Author name: Shrestha Dash

Acumatica stands out among three cloud-native ERP vendors particularly focusing on small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), alongside NetSuite and Sage Intacct. On the other hand, similar to other upper mid-market ERP solutions like Infor LN, QAD, or Sage X3, IFS boasts extensive functionality that is tailored for companies heavy in asset and field service operations. Acumatica, however, caters well to companies with revenues ranging from $10-100 million, offering limited native localization features yet suitable synergies for global operations. Whereas, IFS is positioned for companies within the $100M – $1B revenue range, with a significant portion nearing the $1B mark. 

Acumatica’s strength lies in its multi-branch capabilities and tailored support for various business models such as manufacturing, distribution, construction, and field service. On the other hand, IFS boasts robust global, multi-entity capabilities and operates as a cloud-native solution. IFS not only delivers functional capabilities but also efficiently manages the transactional workload of upper-mid-market companies.

Acumatica also serves as an excellent entry-level system for companies transitioning from QuickBooks or smaller point systems, seeking seamless cross-functional integration. On the other hand, IFS appeals to enterprises seeking mature, industry-specific capabilities, reducing the need for extensive development with vanilla ERP systems like SAP or Oracle. Therefore, choosing between Acumatica vs IFS requires a detailed examination, and this comparison offers valuable insights for ERP selection projects. Let’s delve deeper into the specifics.

	Acumatica	IFS
Started in	2008	1986
Ownership by	EQT Partners in 2019	EQT
No. of customers	10,000+	6,500+

What is Acumatica?

Acumatica is one of three cloud-native ERP solutions particularly similar to NetSuite and Sage Intacct. It has extensive multi-branch capabilities, particularly making it friendlier for retail-centric operations. It can also host multiple business models as part of the same database spanning manufacturing, distribution, construction, and field service. Thus, making it friendlier for diverse manufacturing or distribution-centric operations. Because of its limited global operational capabilities, it primarily targets US and UK-based companies. Thus, positioned as an ideal choice for companies within the $10-100 million revenue range, the majority of Acumatica’s customer base falls under this category.

Desiring a user experience akin to Odoo or Quickbooks, Acumatica ERP also offers versatility to accommodate various business models: distribution, manufacturing, or construction-focused. Although Acumatica has limitations in mature features like dimensional inventory or allocation, it is an excellent initial system for companies looking to streamline inventory or costs. With transactional processing and some mature capabilities, such as batch transactional processing, Acumatica is positioned as a valuable choice for businesses venturing into their first or second ERP solution.

Acumatica ERP is a fit for companies seeking cloud-native experience, particularly emphasizing features like enterprise search and mobility over deeper operational capabilities. Despite its focus on small businesses, Acumatica lacks robust globalization and localization features, catering to a limited number of countries by default. This simplicity, however, benefits smaller companies by avoiding unnecessary layers of multi-entity operations. Although targeting small businesses, Acumatica ERP surpasses Odoo or Zoho with the flexibility of its data layers, necessitating consulting help for implementation. The perceived benefit of Acumatica’s pricing is also a challenge, as it’s notoriously difficult to understand and predict.

What Is IFS?

Similar to other upper mid-market ERP solutions like Infor LN, QAD, or Sage X3, IFS also boasts extensive functionality. This functionality is particularly tailored for companies heavy in asset and field service operations. Positioned uniquely in the market, IFS also appeals to enterprises seeking mature, industry-specific capabilities, reducing the need for extensive development with vanilla ERP systems like SAP or Oracle. IFS serves as an optimal alternative in the upper mid-market space, offering standalone best-of-breed asset management and field service capabilities or a comprehensive ERP solution meticulously crafted for asset-centric industries, including telco, energy, construction, MRO, airlines, and IT field services.

The IFS data model surpasses the complexity of smaller systems like Acumatica or NetSuite, demanding an experienced internal team and external advisory support to successfully align process and data codings with the intricate IFS data model. It is an ideal choice for upper mid-market companies outgrowing smaller systems, such as Acumatica or NetSuite, and requiring mature capabilities for enterprise-wide asset scheduling and maintenance. IFS not only delivers functional capabilities but also efficiently manages the transactional workload of upper-mid-market companies.

IFS boasts robust global, multi-entity capabilities and operates as a cloud-native solution. The majority of IFS customers fall within the $100M – $1B revenue range, with a significant portion nearing the $1B mark. While IFS has its roots in Europe, they have been trying to grow its presence in North America. In 2023, IFS made strategic acquisitions to enhance its AI and shop floor capabilities.

Acumatica vs IFS Comparison

Navigating the choice between Acumatica vs IFS is a significant decision for businesses particularly looking for operational efficiency and strategic alignment. Thus, this section delves into the comprehensive comparison of Acumatica vs IFS across various critical dimensions.

	Acumatica	IFS
Global Operational Capabilities	Limited multi-entity capabilities.	Has robust global multi-entity capabilities.
Diverse Capabilities	Operationally rich for smaller companies, supporting various business models in one database.	Companies with a diverse business model, such as manufacturing or expecting changes with the model, might struggle.
Best-of-breed Capabilities	Limited, relying on third-party add-ons.	Has one of the strongest field service and asset management capabilities.
Last-mile Capabilities	May require add-ons for specific micro-verticals.	Often require add-ons for specific micro-verticals.
Operational Functionalities	Offers deeper operational capabilities and integration for smaller operations in fewer countries.	The operational capabilities would be deeper in some areas, making it a best-of-breed option for enterprise-grade asset and field service-centric use cases used alongside another ERP as a corporate ledger.
Integration Capabilities	Natively-integrated WMS functionality, lacks pre-integrated best-of-breed CRM, supports only embedded CRM.	Good fit for those seeking best-of-breed field service capabilities for a subsidiary or integrated with a corporate financial ledger.
Manufacturing Capabilities	Suitable for light manufacturing, limited mature capabilities.	Has comparatively limited manufacturing capabilities.
Pricing Model	Consumption-based, named, and concurrent but requires long-term contracts.	Recurring subscription-based model
Key Modules	1. Financial Management 2. Construction Management 3. CRM 4. Distribution Management 5. Service Management 6. Manufacturing Management  7. Project Accounting Management 8. Payroll 9. Retail e-Commerce Management 10. Reporting, Dashboard and BI	1. Manufacturing 2. Supply Chain Management 3. Projects  4. Finance 5. Human Capital Management 6. Procurement 7. Customer Relationship Management 8. Commerce

Acumatica vs IFS Feature Comparison

Both platforms offer a plethora of features and functionalities designed to streamline business operations and enhance efficiency. In this feature comparison, we delve into particularly the distinct capabilities of Acumatica vs IFS across various critical dimensions, providing insights to aid businesses in making informed decisions regarding their ERP selection. Thus, this section discusses features under each of the following modules, particularly financial management, supply chain management, and manufacturing management.

Financial Management Comparison

In this section, we are discussing a detailed comparison of the financial management capabilities particularly offered by Acumatica vs IFS. By examining their respective strengths and functionalities, particularly in managing financial processes. Businesses can therefore gain valuable insights to determine the best-suited ERP solution for their financial management needs.

		Acumatica	IFS
Financial Management	General Ledger	Designed to support ledgers limited to support one country. Limited multi-ledger capabilities.	Centralizes financial data management, enabling accounting, reporting, and analysis.
	Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable	The AR and AP might be limited to just one country with limited synergies among vendors from different countries.	Streamlines customer invoicing, payment processes, vendor invoices and payments.
	Cash Flow Management	Manages day-to-day transactions, cash balances, funds transfers, and bank account reconciliations for smaller operations.	Enables accurate planning and forecasting of cash activities, and analyze liquidity and cash positions.
	Currency Management	Creates estimates for new or existing items, convert to bills of material, production orders.	Handles transactions in multiple currencies, automatically calculating exchange rates and converting transactions into the base currency.
	Tax Management	Provides centralized tax configuration, management, and reporting.	Automates and manages tax calculations, compliance, and reporting across multiple jurisdictions.

Supply Chain Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the supply chain management capabilities of Acumatica vs IFS, shedding light particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

		Acumatica	IFS
Supply Chain Management	Warehouse Management	Provides real-time inventory visibility and streamlines warehouse operations.	Enables businesses to efficiently manage warehouse operations by automating the physical storage and retrieval of inventory items.
	Service Management	Enables quick service needs capture, assignment, and real-time tracking, with features like contract management and appointment schedules.	Enables organizations to efficiently manage their field service operations, including planning, scheduling, dispatching, and also mobile workforce management.
	Inventory Management	Simplifies inventory processes with flexible item management and quality traceability.	Provides real-time visibility into stock movements, allowing businesses to maintain optimal inventory levels by setting reorder points and also reducing the risk of overstocking and stock-outs.
	Purchase Order Management	Streamlines procurement processes with policy enforcement and process controls.	Streamlines the procurement process by automating the creation, tracking, and approval of purchase orders, ensuring efficient and accurate order fulfillment.
	Sales Order Management	Centrally manages sales activities and tracks prices and inventory.	Efficiently handles the entire sales order process from quotation to invoicing, ensuring accurate order fulfillment and also real-time tracking across multiple sites.
	Requisition Management	Organizes complex distribution processes involving multiple products and suppliers.	Simplifies the procurement process by allowing users to create, track, and approve requisitions, ensuring that all purchase requests are efficiently managed and fulfilled.

Manufacturing Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the manufacturing management capabilities of Acumatica vs IFS, shedding light, particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

		Acumatica	IFS
Manufacturing Management	Production Planning	Assists manufacturers in addressing production demand with the agility to adjust to fluctuating schedules, unforeseen equipment malfunctions, delayed deliveries from suppliers, and other unexpected occurrences affecting operations on the factory floor.	Optimizes manufacturing processes by providing tools for capacity planning, production scheduling, material requirements planning, and also shop floor control, ensuring real-time visibility and efficiency.
	BOM and Routing	Lets you efficiently plan and manage inventories, costs and manufacturing processes.	Streamlines manufacturing by detailing the components and materials needed for production and also defining the sequence of operations required to produce a finished product.
	Advanced Planning and Scheduling	Lets you create a more streamlined and accurate production scheduled, better enforce delivery dates and optimize for capacity.	Enhances manufacturing efficiency by optimizing resource allocation, production schedules, and also material requirements through advanced algorithms and real-time data analysis.

Pros of Acumatica vs IFS

When evaluating ERP solutions, understanding the distinct advantages of Acumatica vs IFS is crucial. In this section, we are particularly exploring the strengths of Acumatica vs IFS across various dimensions. Thus, shedding light on their respective capabilities and functionalities.

Acumatica	IFS
Great 1st or 2nd ERP choice particularly due to limited layers and mature capabilities for larger companies.	One of the most consistent user experiences that have been rearchitected and modernized.
Accommodates different business models spread in fewer countries under one database.	One of the strongest asset-management capabilities particularly for organizations with very thick asset and predictive maintenance needs.
Great fit for SMB B2B businesses with complex product mixes.	Designed to particularly handle large programs where consolidated visibility would be critical without ad-hoc arrangements.
Born in the cloud with consistent design principles across the application.	Unique financial workflows to support complex project manufacturing programs.

Cons of Acumatica vs IFS

Just like recognizing strengths is important, it’s also crucial to weigh the specific drawbacks of Acumatica vs IFS. Therefore, in this section, we will delve into the limitations and challenges associated with Acumatica vs IFS across various operational and financial dimensions.

Acumatica	IFS
Limited capabilities when multiple countries with different currencies and sub-ledgers need to be hosted as part of the same solution.	Has a limited presence in North America and also a lean partner ecosystem.
Not fit for companies with over $100 million in revenue.	Companies with a diverse business model, might outgrow or struggle with the solution.
The mobile capabilities are leaner for complex reporting scenarios such as parallel processing or reporting labor.	Companies involved with the M&A or the ones part of the PE portfolio might not be the best fit for IFS.
Consumption-based pricing requires consulting expertise to estimate transactions as the pricing is not as predictable.	IFS might not be the best fit to be used just as the corporate ledger for large project manufacturing enterprises.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Acumatica vs IFS cater to distinct business needs, making the choice between the two dependent on an organization’s size, complexity, and industry focus. Acumatica, with its multi-branch and business model capabilities, is an excellent fit for small to mid-sized businesses in the $10-$100 million revenue range, particularly those looking for an entry-level ERP solution with a cloud-native experience. It offers a flexible and versatile system, particularly ideal for companies needing basic operational features without the burden of complex multi-entity or global capabilities. However, it may fall short for businesses requiring advanced global features and extensive asset management capabilities.

On the other hand, IFS is positioned for upper mid-market companies, particularly those with more complex operational needs in asset-centric industries such as energy, construction, and IT field services. Its robust multi-entity capabilities, combined with strong asset and field service management features, thus makes it a compelling choice for companies nearing or exceeding $1 billion in revenue. While IFS provides mature, industry-specific functionality, it demands a higher level of expertise for implementation and is best suited for enterprises looking for a sophisticated ERP solution with global reach and deep operational capabilities. 

Both systems have their strengths and limitations, so businesses should carefully evaluate their specific need. Also, seeking assistance from an independent ERP consultant can significantly aid the decision-making process. To get a 360-degree view of feature comparisons, it’s essential to explore not only Acumatica vs. IFS but also insights from other analyses such as Acumatica vs. NetSuite, SAP S/4 HANA, Oracle Cloud ERP, Dynamics F&O, Dynamics 365 BC, Infor LN, Infor M3, and Epicor Kinetic.

FAQs

Infor M3 targets companies surpassing entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica, Infor CSI, or NetSuite. On the other hand, Epicor Kinetic boasts a sophisticated data model, surpassing entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica or NetSuite. Infor M3 also delivers mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing and distribution operations. It is successful in the upper mid-market, targeting the $250M – $750M revenue range. Whereas, Epicor Kinetic is positioned for companies in the $50M – $750M revenue range and it has a strong customer base within this bracket.

Infor M3 provides a superior suite experience akin to SAP and Oracle, featuring enterprise-grade best-of-breed functionalities, including PLM, WMS, WFM, BI, and a Supply Chain collaboration platform. On the other hand, Epicor Kinetic excels in catering to manufacturing companies with formal processes. Its distinctive data model and BOM structure, coupled with robust planning capabilities for dimensional inventory, make it ideal for industries like metal, fasteners, fabrication, aerospace, automotive, and medical devices.

Infor M3 boasts extensive features tailored for process and apparel manufacturing, covering industries such as fashion, F&B, and chemicals. It is also adept at facilitating advanced global operations, particularly for companies spanning multiple countries seeking to optimize cost synergies globally. Whereas Epicor Kinetic is tailored for companies advancing beyond basic transactional processing, it targets those in need of mature manufacturing capabilities such as MRP, allocation, and scheduling. Therefore, choosing between Infor M3 vs Epicor Kinetic requires a detailed examination, and this comparison offers valuable insights for ERP selection projects. Let’s delve deeper into the specifics.

	Infor CloudSuite M3	Epicor Kinetic
Started in	2006 (Acquired by Infor)	Rebranding in 2021 (legacy version existed for more than 20 years)
Ownership by	Koch Industries	CD&R, over $57B in assets, and CVC with over $220B in assets
No. of customers	1,000+	23,000+

What Is Infor CloudSuite M3?

Infor CloudSuite M3, is one of Infor’s flagship solutions, catering to distinct micro-verticals across various industries. Sharing similar suites with Infor LN and built on the Infor OS platform, it is successful in the upper mid-market, targeting the $250M – $750M revenue range. Positioned for companies surpassing entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica, Infor CSI, or NetSuite, this solution delivers mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing and distribution operations. Infor CloudSuite M3 provides a superior suite experience akin to SAP and Oracle, featuring enterprise-grade best-of-breed functionalities, including PLM, WMS, WFM, BI, and a Supply Chain collaboration platform.

Infor CloudSuite M3 boasts extensive features tailored for process and apparel manufacturing, covering industries such as fashion, F&B, and chemicals. It is also adept at facilitating advanced global operations, particularly for companies spanning multiple countries seeking to optimize cost synergies globally. The native capabilities of Infor CloudSuite M3 address global trade and compliance concerns, which are particularly crucial for international business operations. 

While Infor CloudSuite M3 serves as an excellent operational solution for a 2-tier architecture for enterprise companies, its limited focus on certain industries might not be the best fit for enterprise companies diversifying their operations or aggressive with their M&A strategy. The intricate data model and Bill of Materials (BOM) demand significant internal expertise and also external advisory assistance to extract operational efficiencies. Notably, the technology landscape for Infor CloudSuite M3 remains somewhat patchy and less modern compared to its competitors. Furthermore, the ecosystem and consulting support for this solution is relatively limited. Despite these challenges, Infor CloudSuite M3 stands out as a robust manufacturing solution for upper mid-market companies with budget constraints.

