous material numbers. Managing fewer material numbers means it’s easier to track, store, and replenish inventory. This leads to a reduced likelihood of stockouts or overstocks and optimizes storage space.
PLM tools in SAP S/4HANA support the complete product lifecycle, from initial conception and design to production and end-of-life. This is especially valuable for complex products with long lifecycle phases and iterative design processes.
Read our full SAP S/4HANA review.
2 NetSuite: For Global Operations
Why we chose it: NetSuite is our top pick for multinational firms due to its scalability and cloud-native architecture. Companies can operate across different regions fluently, handling multiple currencies and tax regulations, without the need to rework its foundational systems.
It also features multi-subsidiary customer and vendor records. With this feature, businesses can have a single view of customers and vendors across all subsidiaries, streamlining transaction processes like cross-subsidiary sales and invoicing.
Read our full NetSuite review.
3 Oracle ERP Cloud: Best Financial Management
Why we chose it: Oracle ERP Cloud is the best fit for businesses where nuanced financial management is important. It offers revenue management standards like ASC 606 and IFRS 15. This ensures companies can recognize revenue in line with global accounting standards.
Handling transactions between various business units or subsidiaries can be complex. Oracle ERP Cloud simplifies this process with automatic intercompany balancing, reconciliation, and discrepancy resolution.
4 SYSPRO: Best for Process Manufacturing
Why we chose it: SYSPRO prioritizes the integration of IoT and advanced Industry 4.0 technologies, aligning with the evolving needs and desires of process manufacturing. It provides tools to define and manage complex recipes and formulas, allowing process manufacturers to maintain precise ingredient specifications, track changes, and ensure consistency in production.
Furthermore, SYSPRO offers comprehensive lot and batch tracking capabilities. This ensures product quality, safety, and compliance by allowing for the recall of specific batches if issues arise.
Read our full SYSPRO review.
5 Acumatica: Great for Growing Manufacturers
Why we chose it: Acumatica offers a range of features specifically tailored to support the growth and scalability requirements of manufacturers. Unlike some ERPs that charge per user, Acumatica’s licensing is based on usage, not the number of users. This means growing manufacturers can add employees without incurring additional ERP costs.
It also has a built-in CRM system that integrates sales, marketing, and customer service functionalities. This helps growing manufacturers maintain and nurture customer relationships as their customer base expands.
Read our full Acumatica review.
6 xTuple: Top Open-Source Pick
Why we chose it: As an open-source platform, xTuple can be downloaded and used without the licensing fees associated with many proprietary ERP systems. This makes it a cost-effective option for businesses that have the technical expertise to manage and maintain the system.
One of the hallmarks of open-source software is its adaptability. Companies can modify xTuple’s source code to tailor the software to their specific needs. This allows businesses to create custom workflows, modules, and features without waiting for the software provider to roll out updates.
Read our full xTuple review.
7 Aptean Industrial Manufacturing: Best for Industrial Manufacturers
Why we chose it: Aptean Industrial Manufacturing ERP is a trusted solution for those deep in the industrial manufacturing sector. This is due to its bespoke tools, like detailed shop floor control, provide unparalleled oversight. An automotive parts manufacturer can reassign resources on-the-fly to meet an urgent client request.
It also has an in-depth shop floor control module. This provides manufacturers with real-time visibility into their production processes. Managers can monitor job status, track materials, and manage resources efficiently, ensuring timely production runs and optimal resource allocation.
Read our full Aptean Industrial Manufacturing review.
8 Global Shop Solutions: Best for Custom Manufacturers
Why we chose it. The APS tool in Global Shop Solutions helps customer manufacturers face the challenge of scheduling unique jobs with different requirements.It does this by optimizing production schedules, ensuring timely deliveries while maximizing machine and workforce utilization.
Its CAD interface integration allows manufacturers to directly import CAD drawings into the ERP system. For custom manufacturers, this seamless transition from design to production can greatly improve efficiency.
Read our full Global Shop Solutions review.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Infor CloudSuite Industrial Alternative
If you’re contemplating a shift from Infor CloudSuite Industrial, prioritize the following elements in your alternative solution:
- Predictive Analytics and Comprehensive Insights: Opt for platforms that not only provide real-time data analytics but also have robust predictive capabilities. For instance, consider systems that employ AI-driven insights to forecast potential supply chain disruptions or predict equipment failures.
- Integration Flexibility: One of Infor CloudSuite Industrial’s challenges is its integration capabilities with third-party tools. Your alternative should seamlessly integrate with a broad spectrum of third-party apps and platforms, ensuring your business tools work cohesively.
- Mobility Features: In today’s world, remote access and mobile management capabilities are indispensable. While Infor CloudSuite Industrial does provide mobile features, ensure your alternative offers advanced mobile management capabilities, enabling key decision-makers to oversee operations from anywhere.
- Holistic Inventory Management: For manufacturers, inventory control is paramount. Ensure your chosen alternative provides a comprehensive view of your inventory, offers tools for demand forecasting, and minimizes wastage through predictive restocking.
- Advanced Compliance Reporting With industries becoming more regulated, it’s essential for businesses to have robust compliance reporting tools. While Infor CloudSuite Industrial caters to discrete manufacturers, alternatives might offer more expansive compliance features catering to a wider array of industries.
Summary
When considering an alternative to Infor CloudSuite Industrial, businesses should seek features like enhanced predictive analytics, broader integration capabilities, advanced mobility features, and holistic inventory management.
An optimal replacement should promote streamlined operations, facilitate timely decision-making, and offer a cohesive understanding of the entire manufacturing chain. Our expert team is readily available to guide you to an ERP solution that perfectly complements your specific operational challenges.
Why consider an alternative to Infor CloudSuite Industrial?
While Infor CloudSuite Industrial is adept for discrete manufacturers, some businesses might feel the need for superior predictive analytics and wider integration options. For instance, a firm specializing in aerospace and defense might need real-time insights to forecast demand surges, something that other ERPs might cater to more comprehensively. Additionally, businesses in regulated sectors might desire more robust compliance reporting, nudging them towards a different ERP system.
Is Infor CloudSuite Industrial a full-suite system?
Yes, Infor CloudSuite Industrial is a full-suite ERP solution primarily geared towards discrete manufacturers. However, certain businesses might find it lacking in some advanced features like high-end data visualization or in-depth CRM capabilities without integrating additional modules.
Which sectors benefit most from alternatives to Infor CloudSuite Industrial?
Industries emphasizing real-time predictive analytics, holistic integration, and advanced inventory management — such as electronics manufacturing, automotive, or consumer goods production — might find alternatives to Infor CloudSuite Industrial more fitting. For example, an electronics manufacturer operating in multiple countries might want an ERP with a stronger global inventory tracking system.