What Is Epicor Kinetic?

Epicor Kinetic, their flagship solution, particularly excels in catering to manufacturing companies with formal processes. Its distinctive data model and BOM structure, coupled with robust planning capabilities for dimensional inventory, make it ideal for industries like metal, fasteners, fabrication, aerospace, automotive, and medical devices. Epicor Kinetic’s versatile data model addresses complex planning needs for companies particularly with diverse business models, encompassing manufacturing, distribution, and construction. Moreover, its advanced features support WBS-centric processes, enabling efficient management of large manufacturing programs with centralized cost tracking.

Epicor Kinetic boasts a sophisticated data model, surpassing entry-level ERP systems particularly like Acumatica or NetSuite. Tailored for companies advancing beyond basic transactional processing, it targets those in need of mature manufacturing capabilities such as MRP, allocation, and scheduling. Implementation success with Epicor Kinetic also requires substantial expertise in process and data coding, making it unsuitable for founder-led companies lacking seasoned operational and financial executives with ERP experience. Given its rigid revision model, companies with suboptimal SKU and BOM models may face challenges during implementation, emphasizing the need for robust internal capabilities and advisory support.

Epicor Kinetic has also undergone noteworthy technological advancements, adopting a look and feel reminiscent of Microsoft Dynamics ERP systems. Despite its legacy status, it supports mature cloud capabilities like enterprise search. Positioned for companies particularly in the $50M – $750M revenue range, it has a strong customer base within this bracket. Current limitations also include its field service capabilities, which are being addressed through an acquired add-on, and its finance and accounting module, not as tightly integrated as other modern cloud-native solutions.

Infor M3 vs Epicor Kinetic Comparison

Navigating the choice between Infor M3 vs Epicor Kinetic is a significant decision for businesses particularly looking for operational efficiency and strategic alignment. Thus, this section delves into the comprehensive comparison of Infor M3 vs Epicor Kinetic across various critical dimensions.

	Infor CloudSuite M3	Epicor Kinetic
Global Operational Capabilities	Robust financial hierarchies and global trade compliance functionality integrated.	The limited number of global and financial layers would require inefficient workarounds.
Diverse Capabilities	Supports diversified manufacturing business models.	The versatile data model addresses complex planning needs for companies with diverse business models.
Best-of-breed Capabilities	Best-of-breed integrations provided out-of-the-box.	Limited, relying on third party add-ons for field service and quality module.
Last-mile Capabilities	Last-mile capabilities along with breadth of capabilities for diversified manufacturing business models.	Pre-packaged capabilities for metal, automotive, and aerospace verticals.
Operational Functionalities	Legacy solution with limited cloud-natve capabilities.	Equipped with strong mixed-mode manufacturing capabilities, and strong WBS-centric processes.
Integration Capabilities	Tools such as HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are pre-integrated.	With out-of-the-box MES functionality, particularly appeals to smaller companies seeking pre-integrated Industry 4.0 capabilities.
Manufacturing Capabilities	Delivers mature capabilities for apparel, F&B, and chemical manufacturing.	Manufacturing organizations with formal processes and revision numbers will relate more.
Pricing Model	Subscription-based	Per user, monthly.
Key Modules	1. Financial Management 2. Manufacturing Operations 3. Enterprise Asset Management 4. Supply Chain Management 5. Customer Sales and Service 6. Application Foundation	1. Financial Management 2. Supply Chain Management 3. Production Management 4. Risk and Compliance 5. Customer Relationship Management 6. Project Management 7. Cloud Business Platform 8. Business Intelligence and Analytics 9. Planning and Scheduling 10. Services and Assets 11. Omnichannel Sales 12. Product Management 13. Global Business Management

Infor M3 vs Epicor Kinetic Feature Comparison

Both platforms offer a plethora of features and functionalities designed to streamline business operations and enhance efficiency. In this feature comparison, we delve into particularly the distinct capabilities of Infor M3 vs Epicor Kinetic across various critical dimensions, providing insights to aid businesses in making informed decisions regarding their ERP selection. Thus, this section discusses features under each of the following modules, particularly financial management, supply chain management, and manufacturing management.

Financial Management Comparison

In this section, we are discussing a detailed comparison of the financial management capabilities particularly offered by Infor M3 vs Epicor Kinetic. By examining their respective strengths and functionalities, particularly in managing financial processes. Businesses can therefore gain valuable insights to determine the best-suited ERP solution for their financial management needs.

		Infor CloudSuite M3	Epicor Kinetic
Financial Management	General Ledger	Enables organizations to manage financial transactions, maintain accurate balances, and generate complete financial statements.	It is a customizable, secure core component of its Financial Management suite. Offers accounting controls, seamless integration with other financial modules, global capabilities, and also advanced reporting tools.
	Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable	Supports analysis across all accounting dimensions, including non-reconciled data for the AP model.	Includes AR (managing invoicing, credit, cash, and customer payments) and AP (automating invoice processing, supporting multiple payment methods, and tracking expenses).
	Cash Flow Management	Provides complete control over accounts receivable and cash flow processes, unifying all AR information to monitor cash collection and enhance productivity and efficiency.	Features automated cash handling, bank reconciliation, multi-currency and multi-bank management, integration with other financial modules, and also real-time reporting and analysis.
	Currency Management	Enables currency conversion for better monetary analysis, allowing amounts to be expressed in transaction, division, and company currencies, with a default exchange rate type for conversions.	Simplifies multi-currency transactions, automates exchange rate management, integrates with other financial modules, ensures global compliance, and provides real-time reporting and analysis.
	Tax Management	Ensures accurate VAT calculation and recording for each country, automating tax calculations based on recipient location and country-specific rules, and maintaining financial compliance.	Automates sales and use tax calculations, integrates with financial modules, supports multiple jurisdictions, provides real-time updates, and simplifies reporting and filing.

Supply Chain Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the supply chain management capabilities of Infor M3 vs Epicor Kinetic, shedding light particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

		Infor CloudSuite M3	Epicor Kinetic
Supply Chain Management	Warehouse Management	Optimizes operations with inventory management, labor management, 3PL billing, and 3D visualization, enhancing efficiency and interactivity.	Optimizes operations with real-time inventory tracking, advanced material management, seamless integration with other systems, and configurable workflows.
	Service Management	Offers work order processing, maintenance, material management, and operation reporting, aiding global manufacturers, distributors, and after-sales service providers in managing complex value chains efficiently.	Streamlines operations with maintenance management, service contract handling, case management, RMA tracking, and real-time insights for efficient equipment upkeep and customer support.
	Inventory Management	Provides advanced statistical forecasting and stock recommendations for efficient inventory management, as well as supplier and customer rebate management to maintain high margins.	Optimizes processes with detailed tracking, smart planning, advanced units of measure, automated purchase contracts, and seamless integration with supply chain and production modules.
	Purchase Order Management	Includes automation, vendor payment tracking, payment scheduling, check printing, open purchase order alerts, document management, direct ACH bill payment, and vendor records.	Streamlines procurement with tools for supplier negotiations, order tracking, automated processes, and supplier relationship management.
	Requisition Management	Automates procurement processes from requisition to payment, including supplier selection, purchase order management, and invoice matching.	Automates procurement with real-time budget checks, vendor support, standing and blanket orders, multi-level approvals, and effective expenditure management.

Manufacturing Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the manufacturing management capabilities of Infor M3 vs Epicor Kinetic, shedding light, particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

		Infor CloudSuite M3	Epicor Kinetic
Manufacturing Management	Production Planning	Assists manufacturers in addressing production demand with the agility to adjust to fluctuating schedules, unforeseen equipment malfunctions, delayed deliveries from suppliers, and other unexpected occurrences affecting operations on the factory floor.	Enhances manufacturing efficiency with Master Production Scheduling, Material Requirements Planning, Advanced Planning and Scheduling, Job Management, Lean Manufacturing, Quality Management, and Advanced MES for real-time monitoring.
	BOM and Routing	Let’s you efficiently plan and manage inventories, costs and manufacturing processes.	Streamlines production with multi-level BOM management, dynamic BOM creation, CAD and PLM integration, strong change control, centralized routing management, detailed routing steps, real-time adjustments, and precise cost and time estimation.
	Advanced Planning and Scheduling	Lets you create a more streamlined and accurate production scheduled, better enforce delivery dates and optimize for capacity.	Enhances production efficiency with automated scheduling, flexible capacity planning, real-time adjustments, what-if scenarios, integrated material constraints, and multi-site management.

Pros of Infor M3 vs Epicor Kinetic

When evaluating ERP solutions, understanding the distinct advantages of Infor M3 vs Epicor Kinetic is crucial. In this section, we are particularly exploring the strengths of Infor M3 vs Epicor Kinetic across various dimensions. Thus, shedding light on their respective capabilities and functionalities.

Infor CloudSuite M3	Epicor Kinetic
Ideal for upper mid-market companies or as subsidiary solutions in a two-tier setting for private equity-owned or holding companies.	Epicor has a very similar look and feel to Microsoft ERP products, providing you with the same experience but with much deeper last-mile capabilities.
It can support multi-entity and supply-chain collaboration with international vendors, but the global footprint might not be as comprehensive as that of larger peers such as SAP S/4 HANA.	90% of the capabilities required by verticals such as metal, automotive, and aerospace are pre-packaged with the core platform.
Most tools that process and apparel manufacturers would require, such as HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated with Infor CloudSuite M3.	Great fit for manufacturing organizations that follow formal manufacturing processes with revision numbers.
While most smaller solutions might require ad-hoc arrangements for global financial operations, Infor CloudSuite M3 has them natively built.	Although a legacy product, it includes mature cloud capabilities such as enterprise search and transactional maps for end-to-end transactional traceability.

Cons of Infor M3 vs Epicor Kinetic

Just like recognizing strengths is important, it’s also crucial to weigh the specific drawbacks of Infor M3 vs Epicor Kinetic. Therefore, in this section, we will delve into the limitations and challenges associated with Infor M3 vs Epicor Kinetic across various operational and financial dimensions.

Infor CloudSuite M3	Epicor Kinetic
The limited focus on certain business models poses the risk of requiring other ERP systems to support complex and diverse business operations.	The data layers are highly detailed, requiring substantial consulting help to be successful with the product.
Private equity and holding companies requiring global solutions with a tier-2 solution at the subsidiary level might not be the best use of Infor CloudSuite M3’s strengths.	The limited focus on certain business models poses the risk of requiring other ERP systems to support complex and diverse business operations.
Infor CloudSuite M3 is a legacy solution with limited cloud-native capabilities such as universal search, mobile experience, etc.	The field service capabilities are not as embedded and proven as some of the other products.
The consulting base and marketplaces are virtually non-existent for Infor CloudSuite M3.	Epicor takes a suite approach to its products while selling directly to its customers. This limits the overall consulting and marketplace penetration.
Verticals such as apparel manufacturing demand deeper integration of PLM, vendor portals, and merchandising solutions to effectively manage their unique processes.	Requires ad-hoc arrangements for larger mid-market companies with more than three financial hierarchies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both Infor M3 vs Epicor Kinetic present robust ERP solutions, each with distinct strengths that cater to different business needs and market segments. Infor M3 is ideally suited for upper mid-market companies, especially those in industries like fashion, food and beverage, and chemicals, that require sophisticated manufacturing capabilities and global operational support. Its extensive suite of integrated tools and best-of-breed functionalities make it a compelling choice for companies particularly seeking a comprehensive, enterprise-grade ERP solution. However, its legacy system architecture and limited focus on certain business models may necessitate supplementary ERP systems for companies with diverse and complex operations.

On the other hand, Epicor Kinetic excels in supporting manufacturing companies with formal processes, particularly in sectors such as metal, aerospace, and automotive. Its modernized interface and advanced planning capabilities make it a strong contender for mid-market companies that demand precise control over manufacturing operations and also supply chain management. While Epicor Kinetic offers deep vertical capabilities, its reliance on external consulting for detailed data layers and some limitations in global financial operations may pose challenges for larger, more complex organizations. 

Both systems have their strengths and limitations, so businesses should carefully evaluate their specific needs and growth aspirations to determine the most suitable ERP solution. Also, seeking assistance from an independent ERP consultant can significantly aid the decision-making process. To get a 360-degree view of feature comparisons, it’s essential to explore not only Infor M3 vs. Epicor Kinetic but also insights from other analyses such as Infor M3 vs. NetSuite, SAP S/4 HANA, Oracle Cloud ERP, MS Dynamics 365 F&O, MS Dynamics 365 BC, Acumatica, and Infor CloudSuite LN.

FAQs

Infor LN surpasses entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica, Infor CSI, or NetSuite, by delivering mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing intertwined with distribution operations. On the other hand, Epicor Kinetic boasts a sophisticated data model, surpassing entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica or NetSuite. Infor LN is also successful in the upper mid-market, targeting the $250M – $750M revenue range. On the other hand, Epicor Kinetic is positioned for companies in the $50M – $750M revenue range and it has a strong customer base within this bracket.

Infor LN also provides a superior suite experience akin to SAP and Oracle, featuring enterprise-grade best-of-breed functionalities, including PLM, WMS, WFM, BI, and a supply chain collaboration platform. On the other hand, Epicor Kinetic excels in catering to manufacturing companies with formal processes. Its distinctive data model and BOM structure, coupled with robust planning capabilities for dimensional inventory, make it ideal for industries like metal, fasteners, fabrication, aerospace, automotive, and medical devices.

While Infor LN excels in discrete manufacturing and offers a robust suite experience, it does face certain challenges in specific scenarios such as with process-centric operations for companies. Whereas, Epicor Kinetic is tailored for companies advancing beyond basic transactional processing, it targets those in need of mature manufacturing capabilities such as MRP, allocation, and scheduling. Therefore, choosing between Infor LN vs Epicor Kinetic requires a detailed examination, and this comparison offers valuable insights for ERP selection projects. Let’s delve deeper into the specifics.

	Infor CloudSuite LN	Epicor Kinetic
Started in	2006 (when Infor acquired BaaN)	Rebranding in 2021 (legacy version existed for more than 20 years)
Ownership by	Koch Industries	CD&R, over $57B in assets, and CVC with over $220B in assets
No. of customers	1,000+	23,000+

What Is Infor CloudSuite LN?

Infor CloudSuite LN is a complete product suite to meet the needs of an enterprise similar to Epicor, SAP, Oracle, or Microsoft. Infor is also perhaps the only vendor after the larger ones that has the capabilities to build best-of-breed architecture akin to SAP, Oracle, and Microsoft. In fact, Infor might have deeper capabilities than Microsoft in some areas with pre-integrated best-of-breed solutions such as Infor WFM and Nexus. Infor is also the only vendor that can provide depth in several industries while not struggling with the transactional processing requirements of large accounts.

Infor LN is ideal for particularly discrete manufacturing companies. It is successful in the upper mid-market, targeting the $250M – $750M revenue range. Positioned for companies surpassing entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica, Infor CSI, or NetSuite, this solution also delivers mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing intertwined with distribution operations. Infor LN also provides a superior suite experience akin to SAP and Oracle, featuring enterprise-grade best-of-breed functionalities, including PLM, WMS, WFM, BI, and a supply chain collaboration platform.

While Infor LN excels in discrete manufacturing and offers a robust suite experience, it does face certain challenges in specific scenarios such as with process-centric operations for companies. They might also include business operations such as plastic or chemicals as part of their automotive operations. Despite limitations in broader capabilities compared to other vanilla solutions, recent upgrades acknowledge its broader application in various automotive business models.

What Is Epicor Kinetic?

Epicor Kinetic, their flagship solution, particularly excels in catering to manufacturing companies with formal processes. Its distinctive data model and BOM structure, coupled with robust planning capabilities for dimensional inventory, make it ideal for industries like metal, fasteners, fabrication, aerospace, automotive, and medical devices. Epicor Kinetic’s versatile data model addresses complex planning needs for companies particularly with diverse business models, encompassing manufacturing, distribution, and construction. Moreover, its advanced features support WBS-centric processes, enabling efficient management of large manufacturing programs with centralized cost tracking.

Epicor Kinetic boasts a sophisticated data model, surpassing entry-level ERP systems particularly like Acumatica or NetSuite. Tailored for companies advancing beyond basic transactional processing, it targets those in need of mature manufacturing capabilities such as MRP, allocation, and scheduling. Implementation success with Epicor Kinetic also requires substantial expertise in process and data coding, making it unsuitable for founder-led companies lacking seasoned operational and financial executives with ERP experience. Given its rigid revision model, companies with suboptimal SKU and BOM models may face challenges during implementation, emphasizing the need for robust internal capabilities and advisory support.

Epicor Kinetic has also undergone noteworthy technological advancements, adopting a look and feel reminiscent of Microsoft Dynamics ERP systems. Despite its legacy status, it supports mature cloud capabilities like enterprise search. Positioned for companies particularly in the $50M – $750M revenue range, it has a strong customer base within this bracket. Current limitations also include its field service capabilities, which are being addressed through an acquired add-on, and its finance and accounting module, not as tightly integrated as other modern cloud-native solutions.

Infor LN vs Epicor Kinetic Comparison

Navigating the choice between Infor LN vs Epicor Kinetic is a significant decision for businesses particularly looking for operational efficiency and strategic alignment. Thus, this section delves into the comprehensive comparison of Infor LN vs Epicor Kinetic across various critical dimensions.

	Infor CloudSuite LN	Epicor Kinetic
Global Operational Capabilities	Has financial hierarchy layers and pre-baked global trade compliance functionalities.	The limited number of global and financial layers would require inefficient workarounds.
Diverse Capabilities	Limited focus on certain business models.	The versatile data model addresses complex planning needs for companies with diverse business models.
Best-of-breed Capabilities	HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated.	Limited, relying on third party add-ons for field service and quality module.
Last-mile Capabilities	Present along with breadth of capabilities for diversified manufacturing business models.	Pre-packaged capabilities for metal, automotive, and aerospace verticals.
Operational Functionalities	Legacy solution with limited cloud-native capabilities.	Equipped with strong mixed-mode manufacturing capabilities, and strong WBS-centric processes.
Integration Capabilities	Manufacturing tools, such as HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are pre-integrated.	With out-of-the-box MES functionality, particularly appeals to smaller companies seeking pre-integrated Industry 4.0 capabilities.
Manufacturing Capabilities	Mature capabilities for manufacturing and distribution operations.	Manufacturing organizations with formal processes and revision numbers will relate more.
Pricing Model	Subscription-based	Per user, monthly.
Key Modules	1. Financials 2. Human Resources 3. Manufacturing Management 4. Inventory Management 5. Purchasing Management 6. Quality Management 7. Sales Management 8. Product Technology	1. Financial Management 2. Supply Chain Management 3. Production Management 4. Risk and Compliance 5. Customer Relationship Management 6. Project Management 7. Cloud Business Platform 8. Business Intelligence and Analytics 9. Planning and Scheduling 10. Services and Assets 11. Omnichannel Sales 12. Product Management 13. Global Business Management

Infor LN vs Epicor Kinetic Feature Comparison

Both platforms offer a plethora of features and functionalities designed to streamline business operations and enhance efficiency. In this feature comparison, we delve into particularly the distinct capabilities of Infor LN vs Epicor Kinetic across various critical dimensions, providing insights to aid businesses in making informed decisions regarding their ERP selection. Thus, this section discusses features under each of the following modules, particularly financial management, supply chain management, and manufacturing management.

Financial Management Comparison

In this section, we are discussing a detailed comparison of the financial management capabilities particularly offered by Infor LN vs Epicor Kinetic. By examining their respective strengths and functionalities, particularly in managing financial processes. Businesses can therefore gain valuable insights to determine the best-suited ERP solution for their financial management needs.

		Infor CloudSuite LN	Epicor Kinetic
Financial Management	General Ledger	The General Ledger is the core component of Infor LN Financials, recording all transactions within the application that affect accounting.	It is a customizable, secure core component of its Financial Management suite. Offers accounting controls, seamless integration with other financial modules, global capabilities, and also advanced reporting tools.
	Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable	AR manages customer invoices and credit, while AP handles supplier invoices and balance management.	Includes AR (managing invoicing, credit, cash, and customer payments) and AP (automating invoice processing, supporting multiple payment methods, and tracking expenses).
	Cash Flow Management	Cash Management handles cash-related transactions, primarily involving payments to and receipts from business partners.	Features automated cash handling, bank reconciliation, multi-currency and multi-bank management, integration with other financial modules, and also real-time reporting and analysis.
	Currency Management	The LN multicurrency systems allow a company to conduct accounting in multiple currencies, calculating and registering amounts in up to three currencies.	Simplifies multi-currency transactions, automates exchange rate management, integrates with other financial modules, ensures global compliance, and provides real-time reporting and analysis.
	Tax Management	Tax reporting is part of financial accounting and is limited to one country, so LN’s tax handling in a multicompany structure is similar to that in a single company environment.	Automates sales and use tax calculations, integrates with financial modules, supports multiple jurisdictions, provides real-time updates, and simplifies reporting and filing.

Supply Chain Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the supply chain management capabilities of Infor LN vs Epicor Kinetic, shedding light particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

		Infor CloudSuite LN	Epicor Kinetic
Supply Chain Management	Warehouse Management	Warehousing focuses on managing and replenishing goods within a warehouse, including tasks to report and analyze inventory movements.	Optimizes operations with real-time inventory tracking, advanced material management, seamless integration with other systems, and configurable workflows.
	Service Management	Manages the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of field-based and plant-based products, equipment, and systems.	Streamlines operations with maintenance management, service contract handling, case management, RMA tracking, and real-time insights for efficient equipment upkeep and customer support.
	Inventory Management	Can support complex inventory types including dedicated inventory masters for MRO or quality components for added granularity and control	Optimizes processes with detailed tracking, smart planning, advanced units of measure, automated purchase contracts, and seamless integration with supply chain and production modules.
	Purchase Order Management	Can create and modify purchase orders for purchasing goods.	Streamlines procurement with tools for supplier negotiations, order tracking, automated processes, and supplier relationship management.
	Sales Order Management	They are utilized to sell and deliver items or services to a sold-to business partner under specific terms and conditions, originating from various sources like Contracts, Quotations, EDI, and Planning.	Streamlines sales with features for order tracking, automation, estimating, cross-functional collaboration, and eCommerce integration.
	Requisition Management	Specifies nonsystem planned requirements for different types of items, including inventory items, cost items, and service items.	Automates procurement with real-time budget checks, vendor support, standing and blanket orders, multi-level approvals, and effective expenditure management.

Manufacturing Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the manufacturing management capabilities of Infor LN vs Epicor Kinetic, shedding light, particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

		Infor CloudSuite LN	Epicor Kinetic
Manufacturing Management	Production Planning	One of the most robust production planning capabilities including advanced planning and scheduling capabilities for diverse manufacturing operations.	Enhances manufacturing efficiency with Master Production Scheduling, Material Requirements Planning, Advanced Planning and Scheduling, Job Management, Lean Manufacturing, Quality Management, and Advanced MES for real-time monitoring.
	BOM and Routing	It is stored as general item data for LN in Item Production Data (IPD).	Streamlines production with multi-level BOM management, dynamic BOM creation, CAD and PLM integration, strong change control, centralized routing management, detailed routing steps, real-time adjustments, and precise cost and time estimation.
	Advanced Planning and Scheduling	Stores scheduling information for projects, allowing you to define project plans along with associated activities and milestones.	Enhances production efficiency with automated scheduling, flexible capacity planning, real-time adjustments, what-if scenarios, integrated material constraints, and multi-site management.

Pros of Infor LN vs Epicor Kinetic

When evaluating ERP solutions, understanding the distinct advantages of Infor LN vs Epicor Kinetic is crucial. In this section, we are particularly exploring the strengths of Infor LN vs Epicor Kinetic across various dimensions. Thus, shedding light on their respective capabilities and functionalities.

Infor CloudSuite LN	Epicor Kinetic
Ideal for upper mid-market companies or as subsidiary solutions in a two-tier setting for private equity-owned or holding companies.	Epicor has a very similar look and feel to Microsoft ERP products, providing you with the same experience but with much deeper last-mile capabilities.
It can support the most complex manufacturing business models, WBS-centric manufacturing, or support for attributes with MRP planning.	90% of the capabilities required by verticals such as metal, automotive, and aerospace are pre-packaged with the core platform.
Most tools that make-to manufacturer would require, such as HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated with LN.	Great fit for manufacturing organizations that follow formal manufacturing processes with revision numbers.
While most smaller solutions might require ad-hoc arrangements for global financial operations, Infor CloudSuite LN has them natively built.	Although a legacy product, it includes mature cloud capabilities such as enterprise search and transactional maps for end-to-end transactional traceability.

Cons of Infor LN vs Epicor Kinetic

Just like recognizing strengths is important, it’s also crucial to weigh the specific drawbacks of Infor LN vs Epicor Kinetic. Therefore, in this section, we will delve into the limitations and challenges associated with Infor LN vs Epicor Kinetic across various operational and financial dimensions.

Infor CloudSuite LN	Epicor Kinetic
The limited focus on certain business models poses the risk of requiring other ERP systems to support complex and diverse business operations such as process manufacturing or metal-centric A&D companies.	The data layers are highly detailed, requiring substantial consulting help to be successful with the product.
Private equity and holding companies requiring global solutions with a tier-2 solution at the subsidiary level might not be the best use of Infor LN’s strengths.	The limited focus on certain business models poses the risk of requiring other ERP systems to support complex and diverse business operations.
Infor LN is a legacy solution with limited cloud-native capabilities such as universal search, mobile experience, etc	The field service capabilities are not as embedded and proven as some of the other products.
The consulting base and marketplaces are virtually non-existent for Infor LN.	Epicor takes a suite approach to its products while selling directly to its customers. This limits the overall consulting and marketplace penetration.
The integration of Infor LN with MES enhances its capabilities, particularly in complex manufacturing processes.	Requires ad-hoc arrangements for larger mid-market companies with more than three financial hierarchies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both Infor LN vs Epicor Kinetic offer robust ERP solutions tailored to specific market segments and industry needs. Infor LN excels in supporting upper mid-market companies, particularly in discrete manufacturing sectors such as automotive, aerospace, and high tech. Its comprehensive suite of pre-integrated tools and global capabilities make it a strong candidate particularly for complex manufacturing operations. However, its legacy status and limited focus on certain business models may require additional systems for more diverse operations. 

In contrast, Epicor Kinetic is well-suited for a broader range of mid-market companies, with a focus on industries like metal, fabrication, and medical devices. Its sophisticated data model and strong planning capabilities offer significant advantages for companies particularly needing mature manufacturing processes. Yet, its reliance on third-party add-ons and limited global capabilities may present challenges for larger organizations with more intricate operational requirements.

Both systems have their strengths and limitations, so businesses should carefully evaluate their specific needs and growth aspirations to determine the most suitable ERP solution. Also, seeking assistance from an independent ERP consultant can significantly aid the decision-making process. To get a 360-degree view of feature comparisons, it’s essential to explore not only Infor LN vs. Epicor Kinetic but also insights from other analyses such as Infor LN vs. NetSuite, SAP S/4 HANA, Oracle Cloud ERP, MS Dynamics 365 F&O, MS Dynamics 365 BC, Acumatica, and Infor CloudSuite M3.

FAQs

Oracle ERP Cloud remains a top choice for large companies across diverse industries, particularly media, telecommunications, construction, energy, oil and gas, and healthcare. Despite the need for internal IT expertise, it is also suitable for companies with a need to integrate various third-party software systems. In contrast, Epicor Kinetic boasts a sophisticated data model, surpassing entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica or NetSuite. Oracle Cloud ERP targets large, global companies with revenues generally exceeding $1 billion, offering consolidation in a unified database for diverse business models. Whereas, Epicor Kinetic is positioned for companies in the $50M – $750M revenue range and it has a strong customer base within this bracket.

Oracle Cloud ERP particularly caters to companies needing ledger-level security and hierarchical financial reporting. Additionally, Oracle Cloud ERP seamlessly integrates a powerful HCM solution along with a natively integrated EPM solution. Whereas, Epicor Kinetic excels in catering to manufacturing companies with formal processes. Its distinctive data model and BOM structure, coupled with robust planning capabilities for dimensional inventory, make it ideal for industries like metal, fasteners, fabrication, aerospace, automotive, and medical devices.

Oracle Cloud ERP is also a superior fit for service-centric industries as it excels in risk management, advertising, and Cx cloud. On the other hand, Epicor Kinetic is tailored for companies advancing beyond basic transactional processing, it targets those in need of mature manufacturing capabilities such as MRP, allocation, and scheduling. Therefore, choosing between Oracle Cloud ERP vs Epicor Kinetic requires a detailed examination, and this comparison offers valuable insights for ERP selection projects. Let’s delve deeper into the specifics.

	Oracle Cloud ERP	Epicor Kinetic
Started in	2012	Rebranding in 2021 (legacy version existed for more than 20 years)
Ownership by	Oracle	CD&R, over $57B in assets, and CVC with over $220B in assets
No. of customers	10,000+	23,000+

What is Oracle Cloud ERP?

Oracle ERP Cloud remains a top choice for large companies across diverse industries, including media, telecommunications, construction, energy, oil and gas, and healthcare (post-acquisition of Cerner). It is particularly suitable for organizations with substantial internal IT expertise and a requirement for integrating various proprietary and third-party software systems, such as patient claims management or utility billing solutions.

Oracle ERP Cloud is well-suited for global companies using it as their corporate financial ledger while employing other systems at the subsidiary level. Its robust financial capabilities cater to companies needing ledger-level security and hierarchical financial reporting, such as LOB, functions, or funds. Additionally, it seamlessly integrates a powerful HCM solution along with a natively integrated EPM solution.

Oracle ERP Cloud excels in risk management, advertising, and Cx cloud, particularly catering to industries like financial services and insurance. While it is a superior fit for service-centric industries, its success in product-centric industries has been limited. Often used as a corporate ledger, it might deploy another operationally rich solution at the subsidiary level in certain industries. Despite its strength for large enterprises, Oracle ERP Cloud is not the ideal choice for SMB customers.

What Is Epicor Kinetic?

Epicor Kinetic, their flagship solution, particularly excels in catering to manufacturing companies with formal processes. Its distinctive data model and BOM structure, coupled with robust planning capabilities for dimensional inventory, make it ideal for industries like metal, fasteners, fabrication, aerospace, automotive, and medical devices. Epicor Kinetic’s versatile data model addresses complex planning needs for companies particularly with diverse business models, encompassing manufacturing, distribution, and construction. Moreover, its advanced features support WBS-centric processes, enabling efficient management of large manufacturing programs with centralized cost tracking.

Epicor Kinetic boasts a sophisticated data model, surpassing entry-level ERP systems particularly like Acumatica or NetSuite. Tailored for companies advancing beyond basic transactional processing, it targets those in need of mature manufacturing capabilities such as MRP, allocation, and scheduling. Implementation success with Epicor Kinetic also requires substantial expertise in process and data coding, making it unsuitable for founder-led companies lacking seasoned operational and financial executives with ERP experience. Given its rigid revision model, companies with suboptimal SKU and BOM models may face challenges during implementation, emphasizing the need for robust internal capabilities and advisory support.

Epicor Kinetic has also undergone noteworthy technological advancements, adopting a look and feel reminiscent of Microsoft Dynamics ERP systems. Despite its legacy status, it supports mature cloud capabilities like enterprise search. Positioned for companies particularly in the $50M – $750M revenue range, it has a strong customer base within this bracket. Current limitations also include its field service capabilities, which are being addressed through an acquired add-on, and its finance and accounting module, not as tightly integrated as other modern cloud-native solutions.

Oracle Cloud ERP vs Epicor Kinetic Comparison

Navigating the choice between Oracle Cloud ERP vs Epicor Kinetic is a significant decision for businesses particularly looking for operational efficiency and strategic alignment. Thus, this section delves into the comprehensive comparison of Oracle Cloud ERP vs Epicor Kinetic across various critical dimensions.

	Oracle Cloud ERP	Epicor Kinetic
Global Operational Capabilities	Enterprise-grade multi-entity capabilities for global organizations.	The limited number of global and financial layers would require inefficient workarounds.
Diverse Capabilities	Has the ability to support diverse business models.	The versatile data model addresses complex planning needs for companies with diverse business models.
Best-of-breed Capabilities	Comprehensive enterprise-grade best-of-breed options as part of the suite, including HCM, CPQ, WMS, RMS, and TMS.	Limited, relying on third party add-ons for field service and quality module.
Last-mile Capabilities	Limited last-mile capabilities might require add-ons or custom development.	Pre-packaged capabilities for metal, automotive, and aerospace verticals.
Operational Functionalities	Has deeper supply chain and logistics capabilities.	Equipped with strong mixed-mode manufacturing capabilities, and strong WBS-centric processes.
Integration Capabilities	Enterprise-grade integration suite capabilities with pre-integrated components.	With out-of-the-box MES functionality, particularly appeals to smaller companies seeking pre-integrated Industry 4.0 capabilities.
Manufacturing Capabilities	Ideal for companies using it in the best-of-breed architecture with a focused manufacturing solution at the subsidiary level.	Manufacturing organizations with formal processes and revision numbers will relate more.
Pricing Model	Named-user based	Per user, monthly.
Key Modules	1. Financial Management 2. Project Management 3. Procurement 4. Risk Management and Compliance 5. Enterprise Performance Management 6. Supply Chain and Manufacturing 7. ERP Analytics	1. Financial Management 2. Supply Chain Management 3. Production Management 4. Risk and Compliance 5. Customer Relationship Management 6. Project Management 7. Cloud Business Platform 8. Business Intelligence and Analytics 9. Planning and Scheduling 10. Services and Assets 11. Omnichannel Sales 12. Product Management 13. Global Business Management

Oracle Cloud ERP vs Epicor Kinetic Feature Comparison

Both platforms offer a plethora of features and functionalities designed to streamline business operations and enhance efficiency. In this feature comparison, we delve into particularly the distinct capabilities of Oracle Cloud ERP vs Epicor Kinetic across various critical dimensions, providing insights to aid businesses in making informed decisions regarding their ERP selection. Thus, this section discusses features under each of the following modules, particularly financial management, supply chain management, and manufacturing management.

Financial Management Comparison

In this section, we are discussing a detailed comparison of the financial management capabilities particularly offered by Oracle Cloud ERP vs Epicor Kinetic. By examining their respective strengths and functionalities, particularly in managing financial processes. Businesses can therefore gain valuable insights to determine the best-suited ERP solution for their financial management needs.

		Oracle Cloud ERP	Epicor Kinetic
Financial Management	General Ledger	Enterprise-grade ledgers to support multi-country operations at the global level with layers of sub-ledgers and complex closing process.	It is a customizable, secure core component of its Financial Management suite. Offers accounting controls, seamless integration with other financial modules, global capabilities, and also advanced reporting tools.
	Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable	Support for complex, global AR and AP processes, including shared services.	Includes AR (managing invoicing, credit, cash, and customer payments) and AP (automating invoice processing, supporting multiple payment methods, and tracking expenses).
	Cash Flow Management	Enterprise-grade capabilities for cash and treasury management.	Features automated cash handling, bank reconciliation, multi-currency and multi-bank management, integration with other financial modules, and also real-time reporting and analysis.
	Currency Management	Creates estimates for new or existing items, convert to bills of material, production orders.	Simplifies multi-currency transactions, automates exchange rate management, integrates with other financial modules, ensures global compliance, and provides real-time reporting and analysis.
	Tax Management	Provides centralized tax configuration, management, and reporting.	Automates sales and use tax calculations, integrates with financial modules, supports multiple jurisdictions, provides real-time updates, and simplifies reporting and filing.

Supply Chain Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the supply chain management capabilities of Oracle Cloud ERP vs Epicor Kinetic, shedding light particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

		Oracle Cloud ERP	Epicor Kinetic
Supply Chain Management	Warehouse Management	Streamlines warehouse operations, enhances inventory management and ensures seamless multichannel fulfillment, end-to-end inventory visibility, and integration with advanced features for efficient resource allocation and workflow optimization.	Optimizes operations with real-time inventory tracking, advanced material management, seamless integration with other systems, and configurable workflows.
	Service Management	Ensures efficient and effective service delivery through features like service request management, incident handling, and knowledge management.	Streamlines operations with maintenance management, service contract handling, case management, RMA tracking, and real-time insights for efficient equipment upkeep and customer support.
	Inventory Management	Enables efficient management of goods flow, including inbound, within the warehouse, and outbound, while also supporting consigned inventory capabilities.	Optimizes processes with detailed tracking, smart planning, advanced units of measure, automated purchase contracts, and seamless integration with supply chain and production modules.
	Purchase Order Management	Helps organizations digitally manage and process purchase orders for supply chain and procurement activities, improving efficiency and reducing overhead costs.	Streamlines procurement with tools for supplier negotiations, order tracking, automated processes, and supplier relationship management.
	Requisition Management	Allows users to efficiently view, create, submit, edit, and manage requisitions, ensuring proper approval workflows and seamless procurement processes.	Automates procurement with real-time budget checks, vendor support, standing and blanket orders, multi-level approvals, and effective expenditure management.

Manufacturing Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the manufacturing management capabilities of Oracle Cloud ERP vs Epicor Kinetic, shedding light, particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

		Oracle Cloud ERP	Epicor Kinetic
Manufacturing Management	Production Planning	Offers production planning capabilities including capacity planning, MRP, shop floor control, and demand planning.	Enhances manufacturing efficiency with Master Production Scheduling, Material Requirements Planning, Advanced Planning and Scheduling, Job Management, Lean Manufacturing, Quality Management, and Advanced MES for real-time monitoring.
	BOM and Routing	Allows you to define lists of components associated with a parent item and outlines step-by-step operations required for manufacturing an assembly.	Streamlines production with multi-level BOM management, dynamic BOM creation, CAD and PLM integration, strong change control, centralized routing management, detailed routing steps, real-time adjustments, and precise cost and time estimation.
	Advanced Planning and Scheduling	Plans all supply chain facilities, supporting both short-term detailed scheduling and long-term aggregate planning within a single plan. It also considers finite capacity constraints and offers holistic optimization capabilities.	Enhances production efficiency with automated scheduling, flexible capacity planning, real-time adjustments, what-if scenarios, integrated material constraints, and multi-site management.

Pros of Oracle Cloud ERP vs Epicor Kinetic

When evaluating ERP solutions, understanding the distinct advantages of Oracle Cloud ERP vs Epicor Kinetic is crucial. In this section, we are particularly exploring the strengths of Oracle Cloud ERP vs Epicor Kinetic across various dimensions. Thus, shedding light on their respective capabilities and functionalities.

Oracle Cloud ERP	Epicor Kinetic
The product architecture supports the needs of large, complex financial organizations with deep sub-ledger hierarchies.	Epicor has a very similar look and feel to Microsoft ERP products, providing you with the same experience but with much deeper last-mile capabilities.
Oracle Cloud ERP has an ecosystem of experienced consultants capable of handling the architecture of such complex enterprises.	90% of the capabilities required by verticals such as metal, automotive, and aerospace are pre-packaged with the core platform.
The embedded HCM and CRM processes are suitable for large non-profit organizations. The P2P workflows are friendlier for the indirect procurement needs of non-profit organizations.	Great fit for manufacturing organizations that follow formal manufacturing processes with revision numbers.
The workload Oracle Cloud ERP is designed to process millions of GL entries per hour.	Although a legacy product, it includes mature cloud capabilities such as enterprise search and transactional maps for end-to-end transactional traceability.

Cons of Oracle Cloud ERP vs Epicor Kinetic

Just like recognizing strengths is important, it’s also crucial to weigh the specific drawbacks of Oracle Cloud ERP vs Epicor Kinetic. Therefore, in this section, we will delve into the limitations and challenges associated with Oracle Cloud ERP vs Epicor Kinetic across various operational and financial dimensions.

Oracle Cloud ERP	Epicor Kinetic
While functionally capable, transactional and financial traceability might not be as intuitive for large, complex enterprises.	The data layers are highly detailed, requiring substantial consulting help to be successful with the product.
The data model and translations required to be successful may be too overwhelming for companies outgrowing QuickBooks or other smaller ERP systems.	The limited focus on certain business models poses the risk of requiring other ERP systems to support complex and diverse business operations.
Might struggle with the complex MRP runs hitting millions and millions of costing, scheduling, and also WIP industries.	The field service capabilities are not as embedded and proven as some of the other products.
Longer time in customizing and configuring as the software design may consist of unnecessary allocation, commitment, and approval functionality for large companies.	Epicor takes a suite approach to its products while selling directly to its customers. This limits the overall consulting and marketplace penetration.
The P2P processes, CPQ, and manufacturing capabilities may not be the friendliest for product-centric organizations particularly with the needs for MES, PLM, and S&OP-centric processes.	Requires ad-hoc arrangements for larger mid-market companies with more than three financial hierarchies.
Limited last-mile functionality for quality and compliance, which will require an add-on or custom development.	Finance and accounting layers are not going to be as strong as some of the other products.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing between Oracle Cloud ERP vs Epicor Kinetic hinges on the specific needs and scale of your organization. Oracle Cloud ERP is a robust solution for large, global enterprises with complex financial operations, offering extensive capabilities in financial management, supply chain integration, and risk management. Its powerful ecosystem is particularly suited for organizations with substantial internal IT expertise and those needing a unified platform for diverse business models. However, its complexity and focus on large enterprises may not be ideal for smaller companies or those with less sophisticated IT infrastructures.

On the other hand, Epicor Kinetic is a strong contender for mid-sized manufacturing companies, particularly those in industries such as metal fabrication, aerospace, and automotive. It offers deep manufacturing capabilities, including advanced planning and scheduling, and is tailored for organizations with formal manufacturing processes. While it may require significant expertise to implement and manage, Epicor Kinetic’s pre-integrated Industry 4.0 capabilities and focus on dimensional inventory management make it a compelling choice for manufacturers looking to streamline operations.

Both systems have their strengths and limitations, so businesses should carefully evaluate their specific needs and growth aspirations to determine the most suitable ERP solution. Also, seeking assistance from an independent ERP consultant can significantly aid the decision-making process. To get a 360-degree view of feature comparisons, it’s essential to explore not only Oracle Cloud ERP vs. Epicor Kinetic but also insights from other analyses such as Oracle Cloud ERP vs. NetSuite, SAP S/4 HANA, Acumatica, MS Dynamics 365 F&O, MS Dynamics 365 BC, Infor CloudSuite LN, and Infor CloudSuite M3.

FAQs

Microsoft Dynamics 365 BC serves as a logical choice for companies outgrowing smaller ERP, MRP, and accounting systems like QuickBooks, Microsoft GP, Odoo, Katana, or Fulcrum. On the other hand, Epicor Kinetic boasts a sophisticated data model, surpassing entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica or NetSuite. Contrastingly, the sweet spot for Dynamics 365 BC would be $30M-$250 in revenue and a higher revenue band for companies that might use MS Dynamics 365 BC just for accounting and financial reporting while using mature operational systems at the subsidiary level.

The biggest advantage of MS Dynamics 365 BC is its consulting ecosystem and community support, which is much bigger than most ERP ecosystems. Whereas, Epicor Kinetic is positioned for companies in the $50M – $750M revenue range and it has a strong customer base within this bracket. Epicor Kinetic also excels in catering to manufacturing companies with formal processes. Its distinctive data model and BOM structure, coupled with robust planning capabilities for dimensional inventory, make it ideal for industries like metal, fasteners, fabrication, aerospace, automotive, and medical devices.

Whereas, Dynamics 365 BC is ideal for companies with diversified, global operations aspiring to keep all of their entities in one database for easier reconciliation and tracking. Thus, choosing between Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic requires a detailed examination, and this comparison offers valuable insights for ERP selection projects. Let’s delve deeper into the specifics.

	MS Dynamics 365 BC	Epicor Kinetic
Started in	2018 (Previously NAV)	Rebranding in 2021 (legacy version existed for more than 20 years)
Ownership by	Microsoft	CD&R, over $57B in assets, and CVC with over $220B in assets
No. of customers	60,000+	23,000+

What Is MS Dynamics 365 BC?

Rearchitected with cloud-native technologies, Microsoft Dynamics 365 BC is the SMB solution from Microsoft, globalized and also localized in most countries with a consulting base available virtually in any country or language. Microsoft Dynamics 365 BC serves as a logical choice for companies outgrowing particularly smaller ERP, MRP, and accounting systems like QuickBooks, Microsoft GP, Odoo, Katana, or Fulcrum. It is positioned against competitors such as Netsuite, Sage Intacct, and Acumatica. It also offers a vibrant ecosystem with numerous add-ons catering to industry-specific needs.

The sweet spot for MS Dynamics 365 BC would be $30M-$250 in revenue and a higher revenue band for companies that might use MS Dynamics 365 BC just for accounting and financial reporting while using mature operational systems at the subsidiary level. The biggest advantage of MS Dynamics 365 BC is its consulting ecosystem and community support, which is much bigger than most ERP ecosystems, and that’s why it’s probably one of the most popular solutions across geographies.

Microsoft Dynamics 365 BC is also ideal for companies with diversified, global operations aspiring to keep all of their entities in one database for easier reconciliation and tracking. While the add-ons might allow companies to use Microsoft Dynamics 365 BC for complex industrial operations, the natural design and core would be compatible with companies in industries such as non-profit, public sector, FMCG, F&B distribution, very light assembly manufacturing, telco, media, tech, energy, and utilities.

What Is Epicor Kinetic?

Epicor Kinetic, their flagship solution, particularly excels in catering to manufacturing companies with formal processes. Its distinctive data model and BOM structure, coupled with robust planning capabilities for dimensional inventory, make it ideal for industries like metal, fasteners, fabrication, aerospace, automotive, and medical devices. Epicor Kinetic’s versatile data model addresses complex planning needs for companies particularly with diverse business models, encompassing manufacturing, distribution, and construction. Moreover, its advanced features support WBS-centric processes, enabling efficient management of large manufacturing programs with centralized cost tracking.

Epicor Kinetic boasts a sophisticated data model, surpassing entry-level ERP systems particularly like Acumatica or NetSuite. Tailored for companies advancing beyond basic transactional processing, it targets those in need of mature manufacturing capabilities such as MRP, allocation, and scheduling. Implementation success with Epicor Kinetic also requires substantial expertise in process and data coding, making it unsuitable for founder-led companies lacking seasoned operational and financial executives with ERP experience. Given its rigid revision model, companies with suboptimal SKU and BOM models may face challenges during implementation, emphasizing the need for robust internal capabilities and advisory support.

Epicor Kinetic has also undergone noteworthy technological advancements, adopting a look and feel reminiscent of Microsoft Dynamics ERP systems. Despite its legacy status, it supports mature cloud capabilities like enterprise search. Positioned for companies particularly in the $50M – $750M revenue range, it has a strong customer base within this bracket. Current limitations also include its field service capabilities, which are being addressed through an acquired add-on, and its finance and accounting module, not as tightly integrated as other modern cloud-native solutions.

Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic Comparison

Navigating the choice between Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic is a significant decision for businesses particularly looking for operational efficiency and strategic alignment. Thus, this section delves into the comprehensive comparison of Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic across various critical dimensions.

	Dynamics 365 BC	Epicor Kinetic
Global Operational Capabilities	Supported and actively installed in most countries globally.	The limited number of global and financial layers would require inefficient workarounds.
Diverse Capabilities	Supports multiple industries and business models.	The versatile data model addresses complex planning needs for companies with diverse business models.
Best-of-breed Capabilities	Pre-integrated with Microsoft CRM and field service but relies on third-party add-ons for additional capabilities.	Limited, relying on third party add-ons for field service and quality module.
Last-mile Capabilities	May require add-ons for specific micro-verticals.	Pre-packaged capabilities for metal, automotive, and aerospace verticals.
Operational Functionalities	Emphasizes core ERP capabilities, relying on partner add-ons for industry-specific capabilities.	Equipped with strong mixed-mode manufacturing capabilities, and strong WBS-centric processes.
Integration Capabilities	Common data model, power platform and automate along with MS Azure platform for additional development and integration.	With out-of-the-box MES functionality, particularly appeals to smaller companies seeking pre-integrated Industry 4.0 capabilities.
Manufacturing Capabilities	Lighter manufacturing capabilities.	Manufacturing organizations with formal processes and revision numbers will relate more.
Pricing Model	Per named user, per month. (True consumption-based)	Per user, monthly.
Key Modules	1. Financial Management 2. CRM 3. Distribution Management 4. Supply Chain Management 5. Project Accounting Management 6. Inventory Management 7. Reporting, Dashboard and BI	1. Financial Management 2. Supply Chain Management 3. Production Management 4. Risk and Compliance 5. Customer Relationship Management 6. Project Management 7. Cloud Business Platform 8. Business Intelligence and Analytics 9. Planning and Scheduling 10. Services and Assets 11. Omnichannel Sales 12. Product Management 13. Global Business Management

Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic Feature Comparison

Both platforms offer a plethora of features and functionalities designed to streamline business operations and enhance efficiency. In this feature comparison, we delve into particularly the distinct capabilities of Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic across various critical dimensions, providing insights to aid businesses in making informed decisions regarding their ERP selection. Thus, this section discusses features under each of the following modules, particularly financial management, supply chain management, and manufacturing management.

Financial Management Comparison

In this section, we are discussing a detailed comparison of the financial management capabilities particularly offered by Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic. By examining their respective strengths and functionalities, particularly in managing financial processes. Businesses can therefore gain valuable insights to determine the best-suited ERP solution for their financial management needs.

		Dynamics 365 BC	Epicor Kinetic
Financial Management	General Ledger	Initiates general ledger postings, chart of accounts, general journals, VAT facilities, recurring journals, and source codes.	It is a customizable, secure core component of its Financial Management suite. Offers accounting controls, seamless integration with other financial modules, global capabilities, and also advanced reporting tools.
	Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable	Automates accounts receivables and payables and facilitates seamless reconciliation of accounts for swift and precise financial reporting.	Includes AR (managing invoicing, credit, cash, and customer payments) and AP (automating invoice processing, supporting multiple payment methods, and tracking expenses).
	Cash Flow Management	Provides comprehensive forecasting, analysis, and Azure ML-based prediction of cash inflows and outflows.	Features automated cash handling, bank reconciliation, multi-currency and multi-bank management, integration with other financial modules, and also real-time reporting and analysis.
	Currency Management	Manages multiple currencies across the system, including payables and receivables, general ledger reports, resource and inventory items, and bank accounts.	Simplifies multi-currency transactions, automates exchange rate management, integrates with other financial modules, ensures global compliance, and provides real-time reporting and analysis.
	Tax Management	Offers automated, configurable, and scalable tax determination, calculation, and settlement capabilities, accommodating complex tax scenarios across various business requirements.	Automates sales and use tax calculations, integrates with financial modules, supports multiple jurisdictions, provides real-time updates, and simplifies reporting and filing.

Supply Chain Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the supply chain management capabilities of Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic, shedding light particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

		MS Dynamics 365 BC	Epicor Kinetic
Supply Chain Management	Warehouse Management	Can be implemented in different complexity levels, depending on a company’s processes and order volume. The main difference is that activities are performed order-by-order in basic warehousing when they are consolidated for multiple orders in advanced warehousing.	Optimizes operations with real-time inventory tracking, advanced material management, seamless integration with other systems, and configurable workflows.
	Service Management	Service management is not built as part of the core platform but a pre-integrated specialized app is available for field service operations.	Streamlines operations with maintenance management, service contract handling, case management, RMA tracking, and real-time insights for efficient equipment upkeep and customer support.
	Inventory Management	Ensures inventory availability by automatically computing stock levels, lead times, and reorder thresholds. Also, maintains optimal inventory levels by adjusting orders dynamically based on real-time inventory updates.	Optimizes processes with detailed tracking, smart planning, advanced units of measure, automated purchase contracts, and seamless integration with supply chain and production modules.
	Purchase Order Management	Manages purchase orders, including blanket orders and related processes.	Streamlines procurement with tools for supplier negotiations, order tracking, automated processes, and supplier relationship management.
	Sales Order Management	Manages sales orders, including blanket sales orders and associated processes.	Streamlines sales with features for order tracking, automation, estimating, cross-functional collaboration, and eCommerce integration.
	Requisition Management	Organizes complex distribution processes involving multiple products and suppliers.	Automates procurement with real-time budget checks, vendor support, standing and blanket orders, multi-level approvals, and effective expenditure management.

Manufacturing Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the manufacturing management capabilities of MS Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic, shedding light, particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

		MS Dynamics 365 BC	Epicor Kinetic
Manufacturing Management	Production Planning	Enables the creation of production orders, definition of routings, allocation of resources, and optimization of production sequences, ensuring seamless operations.	Enhances manufacturing efficiency with Master Production Scheduling, Material Requirements Planning, Advanced Planning and Scheduling, Job Management, Lean Manufacturing, Quality Management, and Advanced MES for real-time monitoring.
	BOM and Routing	Allows for the detailed mapping of production processes, including the components, subassemblies, and resources used, as well as the sequence of operations.	Streamlines production with multi-level BOM management, dynamic BOM creation, CAD and PLM integration, strong change control, centralized routing management, detailed routing steps, real-time adjustments, and precise cost and time estimation.
	Advanced Planning and Scheduling	Takes into account all demand and supply data, nets the results, and creates suggestions for balancing the supply to meet the demand, ensuring optimized resource utilization and efficient production control.	Enhances production efficiency with automated scheduling, flexible capacity planning, real-time adjustments, what-if scenarios, integrated material constraints, and multi-site management.

Pros of Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic

When evaluating ERP solutions, understanding the distinct advantages of Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic is crucial. In this section, we are particularly exploring the strengths of Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic across various dimensions. Thus, shedding light on their respective capabilities and functionalities.

Dynamics 365 BC	Epicor Kinetic
Natively supports global regions and localizations where Acumatica, Epicor, or Infor might have limited support.	Epicor has a very similar look and feel to Microsoft ERP products, providing you with the same experience but with much deeper last-mile capabilities.
Unlike several products it has support for several European, Asian, and African countries where most products might struggle.	90% of the capabilities required by verticals such as metal, automotive, and aerospace are pre-packaged with the core platform.
The data model is friendlier for FMCG and distribution companies requiring native support for complex features such as bin tracking or license plate support.	Great fit for manufacturing organizations that follow formal manufacturing processes with revision numbers.
The product has been completely rearchitected using the cloud-native architecture. Cloud ERP capabilities are stronger than those of competing products.	Although a legacy product, it includes mature cloud capabilities such as enterprise search and transactional maps for end-to-end transactional traceability.

Cons of Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic

Just like recognizing strengths is important, it’s also crucial to weigh the specific drawbacks of Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic. Therefore, in this section, we will delve into the limitations and challenges associated with Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic across various operational and financial dimensions.

MS Dynamics 365 BC	Epicor Kinetic
Only fit for FMCG-centric distributors. The industrial distribution would require add-ons to support capabilities.	The data layers are highly detailed, requiring substantial consulting help to be successful with the product.
While the ecosystem may have options for distribution industries, it might not have integrations with the best-of-breed eCommerce systems in the industrial distribution space.	The limited focus on certain business models poses the risk of requiring other ERP systems to support complex and diverse business operations.
The financial traceability may not be as intuitive for global, publicly traded non-profit companies.	The field service capabilities are not as embedded and proven as some of the other products.
The data layers are highly detailed, requiring substantial consulting help to be successful.	Epicor takes a suite approach to its products while selling directly to its customers. This limits the overall consulting and marketplace penetration.
Microsoft doesn’t offer any support or control to its smaller products, leading to ERP implementation issues.	Requires ad-hoc arrangements for larger mid-market companies with more than three financial hierarchies.
While Microsoft Dynamics 365 BC has a vibrant marketplace to augment its core capabilities, the last-mile capabilities required for manufacturing or industrial distribution might be limited.	Finance and accounting layers are not going to be as strong as some of the other products.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing between Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic hinges on the specific needs and operational focus of a company. Dynamics 365 BC shines in its global reach, cloud-native architecture, and robust support ecosystem, thus making it a top choice for SMBs with diversified and global operations. Its strengths lie in financial management, seamless integration with Microsoft’s ecosystem, and also adaptability to various industries. However, it may require additional customization and third-party add-ons for companies with complex manufacturing or distribution needs, potentially increasing implementation time and costs.

On the other hand, Epicor Kinetic is a formidable option for manufacturing-centric organizations, particularly in industries with formal processes and complex BOM structures like aerospace, automotive, and metal fabrication. Its deep manufacturing capabilities, coupled with advanced planning and scheduling tools, cater well to larger mid-market companies. However, its reliance on detailed data models and a more rigid structure may pose challenges for companies lacking in-house ERP expertise. 

Both systems have their strengths and limitations, so businesses should carefully evaluate their specific needs and growth aspirations to determine the most suitable ERP solution. Also, seeking assistance from an independent ERP consultant can significantly aid the decision-making process. To get a 360-degree view of feature comparisons, it’s essential to explore not only Dynamics 365 BC vs. Epicor Kinetic but also insights from other analyses such as Dynamics 365 BC vs. NetSuite, SAP S/4 HANA, Acumatica, MS Dynamics 365 F&O, Oracle Cloud ERP, Infor CloudSuite LN, and Infor CloudSuite M3.

FAQs

SAP maintains its dominance in the ERP market, largely due to its stronghold in the enterprise segment where deals are significantly larger compared to the mid-market. The architecture complementing the S/4 HANA Suite is particularly favored by enterprise-grade companies, offering leading products like SuccessFactors, Hybris, EWM, Ariba, and Concur. On the other hand, Epicor Kinetic boasts a sophisticated data model, surpassing entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica or NetSuite.

For enterprise companies, SAP S/4 HANA often becomes a default choice due to high transaction volumes, stringent governance, and traceability needs. It particularly shines in product-centric enterprises requiring robust capabilities like MRP and allocation for global workloads. It targets larger companies with revenues exceeding $1B and with a substantial global presence. Whereas, Epicor Kinetic is positioned for companies in the $50M – $750M revenue range and it has a strong customer base within this bracket.

SAP S/4 HANA excels in managing entities across multiple countries within a unified database, Acumatica’s strength lies in its multi-branch capabilities and tailored support for various business models such as manufacturing, distribution, construction, and field service. Whereas, Epicor Kinetic excels in catering to manufacturing companies with formal processes. Its distinctive data model and BOM structure, coupled with robust planning capabilities for dimensional inventory, make it ideal for industries like metal, fasteners, fabrication, aerospace, automotive, and medical devices. Choosing between SAP S/4 HANA vs Epicor Kinetic requires a detailed examination, and this comparison offers valuable insights for ERP selection projects. Let’s delve deeper into the specifics.

	SAP S/4 HANA	Epicor Kinetic
Started in	Pioneers of ERP	Rebranding in 2021 (legacy version existed for more than 20 years)
Ownership by	SAP	CD&R, over $57B in assets, and CVC with over $220B in assets
No. of customers	28,000+	23,000+

What Is SAP S/4 HANA?

SAP S/4 HANA remains the top choice for large enterprises with global needs and extensive localization requirements across multiple continents. In this league, its primary rival is Oracle. While alternatives like Unit4, IFS, or Deltek might handle the workload for larger enterprises, they often lack the robust global compliance and transactional capabilities that SAP S/4 HANA offers. Additionally, SAP S/4 HANA excels in providing superior transactional workflow capabilities that are purpose-built to streamline traceability for large and complex organizations.

Moreover, SAP S/4 HANA is an ideal choice for companies seeking a best-of-breed architecture tailored to the needs of specific functions. This architecture allows for operational cores on different ledgers, which is crucial particularly for larger distribution and 3PL companies managing complex WMS networks. Companies with intricate HCM operations and stringent compliance requirements may find it necessary to integrate a best-of-breed system.

Additionally, for enterprises requiring sophisticated eCommerce platforms with components like CDP or CPQ, SAP S/4 HANA provides the essential capabilities. The flexibility and enterprise-grade best-of-breed architecture make SAP S/4 HANA a standout solution for such diverse operational needs. The cloud version may require additional third-party add-ons, similar to NetSuite. Nevertheless, organizations opting for the on-prem version can access superior capabilities, potentially outperforming other ERP systems.

What Is Epicor Kinetic?

Epicor Kinetic, their flagship solution, particularly excels in catering to manufacturing companies with formal processes. Its distinctive data model and BOM structure, coupled with robust planning capabilities for dimensional inventory, make it ideal for industries like metal, fasteners, fabrication, aerospace, automotive, and medical devices. Epicor Kinetic’s versatile data model addresses complex planning needs for companies particularly with diverse business models, encompassing manufacturing, distribution, and construction. Moreover, its advanced features support WBS-centric processes, enabling efficient management of large manufacturing programs with centralized cost tracking.

Epicor Kinetic boasts a sophisticated data model, surpassing entry-level ERP systems particularly like Acumatica or NetSuite. Tailored for companies advancing beyond basic transactional processing, it targets those in need of mature manufacturing capabilities such as MRP, allocation, and scheduling. Implementation success with Epicor Kinetic also requires substantial expertise in process and data coding, making it unsuitable for founder-led companies lacking seasoned operational and financial executives with ERP experience. Given its rigid revision model, companies with suboptimal SKU and BOM models may face challenges during implementation, emphasizing the need for robust internal capabilities and advisory support.

Epicor Kinetic has also undergone noteworthy technological advancements, adopting a look and feel reminiscent of Microsoft Dynamics ERP systems. Despite its legacy status, it supports mature cloud capabilities like enterprise search. Positioned for companies particularly in the $50M – $750M revenue range, it has a strong customer base within this bracket. Current limitations also include its field service capabilities, which are being addressed through an acquired add-on, and its finance and accounting module, not as tightly integrated as other modern cloud-native solutions.

SAP S/4 HANA vs Epicor Kinetic Comparison

Navigating the choice between SAP S/4 HANA vs Epicor Kinetic is a significant decision for businesses particularly looking for operational efficiency and strategic alignment. Thus, this section delves into the comprehensive comparison of SAP S/4 HANA vs Epicor Kinetic across various critical dimensions.

	SAP S/4 HANA	Epicor Kinetic
Global Operational Capabilities	Deeper multi-entity capabilities.	The limited number of global and financial layers would require inefficient workarounds, particularly like using sub-accounts for traceability.
Diverse Capabilities	Supports diverse business models globally, may require add-ons for deeper operational capabilities.	The versatile data model addresses complex planning needs for companies with diverse business models, including manufacturing, distribution, and construction.
Best-of-breed Capabilities	Enterprise-grade capabilities with pre-integrated applications supported by SAP, augmented by third-party add-ons.	Limited, relying on third party add-ons for field service and quality module.
Last-mile Capabilities	Limited pre-baked last-mile capabilities for specific micro-industries.	Pre-packaged capabilities for metal, automotive, and aerospace verticals.
Operational Functionalities	Enterprise-grade operational capabilities, limited to industry-specific functionalities.	Equipped with strong mixed-mode manufacturing capabilities, and strong WBS-centric processes.
Integration Capabilities	Lacks out-of-the-box integration with industry-specific PLMs, configurators, and CPQ systems.	With out-of-the-box MES functionality, particularly appeals to smaller companies seeking pre-integrated Industry 4.0 capabilities.
Manufacturing Capabilities	Supports complex manufacturing operations and product models, limited to industry-specific manufacturing functionalities.	Manufacturing organizations with formal processes and revision numbers will relate more.
Pricing Model	FUE (Full Use Equivalent)	Per user, monthly.
Key Modules	1. Financial Management 2. Sales 3. Procurement 4. Manufacturing Management 5. Supply Chain Management 6. Professional Services Automation 7. CRM	1. Financial Management 2. Supply Chain Management 3. Production Management 4. Risk and Compliance 5. Customer Relationship Management 6. Project Management 7. Cloud Business Platform 8. Business Intelligence and Analytics 9. Planning and Scheduling 10. Services and Assets 11. Omnichannel Sales 12. Product Management 13. Global Business Management

SAP S/4 HANA vs Epicor Kinetic Feature Comparison

Both platforms offer a plethora of features and functionalities designed to streamline business operations and enhance efficiency. In this feature comparison, we delve into particularly the distinct capabilities of SAP S/4 HANA vs Epicor Kinetic across various critical dimensions, providing insights to aid businesses in making informed decisions regarding their ERP selection. Thus, this section discusses features under each of the following modules, particularly financial management, supply chain management, and manufacturing management.

Financial Management Comparison

In this section, we are discussing a detailed comparison of the financial management capabilities particularly offered by SAP S/4 HANA vs Epicor Kinetic. By examining their respective strengths and functionalities, particularly in managing financial processes. Businesses can therefore gain valuable insights to determine the best-suited ERP solution for their financial management needs.

		SAP S/4 HANA	Epicor Kinetic
Financial Management	General Ledger	Can support the needs of even the most complex financial organizations with more than ten ledger rollups at the country level and conversions.	It is a customizable, secure core component of its Financial Management suite. Offers accounting controls, seamless integration with other financial modules, global capabilities, and also advanced reporting tools.
	Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable	Supports global collaboration of customers and vendors, also including shared service model.	Includes AR (managing invoicing, credit, cash, and customer payments) and AP (automating invoice processing, supporting multiple payment methods, and tracking expenses).
	Cash Flow Management	Complex treasury capabilities with the support for global operations, including maintaining treasury KPIs, workflows, and processes for dedicated treasury departments.	Features automated cash handling, bank reconciliation, multi-currency and multi-bank management, integration with other financial modules, and also real-time reporting and analysis.
	Currency Management	Can support complex currency workflows such as hedging and planning for current impact on different financial statements and accounts globally.	Simplifies multi-currency transactions, automates exchange rate management, integrates with other financial modules, ensures global compliance, and provides real-time reporting and analysis.
	Tax Management	Has built-in support for taxes of over 100 countries.	Automates sales and use tax calculations, integrates with financial modules, supports multiple jurisdictions, provides real-time updates, and simplifies reporting and filing.

Supply Chain Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the supply chain management capabilities of SAP S/4 HANA vs Epicor Kinetic, shedding light particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

		SAP S/4 HANA	Epicor Kinetic
Supply Chain Management	Warehouse Management	Supports embedded or standalone architectural patterns and complex business models like 3PL or warehouse value-added services.	Optimizes operations with real-time inventory tracking, advanced material management, seamless integration with other systems, and configurable workflows.
	Service Management	Supports complex quotes and service scheduling workflows particularly for globally operated companies.	Streamlines operations with maintenance management, service contract handling, case management, RMA tracking, and real-time insights for efficient equipment upkeep and customer support.
	Inventory Management	Accommodates many different business models and inventory types of complex, global organizations.	Optimizes processes with detailed tracking, smart planning, advanced units of measure, automated purchase contracts, and seamless integration with supply chain and production modules.
	Purchase Order Management	Manages complex workflows with automated approval rules and multiple hierarchies.	Streamlines procurement with tools for supplier negotiations, order tracking, automated processes, and supplier relationship management.
	Sales Order Management	Manages complex order types tailored to different business models.	Streamlines sales with features for order tracking, automation, estimating, cross-functional collaboration, and eCommerce integration.
	Requisition Management	Manages complex requisition processes of globally complex enterprises.	Automates procurement with real-time budget checks, vendor support, standing and blanket orders, multi-level approvals, and effective expenditure management.

Manufacturing Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the manufacturing management capabilities of SAP S/4 HANA vs Epicor Kinetic, shedding light, particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

		SAP S/4 HANA	Epicor Kinetic
Manufacturing Management	Production Planning	One of the most complex planning capabilities with enterprise-grade strategies to optimize production cycles for global companies.	Enhances manufacturing efficiency with Master Production Scheduling, Material Requirements Planning, Advanced Planning and Scheduling, Job Management, Lean Manufacturing, Quality Management, and Advanced MES for real-time monitoring.
	BOM and Routing	Enterprise-grade BOM scalability for a variety of business models and products.	Streamlines production with multi-level BOM management, dynamic BOM creation, CAD and PLM integration, strong change control, centralized routing management, detailed routing steps, real-time adjustments, and precise cost and time estimation.
	Advanced Planning and Scheduling	Enterprise-grade advanced APS capabilities for complex globally distributed planning workloads that need to be collaborated across geographies.	Enhances production efficiency with automated scheduling, flexible capacity planning, real-time adjustments, what-if scenarios, integrated material constraints, and multi-site management.

Pros of SAP S/4 HANA vs Epicor Kinetic

When evaluating ERP solutions, understanding the distinct advantages of SAP S/4 HANA vs Epicor Kinetic is crucial. In this section, we are particularly exploring the strengths of SAP S/4 HANA vs Epicor Kinetic across various dimensions. Thus, shedding light on their respective capabilities and functionalities.

SAP S/4 HANA	Epicor Kinetic
It is an ideal solution as the corporate financial ledger for global companies with multiple layers of financial hierarchies operating in multiple countries.	Epicor has a very similar look and feel to Microsoft ERP products, providing you with the same experience but with much deeper last-mile capabilities.
The item master, product model, and warehouse architecture can accommodate the needs of most manufacturing business models.	90% of the capabilities required by verticals such as metal, automotive, and aerospace are pre-packaged with the core platform.
Because of the power of HANA, SAP S/4 HANA can process very complex MRP runs with product models containing millions of serial numbers and SKUs, making it much faster than most ERP systems.	Great fit for manufacturing organizations that follow formal manufacturing processes with revision numbers.
Ideal fit for complex operations with its transactional maps capabilities built with the products, making debugging complex financial enterprises easier.	Although a legacy product, it includes mature cloud capabilities such as enterprise search and transactional maps for end-to-end transactional traceability.

Cons of SAP S/4 HANA vs Epicor Kinetic

Just like recognizing strengths is important, it’s also crucial to weigh the specific drawbacks of SAP S/4 HANA vs Epicor Kinetic. Therefore, in this section, we will delve into the limitations and challenges associated with SAP S/4 HANA vs Epicor Kinetic across various operational and financial dimensions.

SAP S/4 HANA	Epicor Kinetic
The controls provided as part of the product may feel unnecessary and also overwhelming for smaller companies.	The data layers are highly detailed, requiring substantial consulting help to be successful with the product.
Overbloated financial control processes, such as compliance, allocation, and approval flows, are only necessary for large organizations.	The limited focus on certain business models poses the risk of requiring other ERP systems to support complex and diverse business operations.
The data model is overwhelming for smaller organizations outgrowing QuickBooks or smaller ERP systems.	The field service capabilities are not as embedded and proven as some of the other products.
Despite advanced financial traceability and technical capabilities, the functional capabilities are not as rich as with its on-prem version.	Epicor takes a suite approach to its products while selling directly to its customers. This limits the overall consulting and marketplace penetration.
While SAP S/4 HANA has one of the best best-of-breed solutions, they might not be as pre-integrated as other solutions.	Requires ad-hoc arrangements for larger mid-market companies with more than three financial hierarchies.
In industries where it might not be the most frequently installed as an operational solution, the other solutions are likely to have deeper last-mile capabilities.	Finance and accounting layers are not going to be as strong as some of the other products.

Conclusion

SAP S/4 HANA vs Epicor Kinetic offers distinct advantages particularly depending on the scale and specific needs of a business. SAP S/4 HANA stands out as the preferred choice for large enterprises with global operations, also offering robust capabilities in financial management, complex manufacturing processes, and extensive localization support. Its enterprise-grade architecture is particularly well-suited for companies with multiple financial hierarchies and intricate compliance requirements. However, its complexity and the depth of its features may be overwhelming for smaller organizations, leading to higher implementation costs and the need for specialized consulting.

On the other hand, Epicor Kinetic is ideally positioned for mid-sized manufacturing companies looking for a solution that excels in formal processes and dimensional inventory management. Its strong fit within specific industries such as metal, automotive, and aerospace, combined with a user experience akin to Microsoft ERP products, makes it a solid choice for companies seeking depth in last-mile capabilities. While it may lack the extensive global reach and financial intricacies of SAP S/4 HANA, it provides a more accessible and focused solution for companies within its target revenue range.

Thus, choosing between these two ERP solutions requires a careful assessment of a company’s specific operational demands and long-term growth strategies. Also, seeking assistance from an independent ERP consultant can significantly aid the decision-making process. To get a 360-degree view of feature comparisons, it’s essential to explore not only SAP S/4 HANA vs. Epicor Kinetic but also insights from other analyses such as SAP S/4 HANA vs Oracle Cloud ERP, NetSuite, Acumatica, MS Dynamics 365 F&O, MS Dynamics 365 BC, Infor CloudSuite LN, and Infor CloudSuite M3.

FAQs

Microsoft Dynamics 365 F&O stands out for its enhanced cloud-native functionality, leading in capabilities over competitors like SAP S/4 HANA and Oracle Cloud ERP. It caters to large, global companies with complex business models, offering mature technology and a successful track record across industries. In contrast, Epicor Kinetic boasts a sophisticated data model, surpassing entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica or NetSuite. Dynamics F&O targets large, complex global companies with revenues nearing $1B and several entities globally. Whereas, Epicor Kinetic is positioned for companies in the $50M – $750M revenue range and it has a strong customer base within this bracket.

Dynamics 365 F&O is ideal for companies with diverse global entities, spanning industries like manufacturing, distribution, and construction. Whereas, Epicor Kinetic excels in catering to manufacturing companies with formal processes. Its distinctive data model and BOM structure, coupled with robust planning capabilities for dimensional inventory, make it ideal for industries like metal, fasteners, fabrication, aerospace, automotive, and medical devices. 

However, navigating the Microsoft Dynamics 365 ecosystem may require assistance due to the presence of unqualified partners. Despite some technical issues, Dynamics F&O remains a solid choice for companies of varying sizes and models. On the other hand, Epicor Kinetic is tailored for companies advancing beyond basic transactional processing, it targets those in need of mature manufacturing capabilities such as MRP, allocation, and scheduling. Choosing between Dynamics F&O vs Epicor Kinetic requires a detailed examination, and this comparison offers valuable insights for ERP selection projects. Let’s delve deeper into the specifics.

	MS Dynamics 365 F&O	Epicor Kinetic
Started in	One of the most established enterprise software companies in the world	Rebranding in 2021 (legacy version existed for more than 20 years)
Ownership by	Microsoft	CD&R, over $57B in assets, and CVC with over $220B in assets
No. of customers	50,000+	23,000+

What is Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations (F&O)?

Microsoft Dynamics 365 F&O is often the third choice for larger global accounts, following SAP S/4 HANA and Oracle Cloud ERP. It offers a mature ecosystem with modern, cloud-native technologies, thus proving successful across various industries. It is perhaps the most diverse solution accommodating several global business models in one database, making it an ideal solution particularly for lower enterprise companies. While a great fit as a corporate ledger for large enterprises, it’s not as proven as other leading solutions in the enterprise market with workloads as high as millions of journal entries per hour that Fortune 1000 companies might demand.

Microsoft Dynamics 365 F&O also excels in localizations where other solutions may falter. A vibrant ecosystem makes it suitable for private equity and also holding companies aiming to streamline their portfolio companies on one solution. SMBs, however, might find its complex data model overwhelming.  Large, complex global companies with revenues exceeding $1B will particularly find Microsoft Dynamics 365 F&O appealing. 

Although Microsoft Dynamics 365 F&O lacks the operational depth of specialized solutions, larger companies favor its corporate-level financial control. In a two-tier setting, they often particularly utilize additional Dynamics 365 F&O add-ons like Adeaca for operational requirements. Furthermore, Dynamics F&O offers seamless integration for field service, HCM, and CRM at the database level, empowering large companies to construct a best-of-breed architecture. It is especially strong with WBS-centric processes covering operational and financial schedules equally well. Hence, the challenge with MS Dynamics F&O would be the best-of-breed ancillary systems critical for A&D systems, which are not owned and maintained by Microsoft, requiring third-party add-ons.

What Is Epicor Kinetic?

Epicor Kinetic, their flagship solution, particularly excels in catering to manufacturing companies with formal processes. Its distinctive data model and BOM structure, coupled with robust planning capabilities for dimensional inventory, make it ideal for industries like metal, fasteners, fabrication, aerospace, automotive, and medical devices. Epicor Kinetic’s versatile data model addresses complex planning needs for companies particularly with diverse business models, encompassing manufacturing, distribution, and construction. Moreover, its advanced features support WBS-centric processes, enabling efficient management of large manufacturing programs with centralized cost tracking.

Epicor Kinetic boasts a sophisticated data model, surpassing entry-level ERP systems particularly like Acumatica or NetSuite. Tailored for companies advancing beyond basic transactional processing, it targets those in need of mature manufacturing capabilities such as MRP, allocation, and scheduling. Implementation success with Epicor Kinetic also requires substantial expertise in process and data coding, making it unsuitable for founder-led companies lacking seasoned operational and financial executives with ERP experience. Given its rigid revision model, companies with suboptimal SKU and BOM models may face challenges during implementation, emphasizing the need for robust internal capabilities and advisory support.

Epicor Kinetic has also undergone noteworthy technological advancements, adopting a look and feel reminiscent of Microsoft Dynamics ERP systems. Despite its legacy status, it supports mature cloud capabilities like enterprise search. Positioned for companies particularly in the $50M – $750M revenue range, it has a strong customer base within this bracket. Current limitations also include its field service capabilities, which are being addressed through an acquired add-on, and its finance and accounting module, not as tightly integrated as other modern cloud-native solutions.

Dynamics F&O vs Epicor Kinetic Comparison

Navigating the choice between Dynamics F&O vs Epicor Kinetic is a significant decision for businesses particularly looking for operational efficiency and strategic alignment. Thus, this section delves into the comprehensive comparison of Dynamics F&O vs Epicor Kinetic across various critical dimensions.

	MS Dynamics 365 F&O	Epicor Kinetic
Global Operational Capabilities	Can host multiple entities from different countries.	The limited number of global and financial layers would require inefficient workarounds, particularly like using sub-accounts for traceability.
Diverse Capabilities	Can accommodate most business models, may require add-ons.	The versatile data model addresses complex planning needs for companies with diverse business models, including manufacturing, distribution, and construction.
Best-of-breed Capabilities	Crucial capabilities such as PLM, etc, may not be pre-integrated.	Limited, relying on third party add-ons for field service and quality module.
Last-mile Capabilities	May require add-ons for specific micro-verticals.	Pre-packaged capabilities for metal, automotive, and aerospace verticals.
Operational Functionalities	Rich operational functionality for large enterprises.	Equipped with strong mixed-mode manufacturing capabilities, and strong WBS-centric processes.
Integration Capabilities	Pre-integrated with CRM and field service.	With out-of-the-box MES functionality, particularly appeals to smaller companies seeking pre-integrated Industry 4.0 capabilities.
Manufacturing Capabilities	Mature capabilities support diverse models.	Manufacturing organizations with formal processes and revision numbers will relate more.
Pricing Model	Cost per user per month with flexible user management, without long-term commitment.	Per user, monthly.
Key Modules	1. Financial Management 2. Supply Chain Management 3. Manufacturing Management 4. Human Capital Management 5. Business Intelligence and Reporting 6. Security and Compliance 7. Develop and Customize 8. System Administration	1. Financial Management 2. Supply Chain Management 3. Production Management 4. Risk and Compliance 5. Customer Relationship Management 6. Project Management 7. Cloud Business Platform 8. Business Intelligence and Analytics 9. Planning and Scheduling 10. Services and Assets 11. Omnichannel Sales 12. Product Management 13. Global Business Management

Dynamics F&O vs Epicor Kinetic Feature Comparison

Both platforms offer a plethora of features and functionalities designed to streamline business operations and enhance efficiency. In this feature comparison, we delve into particularly the distinct capabilities of Dynamics F&O vs Epicor Kinetic across various critical dimensions, providing insights to aid businesses in making informed decisions regarding their ERP selection. Thus, this section discusses features under each of the following modules, particularly financial management, supply chain management, and manufacturing management.

Financial Management Comparison

In this section, we are discussing a detailed comparison of the financial management capabilities particularly offered by Dynamics F&O vs Epicor Kinetic. By examining their respective strengths and functionalities, particularly in managing financial processes. Businesses can therefore gain valuable insights to determine the best-suited ERP solution for their financial management needs.

		MS Dynamics 365 F&O	Epicor Kinetic
Financial Management	General Ledger	Creates and maintains accurate records for financial transactions and generates regular financial reports.	It is a customizable, secure core component of its Financial Management suite. Offers accounting controls, seamless integration with other financial modules, global capabilities, and also advanced reporting tools.
	Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable	Automates workflows for managing vendor invoices, payments, and customer invoicing, streamlining the entire invoicing process and improving cash flow management.	Includes AR (managing invoicing, credit, cash, and customer payments) and AP (automating invoice processing, supporting multiple payment methods, and tracking expenses).
	Cash Flow Management	Provides comprehensive cash flow forecasting capabilities, allowing to project future cash positions, identify potential shortfalls, and make informed decisions.	Features automated cash handling, bank reconciliation, multi-currency and multi-bank management, integration with other financial modules, and also real-time reporting and analysis.
	Other Features	Chart of Accounts -Enables the creation of a hierarchical structure for categorizing financial information.	Currency Management – Simplifies multi-currency transactions, automates exchange rate management, integrates with other financial modules, ensures global compliance, and provides real-time reporting and analysis.
		Budgeting and Forecasting – Creates and manages budgets across different departments and business units. Also, leverages historical data and predictive analytics, to make accurate projections and align their financial strategies with business goals.	Tax Management – Automates sales and use tax calculations, integrates with financial modules, supports multiple jurisdictions, provides real-time updates, and simplifies reporting and filing.

Supply Chain Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the supply chain management capabilities of Dynamics F&O vs Epicor Kinetic, shedding light particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

		MS Dynamics 365 F&O	Epicor Kinetic
Supply Chain Management	Warehouse Management	Provides advanced warehouse and transportation management features, including inventory tracking, order fulfillment, shipment planning, and real-time visibility into logistics operations.	Optimizes operations with real-time inventory tracking, advanced material management, seamless integration with other systems, and configurable workflows.
	Service Management	Establishes service agreements and service subscriptions, handles service orders and customer inquiries, and manages and analyzes the delivery of services to customers.	Streamlines operations with maintenance management, service contract handling, case management, RMA tracking, and real-time insights for efficient equipment upkeep and customer support.
	Inventory Management	Offers real-time visibility into inventory levels, demand, and supply, enabling organizations to optimize their inventory planning, reduce stockouts, and improve customer satisfaction.	Optimizes processes with detailed tracking, smart planning, advanced units of measure, automated purchase contracts, and seamless integration with supply chain and production modules.
	Other Features	Procurement and Sourcing – Streamlines the procurement process by providing end-to-end visibility and control over purchasing activities. Also automates and optimizes the procurement workflows, reducing costs and improving supplier relationships.	Purchase Order Management – Streamlines procurement with tools for supplier negotiations, order tracking, automated processes, and supplier relationship management.
		Transportation Management – Offers real-time visibility into logistics operations.	Sales Order Management – Streamlines sales with features for order tracking, automation, estimating, cross-functional collaboration, and eCommerce integration.
		Demand Planning and Forecasting – Generates accurate demand forecasts, helping organizations optimize production planning, inventory levels, and procurement decisions.	Requisition Management – Automates procurement with real-time budget checks, vendor support, standing and blanket orders, multi-level approvals, and effective expenditure management.

Manufacturing Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the manufacturing management capabilities of Dynamics F&O vs Epicor Kinetic, shedding light, particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

		MS Dynamics 365 F&O	Epicor Kinetic
Manufacturing Management	Production Planning	Provides comprehensive production planning and control capabilities, allowing organizations to optimize their manufacturing processes. The system supports various production scenarios, including make-to-order, make-to-stock, and engineer-to-order, while providing real-time visibility into production schedules, resource allocation, and material requirements.	Enhances manufacturing efficiency with Master Production Scheduling, Material Requirements Planning, Advanced Planning and Scheduling, Job Management, Lean Manufacturing, Quality Management, and Advanced MES for real-time monitoring.
	Other Features	Shop Floor Management – Offers real-time monitoring of shop floor activities, capturing data on machine utilization, labor productivity, and production progress.	BOM and Routing – Streamlines production with multi-level BOM management, dynamic BOM creation, CAD and PLM integration, strong change control, centralized routing management, detailed routing steps, real-time adjustments, and precise cost and time estimation.
		Product Lifecycle Management – Enables organizations to manage the entire product lifecycle, from design and engineering to manufacturing and after-sales service. The system integrates product data, engineering change orders, and quality management processes, ensuring seamless collaboration and visibility across different departments.	Advanced Planning and Scheduling – Enhances production efficiency with automated scheduling, flexible capacity planning, real-time adjustments, what-if scenarios, integrated material constraints, and multi-site management.

Pros of Dynamics F&O vs Epicor Kinetic

When evaluating ERP solutions, understanding the distinct advantages of Dynamics F&O vs Epicor Kinetic is crucial. In this section, we are particularly exploring the strengths of Dynamics F&O vs Epicor Kinetic across various dimensions. Thus, shedding light on their respective capabilities and functionalities.

MS Dynamics 365 F&O	Epicor Kinetic
Has a significant advantage in its extensive consulting base and a vibrant marketplace, a unique benefit unmatched by many ERP systems.	Epicor has a very similar look and feel to Microsoft ERP products, providing you with the same experience but with much deeper last-mile capabilities.
Supports global operations and business models and pre-baked integration for the best-of-breed CRM and field service solutions.	90% of the capabilities required by verticals such as metal, automotive, and aerospace are pre-packaged with the core platform.
Embedded WMS and TMS processes help companies that might require end-to-end traceability even after the good leaves the dock.	Great fit for manufacturing organizations that follow formal manufacturing processes with revision numbers.
Legacy product rearchitected for the cloud. So, while better than other legacy products that might be behind in the cloud.	Although a legacy product, it includes mature cloud capabilities such as enterprise search and transactional maps for end-to-end transactional traceability.

Cons of Dynamics F&O vs Epicor Kinetic

Just like recognizing strengths is important, it’s also crucial to weigh the specific drawbacks of Dynamics F&O vs Epicor Kinetic. Therefore, in this section, we will delve into the limitations and challenges associated with Dynamics F&O vs Epicor Kinetic across various operational and financial dimensions.

MS Dynamics 365 F&O	Epicor Kinetic
Overwhelming for smaller companies with the configuration and approval flows built for large enterprises.	The data layers are highly detailed, requiring substantial consulting help to be successful with the product.
Might not be able to match the performance expectations of larger organizations where processing millions of journal entries per hour is required.	The limited focus on certain business models poses the risk of requiring other ERP systems to support complex and diverse business operations.
Overbloated financial control processes, such as compliance, allocation, and approval flows, which are only necessary for large organizations.	The field service capabilities are not as embedded and proven as some of the other products.
May require consulting assistance to navigate the channel, given the presence of unqualified ISVs and VARs.	Epicor takes a suite approach to its products while selling directly to its customers. This limits the overall consulting and marketplace penetration.
Integration with A&D-specific PLMs, configurators, and CPQ systems is not out-of-the-box, increasing the implementation time and costs.	Requires ad-hoc arrangements for larger mid-market companies with more than three financial hierarchies.
The last-mile capabilities for specific A&D verticals, such as integration with GovCon processes and databases, may require solutions from third parties or custom integration, making the implementation overly expensive.	Finance and accounting layers are not going to be as strong as some of the other products.

Conclusion

In conclusion, in the case of Dynamics F&O vs Epicor Kinetic, both offer robust ERP solutions, but they cater to different segments of the market with unique strengths. Dynamics F&O is also a comprehensive solution ideal for large, complex global companies with revenues approaching $1 billion. It excels in providing mature cloud-native capabilities, extensive global localization, and also a broad ecosystem that supports various business models, from manufacturing to distribution. However, its complexity and the need for add-ons may pose challenges for smaller companies or those requiring specific operational functionalities.

On the other hand, Epicor Kinetic is a powerful choice for mid-market companies, particularly in the manufacturing sector. Its advanced data model, strong planning capabilities, and industry-specific features make it an excellent fit for industries particularly like aerospace, automotive, and metal fabrication. While it lacks the global reach and extensive marketplace of Dynamics F&O, Epicor Kinetic’s focus on formal manufacturing processes and last-mile capabilities provides significant value for companies within its target market.

Both systems have their strengths and limitations, so businesses should carefully evaluate their specific needs and growth aspirations to determine the most suitable ERP solution. Also, seeking assistance from an independent ERP consultant can significantly aid the decision-making process. To get a 360-degree view of feature comparisons, it’s essential to explore not only Dynamics F&O vs. Epicor Kinetic but also insights from other analyses such as Dynamics F&O vs.SAP S/4 HANA, Acumatica, Oracle Cloud ERP, NetSuite, MS Dynamics 365 BC, Infor CloudSuite LN, and Infor CloudSuite M3.

FAQs

Epicor Kinetic, surpasses entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica or NetSuite. On the other hand, NetSuite caters well to globally spread small to mid-market companies seeking robust financial capabilities with localization in numerous countries. Epicor Kinetic is positioned for companies in the $50M – $750M revenue range and it has a strong customer base within this bracket. Whereas, NetSuite targets companies from $10M-$1B in revenue with global presence and need for stronger financial capabilities.

Epicor Kinetic excels in catering to manufacturing companies with formal processes. Its distinctive data model and BOM structure, coupled with robust planning capabilities for dimensional inventory, make it ideal for industries like metal, fasteners, fabrication, aerospace, automotive, and medical devices. Conversely, NetSuite is suitable for a diverse range of companies, including service-centric, distribution-centric, commerce-centric, and B2C organizations. It also performs well across various industries but may lack depth for industrial distributors and manufacturers, focusing more on lighter manufacturing and consumerized products like health and beauty, fashion, apparel, and CPG.

Epicor Kinetic is also tailored for companies advancing beyond basic transactional processing, it targets those in need of mature manufacturing capabilities such as MRP, allocation, and scheduling. Whereas, with robust financial capabilities and an integrated HCM solution, NetSuite is well-suited for service-centric industries, including smaller banks, credit unions, financial services, non-profit organizations, as well as the technology and media sectors. Choosing between NetSuite vs Epicor Kinetic requires a detailed examination, and this comparison offers valuable insights for ERP selection projects. Let’s delve deeper into the specifics.

	NetSuite	Epicor Kinetic
Started in	1998	Rebranding in 2021 (legacy version existed for more than 20 years)
Ownership by	Oracle in 2016	CD&R, over $57B in assets, potentially selling to a new buyer soon
No. of customers	37,000+	23,000+

What is NetSuite?

NetSuite stands out as the leading ERP solution, driven by its success particularly for diverse industries seeking stronger financial capabilities over the operational, robust ecosystem, credible marketplace add-ons, and comprehensive functionality. Not as complex as some competitors like SAP S/4 HANA and Microsoft F&O, NetSuite also excels in supporting diverse business models, including omnichannel architecture, matrix/dimensional inventory, and subscription-based models.

While NetSuite excels across industries, it may not be the ideal choice for industrial distributors and manufacturers due to limitations in pricing and item master capabilities. Its strength lies in supporting lighter manufacturing and also consumerized products like health and beauty, fashion, apparel, and CPG. With robust financial capabilities and an integrated HCM solution, NetSuite is well-suited for service-centric industries, including smaller banks, credit unions, financial services, non-profit organizations, as well as the technology and media sectors.

While NetSuite remains the top-ranked solution due to its product quality, there might be challenges with over-customization and integration issues, leading to implementation failures. Working with NetSuite demands thorough vetting of their solution and architecture.

What Is Epicor Kinetic?

Epicor Kinetic, their flagship solution, particularly excels in catering to manufacturing companies with formal processes. Its distinctive data model and BOM structure, coupled with robust planning capabilities for dimensional inventory, make it ideal for industries like metal, fasteners, fabrication, aerospace, automotive, and medical devices. Epicor Kinetic’s versatile data model addresses complex planning needs for companies particularly with diverse business models, encompassing manufacturing, distribution, and construction. Moreover, its advanced features support WBS-centric processes, enabling efficient management of large manufacturing programs with centralized cost tracking.

Epicor Kinetic boasts a sophisticated data model, surpassing entry-level ERP systems particularly like Acumatica or NetSuite. Tailored for companies advancing beyond basic transactional processing, it targets those in need of mature manufacturing capabilities such as MRP, allocation, and scheduling. Implementation success with Epicor Kinetic also requires substantial expertise in process and data coding, making it unsuitable for founder-led companies lacking seasoned operational and financial executives with ERP experience. Given its rigid revision model, companies with suboptimal SKU and BOM models may face challenges during implementation, emphasizing the need for robust internal capabilities and advisory support.

Epicor Kinetic has also undergone noteworthy technological advancements, adopting a look and feel reminiscent of Microsoft Dynamics ERP systems. Despite its legacy status, it supports mature cloud capabilities like enterprise search. Positioned for companies particularly in the $50M – $750M revenue range, it has a strong customer base within this bracket. Current limitations also include its field service capabilities, which are being addressed through an acquired add-on, and its finance and accounting module, not as tightly integrated as other modern cloud-native solutions.

NetSuite vs Epicor Kinetic Comparison

Navigating the choice between NetSuite vs Epicor Kinetic is a significant decision for businesses particularly looking for operational efficiency and strategic alignment. Thus, this section delves into the comprehensive comparison of NetSuite vs Epicor Kinetic across various critical dimensions.

	NetSuite	Epicor Kinetic
Global Operational Capabilities	Natively localized in over 100 countries.	The limited number of global and financial layers would require inefficient workarounds, particularly like using sub-accounts for traceability.
Diverse Capabilities	Supports diverse business models across multiple countries.	The versatile data model addresses complex planning needs for companies with diverse business models, including manufacturing, distribution, and construction.
Best-of-breed Capabilities	Contains pre-integrated components like HCM and FP&A, though the maturity of these components may vary.	Limited, relying on third party add-ons for field service and quality module.
Last-mile Capabilities	Limited last-mile capabilities, especially for manufacturing.	Pre-packaged capabilities for metal, automotive, and aerospace verticals.
Operational Functionalities	Richer financial capabilities over operational features.	Equipped with strong mixed-mode manufacturing capabilities, and strong WBS-centric processes.
Integration Capabilities	Offers several pre-integrated solutions with more options from Celigo.	With out-of-the-box MES functionality, appeals to smaller companies seeking pre-integrated Industry 4.0 capabilities.
Manufacturing Capabilities	Limited BOM layers for assembly-centric operations, requiring additional add-ons.	Manufacturing organizations with formal processes and revision numbers will relate more.
Pricing Model	Named-user based with inflexible long-term contracts.	Per user, monthly.
Key Modules	1. Financial Management 2. Accounting 3. Global Business Management 4. Inventory Management 5. Order Management 6. Supply Chain Management 7. Warehouse Management 8. Procurement 9. Customer Relationship Management	1. Financial Management 2. Supply Chain Management 3. Production Management 4. Risk and Compliance 5. Customer Relationship Management 6. Project Management 7. Cloud Business Platform 8. Business Intelligence and Analytics 9. Planning and Scheduling 10. Services and Assets 11. Omnichannel Sales 12. Product Management 13. Global Business Management

NetSuite vs Epicor Kinetic Feature Comparison

Both platforms offer a plethora of features and functionalities designed to streamline business operations and enhance efficiency. In this feature comparison, we delve into particularly the distinct capabilities of NetSuite vs Epicor Kinetic across various critical dimensions, providing insights to aid businesses in making informed decisions regarding their ERP selection. Thus, this section discusses features under each of the following modules, particularly financial management, and supply chain management.

Financial Management Comparison

In this section, we are discussing a detailed comparison of the financial management capabilities particularly offered by NetSuite vs Epicor Kinetic. By examining their respective strengths and functionalities, particularly in managing financial processes. Businesses can therefore gain valuable insights to determine the best-suited ERP solution for their financial management needs.

		NetSuite	Epicor Kinetic
Financial Management	General Ledger	Supports complex general ledgers including public reporting requirements of several countries.	It is a customizable, secure core component of its Financial Management suite. Offers accounting controls, seamless integration with other financial modules, global capabilities, and also advanced reporting tools.
	Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable	Automates and streamlines invoice delivery, payment processing, and collections management as well as accounts payable processes.	Includes AR (managing invoicing, credit, cash, and customer payments) and AP (automating invoice processing, supporting multiple payment methods, and tracking expenses).
	Cash Flow Management	Provides visibility to optimize cash flows, monitor bank accounts, and manage liquidity.	Features automated cash handling, bank reconciliation, multi-currency and multi-bank management, integration with other financial modules, and real-time reporting and analysis.
	Tax Management	Manages domestic and global tax, generates detailed reports, and analyzes transactions real-time.	Automates sales and use tax calculations, integrates with financial modules, supports multiple jurisdictions, provides real-time updates, and simplifies reporting and filing.

Supply Chain Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the supply chain management capabilities of NetSuite vs Epicor Kinetic, shedding light particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

		NetSuite	Epicor Kinetic
Supply Chain Management	Warehouse Management	Provides the ability to optimize day-to-day warehouse operations, eliminate manual processes and minimize handling costs.	Optimizes operations with real-time inventory tracking, advanced material management, seamless integration with other systems, and configurable workflows.
	Service Management	Automates inventory management processes with multi-location fulfilment, cycle counting, replenishment, traceability and item visibility.	Streamlines operations with maintenance management, service contract handling, case management, RMA tracking, and real-time insights for efficient equipment upkeep and customer support.
	Inventory Management	Provides the ability to optimize day-to-day warehouse operations, eliminate manual processes and minimize handling costs.	Optimizes processes with detailed tracking, smart planning, advanced units of measure, automated purchase contracts, and seamless integration with supply chain and production modules.
	Procurement	Streamlines procurement processes with source management, purchase management, vendor management and invoice processing.	Streamlines procurement with tools for supplier negotiations, order tracking, automated processes, and supplier relationship management.
	Other Features	Supply Chain Planning – Provides the ability to analyze demand, determine replenishment requirements, add stock and create orders according to an up-to-date supply plan.	Purchase Order Management – Streamlines procurement with tools for supplier negotiations, order tracking, automated processes, and supplier relationship management.
		Supply Chain Execution– Optimizes all supply chain assets, controls costs at each step.	Sales Order Management – Streamlines sales with features for order tracking, automation, estimating, cross-functional collaboration, and eCommerce integration.

Pros of NetSuite vs Epicor Kinetic

When evaluating ERP solutions, understanding the distinct advantages of NetSuite vs Epicor Kinetic is crucial. In this section, we are particularly exploring the strengths of NetSuite vs Epicor Kinetic across various dimensions. Thus, shedding light on their respective capabilities and functionalities.

NetSuite	Epicor Kinetic
Provides richer financial capabilities over operational, with leaner operational layers built with the product compared to Epicor Kinetic.	Epicor has a very similar look and feel to Microsoft ERP products, providing you with the same experience but with much deeper last-mile capabilities.
Ideal for SMBs operating in different countries.	90% of the capabilities required by verticals such as metal, automotive, and aerospace are pre-packaged with the core platform.
The data model is B2C friendly, supporting integration with B2C channels.	Great fit for manufacturing organizations that follow formal manufacturing processes with revision numbers.
Ideal for eCommerce-centric SMBs because of the ecosystem and the integration operations available for eCommerce-centric companies.	Although a legacy product, it includes mature cloud capabilities such as enterprise search and transactional maps for end-to-end transactional traceability.

Cons of NetSuite vs Epicor Kinetic

Just like recognizing strengths is important, it’s also crucial to weigh the specific drawbacks of NetSuite vs Epicor Kinetic. Therefore, in this section, we will delve into the limitations and challenges associated with NetSuite vs Epicor Kinetic across various operational and financial dimensions.

NetSuite	Epicor Kinetic
Not a great value for companies operating only in a few countries.	The data layers are highly detailed, requiring substantial consulting help to be successful with the product.
May struggle with transactional workload requirements of companies over $1B and the ones that might be acquiring 10-20 entities every year.	The limited focus on certain business models poses the risk of requiring other ERP systems to support complex and diverse business operations.
Not ideal for startups with simpler operating models.	The field service capabilities are not as embedded and proven as some of the other products.
Named-user-based pricing requires allocating fixed costs, even for seasonal workers or external users accessing the subset of data such as customer or vendor portals.	Epicor takes a suite approach to its products while selling directly to its customers. This limits the overall consulting and marketplace penetration.
Not fit for companies seeking OEM-owned integration with core operational systems such as CAD or PLM.	Requires ad-hoc arrangements for larger mid-market companies with more than three financial hierarchies.
The last-mile capabilities required for manufacturing or industrial distribution are extremely limited.	Finance and accounting layers are not going to be as strong as some of the other products.

Conclusion

In conclusion, NetSuite vs Epicor Kinetic present compelling options for businesses seeking ERP solutions, but they cater to different needs and industries. NetSuite shines in its ability to support diverse global SMBs, particularly those in service-centric, distribution-centric, and B2C verticals, offering robust financial capabilities and a strong ecosystem of integrated solutions. Its flexibility makes it an ideal choice particularly for companies operating across multiple countries with complex financial reporting needs. However, NetSuite may fall short in handling the intricacies of industrial distribution and manufacturing, especially for businesses requiring deep operational capabilities.

On the other hand, Epicor Kinetic is tailored for manufacturing companies with formal processes, excelling in industries like metal, fasteners, aerospace, and automotive. Its advanced data model and strong planning capabilities make it a powerful tool for companies with complex manufacturing needs, particularly those within the $50M – $750M revenue range. While it may lack the global reach and financial depth of NetSuite, Epicor Kinetic offers superior last-mile capabilities for specific industries.

Choosing between these two ERP solutions requires a careful assessment of a company’s specific operational demands and also long-term growth strategies. Also, seeking assistance from an independent ERP consultant can significantly aid the decision-making process. To get a 360-degree view of feature comparisons, it’s essential to explore not only NetSuite vs. Epicor Kinetic but also insights from other analyses such as NetSuite vs. SAP S/4 HANA, Acumatica, Oracle Cloud ERP, MS Dynamics 365 F&O, MS Dynamics 365 BC, Infor CloudSuite LN, and Infor CloudSuite M3.

FAQs

Acumatica stands out among three cloud-native ERP vendors particularly focusing on small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), alongside NetSuite and Sage Intacct. On the other hand, Epicor Kinetic boasts a sophisticated data model, surpassing entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica or NetSuite. Acumatica, however, caters well to companies with revenues ranging from $10-100 million, offering limited native localization features yet suitable synergies for global operations. Whereas, Epicor Kinetic is positioned for companies in the $50M – $750M revenue range and it has a strong customer base within this bracket.

Acumatica’s strength lies in its multi-branch capabilities and tailored support for various business models such as manufacturing, distribution, construction, and field service. Whereas, Epicor Kinetic excels in catering to manufacturing companies with formal processes. Its distinctive data model and BOM structure, coupled with robust planning capabilities for dimensional inventory, make it ideal for industries like metal, fasteners, fabrication, aerospace, automotive, and medical devices.

Acumatica also serves as an excellent entry-level system for companies transitioning from QuickBooks or smaller point systems, seeking seamless cross-functional integration. On the other hand, Epicor Kinetic is tailored for companies advancing beyond basic transactional processing, it targets those in need of mature manufacturing capabilities such as MRP, allocation, and scheduling. Therefore, choosing between Acumatica vs Epicor Kinetic requires a detailed examination, and this comparison offers valuable insights for ERP selection projects. Let’s delve deeper into the specifics.

	Acumatica	Epicor Kinetic
Started in	2008	Rebranding in 2021 (legacy version existed for more than 20 years)
Ownership by	EQT Partners in 2019	CD&R, over $57B in assets, potentially selling to a new buyer soon
No. of customers	10,000+	23,000+

What is Acumatica?

Acumatica is one of three cloud-native ERP solutions particularly similar to NetSuite and Sage Intacct. It has extensive multi-branch capabilities, particularly making it friendlier for retail-centric operations. It can also host multiple business models as part of the same database spanning manufacturing, distribution, construction, and field service. Thus, making it friendlier for diverse manufacturing or distribution-centric operations. Because of its limited global operational capabilities, it primarily targets US and UK-based companies. Thus, positioned as an ideal choice for companies within the $10-100 million revenue range, the majority of Acumatica’s customer base falls under this category.

Desiring a user experience akin to Odoo or Quickbooks, Acumatica ERP also offers versatility to accommodate various business models: distribution, manufacturing, or construction-focused. Although Acumatica has limitations in mature features like dimensional inventory or allocation, it is an excellent initial system for companies looking to streamline inventory or costs. With transactional processing and some mature capabilities, such as batch transactional processing, Acumatica is positioned as a valuable choice for businesses venturing into their first or second ERP solution.

Acumatica ERP is a fit for companies seeking cloud-native experience, particularly emphasizing features like enterprise search and mobility over deeper operational capabilities. Despite its focus on small businesses, Acumatica lacks robust globalization and localization features, catering to a limited number of countries by default. This simplicity, however, benefits smaller companies by avoiding unnecessary layers of multi-entity operations. Although targeting small businesses, Acumatica ERP surpasses Odoo or Zoho with the flexibility of its data layers, necessitating consulting help for implementation. The perceived benefit of Acumatica’s pricing is also a challenge, as it’s notoriously difficult to understand and predict.

What Is Epicor Kinetic?

Epicor Kinetic, their flagship solution, particularly excels in catering to manufacturing companies with formal processes. Its distinctive data model and BOM structure, coupled with robust planning capabilities for dimensional inventory, make it ideal for industries like metal, fasteners, fabrication, aerospace, automotive, and medical devices. Epicor Kinetic’s versatile data model addresses complex planning needs for companies particularly with diverse business models, encompassing manufacturing, distribution, and construction. Moreover, its advanced features support WBS-centric processes, enabling efficient management of large manufacturing programs with centralized cost tracking.

Epicor Kinetic boasts a sophisticated data model, surpassing entry-level ERP systems particularly like Acumatica or NetSuite. Tailored for companies advancing beyond basic transactional processing, it targets those in need of mature manufacturing capabilities such as MRP, allocation, and scheduling. Implementation success with Epicor Kinetic also requires substantial expertise in process and data coding, making it unsuitable for founder-led companies lacking seasoned operational and financial executives with ERP experience. Given its rigid revision model, companies with suboptimal SKU and BOM models may face challenges during implementation, emphasizing the need for robust internal capabilities and advisory support.

Epicor Kinetic has also undergone noteworthy technological advancements, adopting a look and feel reminiscent of Microsoft Dynamics ERP systems. Despite its legacy status, it supports mature cloud capabilities like enterprise search. Positioned for companies particularly in the $50M – $750M revenue range, it has a strong customer base within this bracket. Current limitations also include its field service capabilities, which are being addressed through an acquired add-on, and its finance and accounting module, not as tightly integrated as other modern cloud-native solutions.

Acumatica vs Epicor Kinetic Comparison

Navigating the choice between Acumatica vs Epicor Kinetic is a significant decision for businesses particularly looking for operational efficiency and strategic alignment. Thus, this section delves into the comprehensive comparison of Acumatica vs Epicor Kinetic across various critical dimensions.

	Acumatica	Epicor Kinetic
Global Operational Capabilities	Limited multi-entity capabilities.	The limited number of global and financial layers would require inefficient workarounds, particularly like using sub-accounts for traceability.
Diverse Capabilities	Operationally rich for smaller companies, supporting various business models in one database.	The versatile data model addresses complex planning needs for companies with diverse business models, including manufacturing, distribution, and construction.
Best-of-breed Capabilities	Limited, relying on third-party add-ons.	Limited, relying on third party add-ons for field service and quality module.
Last-mile Capabilities	May require add-ons for specific micro-verticals.	Pre-packaged capabilities for metal, automotive, and aerospace verticals.
Operational Functionalities	Offers deeper operational capabilities and integration for smaller operations in fewer countries.	Equipped with strong mixed-mode manufacturing capabilities, and strong WBS-centric processes.
Integration Capabilities	Natively-integrated WMS functionality, lacks pre-integrated best-of-breed CRM, supports only embedded CRM.	With out-of-the-box MES functionality, appeals to smaller companies seeking pre-integrated Industry 4.0 capabilities.
Manufacturing Capabilities	Suitable for light manufacturing, limited mature capabilities.	Manufacturing organizations with formal processes and revision numbers will relate more.
Pricing Model	Consumption-based, named, and concurrent but requires long-term contracts.	Per user, monthly.
Key Modules	1. Financial Management 2. Construction Management 3. CRM 4. Distribution Management 5. Service Management 6. Manufacturing Management  7. Project Accounting Management 8. Payroll 9. Retail e-Commerce Management 10. Reporting, Dashboard and BI	1. Financial Management 2. Supply Chain Management 3. Production Management 4. Risk and Compliance 5. Customer Relationship Management 6. Project Management 7. Cloud Business Platform 8. Business Intelligence and Analytics 9. Planning and Scheduling 10. Services and Assets 11. Omnichannel Sales 12. Product Management 13. Global Business Management

Acumatica vs Epicor Kinetic Feature Comparison

Both platforms offer a plethora of features and functionalities designed to streamline business operations and enhance efficiency. In this feature comparison, we delve into particularly the distinct capabilities of Acumatica vs Epicor Kinetic across various critical dimensions, providing insights to aid businesses in making informed decisions regarding their ERP selection. Thus, this section discusses features under each of the following modules, particularly financial management, supply chain management, and manufacturing management.

Financial Management Comparison

In this section, we are discussing a detailed comparison of the financial management capabilities particularly offered by Acumatica vs Epicor Kinetic. By examining their respective strengths and functionalities, particularly in managing financial processes. Businesses can therefore gain valuable insights to determine the best-suited ERP solution for their financial management needs.

		Acumatica	Epicor Kinetic
Financial Management	General Ledger	Designed to support ledgers limited to support one country. Limited multi-ledger capabilities.	It is a customizable, secure core component of its Financial Management suite. Offers accounting controls, seamless integration with other financial modules, global capabilities, and also advanced reporting tools.
	Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable	The AR and AP might be limited to just one country with limited synergies among vendors from different countries.	Includes AR (managing invoicing, credit, cash, and customer payments) and AP (automating invoice processing, supporting multiple payment methods, and tracking expenses).
	Cash Flow Management	Manages day-to-day transactions, cash balances, funds transfers, and bank account reconciliations for smaller operations.	Features automated cash handling, bank reconciliation, multi-currency and multi-bank management, integration with other financial modules, and real-time reporting and analysis.
	Currency Management	Creates estimates for new or existing items, convert to bills of material, production orders.	Simplifies multi-currency transactions, automates exchange rate management, integrates with other financial modules, ensures global compliance, and provides real-time reporting and analysis.
	Tax Management	Provides centralized tax configuration, management, and reporting.	Automates sales and use tax calculations, integrates with financial modules, supports multiple jurisdictions, provides real-time updates, and simplifies reporting and filing.

Supply Chain Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the supply chain management capabilities of Acumatica vs Epicor Kinetic, shedding light particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

		Acumatica	Epicor Kinetic
Supply Chain Management	Warehouse Management	Provides real-time inventory visibility and streamlines warehouse operations.	Optimizes operations with real-time inventory tracking, advanced material management, seamless integration with other systems, and configurable workflows.
	Service Management	Enables quick service needs capture, assignment, and real-time tracking, with features like contract management and appointment schedules.	Streamlines operations with maintenance management, service contract handling, case management, RMA tracking, and real-time insights for efficient equipment upkeep and customer support.
	Inventory Management	Simplifies inventory processes with flexible item management and quality traceability.	Optimizes processes with detailed tracking, smart planning, advanced units of measure, automated purchase contracts, and seamless integration with supply chain and production modules.
	Purchase Order Management	Streamlines procurement processes with policy enforcement and process controls.	Streamlines procurement with tools for supplier negotiations, order tracking, automated processes, and supplier relationship management.
	Sales Order Management	Centrally manages sales activities and tracks prices and inventory.	Streamlines sales with features for order tracking, automation, estimating, cross-functional collaboration, and eCommerce integration.
	Requisition Management	Organizes complex distribution processes involving multiple products and suppliers.	Automates procurement with real-time budget checks, vendor support, standing and blanket orders, multi-level approvals, and effective expenditure management.

Manufacturing Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the manufacturing management capabilities of Acumatica vs Epicor Kinetic, shedding light, particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

		Acumatica	Epicor Kinetic
Manufacturing Management	Production Planning	Assists manufacturers in addressing production demand with the agility to adjust to fluctuating schedules, unforeseen equipment malfunctions, delayed deliveries from suppliers, and other unexpected occurrences affecting operations on the factory floor.	Enhances manufacturing efficiency with Master Production Scheduling, Material Requirements Planning, Advanced Planning and Scheduling, Job Management, Lean Manufacturing, Quality Management, and Advanced MES for real-time monitoring.
	BOM and Routing	Lets you efficiently plan and manage inventories, costs and manufacturing processes.	Streamlines production with multi-level BOM management, dynamic BOM creation, CAD and PLM integration, strong change control, centralized routing management, detailed routing steps, real-time adjustments, and precise cost and time estimation.
	Advanced Planning and Scheduling	Lets you create a more streamlined and accurate production scheduled, better enforce delivery dates and optimize for capacity.	Enhances production efficiency with automated scheduling, flexible capacity planning, real-time adjustments, what-if scenarios, integrated material constraints, and multi-site management.

Pros of Acumatica vs Epicor Kinetic

When evaluating ERP solutions, understanding the distinct advantages of Acumatica vs Epicor Kinetic is crucial. In this section, we are particularly exploring the strengths of Acumatica vs Epicor Kinetic across various dimensions. Thus, shedding light on their respective capabilities and functionalities.

Acumatica	Epicor Kinetic
Great 1st or 2nd ERP choice particularly due to limited layers and mature capabilities for larger companies.	Epicor has a very similar look and feel to Microsoft ERP products, providing you with the same experience but with much deeper last-mile capabilities.
Accommodates different business models spread in fewer countries under one database.	90% of the capabilities required by verticals such as metal, automotive, and aerospace are pre-packaged with the core platform.
Great fit for SMB B2B businesses with complex product mixes.	Great fit for manufacturing organizations that follow formal manufacturing processes with revision numbers.
Born in the cloud with consistent design principles across the application.	Although a legacy product, it includes mature cloud capabilities such as enterprise search and transactional maps for end-to-end transactional traceability.

Cons of Acumatica vs Epicor Kinetic

Just like recognizing strengths is important, it’s also crucial to weigh the specific drawbacks of Acumatica vs Epicor Kinetic. Therefore, in this section, we will delve into the limitations and challenges associated with Acumatica vs Epicor Kinetic across various operational and financial dimensions.

Acumatica	Epicor Kinetic
Limited capabilities when multiple countries with different currencies and sub-ledgers need to be hosted as part of the same solution.	The data layers are highly detailed, requiring substantial consulting help to be successful with the product.
Not fit for companies with over $100 million in revenue.	The limited focus on certain business models poses the risk of requiring other ERP systems to support complex and diverse business operations.
The mobile capabilities are leaner for complex reporting scenarios such as parallel processing or reporting labor.	The field service capabilities are not as embedded and proven as some of the other products.
Consumption-based pricing requires consulting expertise to estimate transactions as the pricing is not as predictable.	Epicor takes a suite approach to its products while selling directly to its customers. This limits the overall consulting and marketplace penetration.
Multiple add-ons such as MES, PLM, and quality, posing integration and communication challenges with the core systems required for complex manufacturing.	Requires ad-hoc arrangements for larger mid-market companies with more than three financial hierarchies.
The last-mile capabilities required for manufacturing or industrial distribution may not as strong as purpose-built solutions such as Infor or Epicor but comparable to vanilla solutions such as SAP S/4 HANA.	Finance and accounting layers are not going to be as strong as some of the other products.

Conclusion

Acumatica vs Epicor Kinetic, each of them offers distinct advantages tailored to different business needs. Acumatica excels as an entry-level ERP solution particularly for small to mid-sized businesses with simpler needs and limited global presence. Its cloud-native approach and flexible data model also makes it a suitable choice for companies seeking basic integration across various business models, including manufacturing and distribution. However, its limited localization and multi-entity capabilities may pose challenges for businesses with more complex global operations.

Conversely, Epicor Kinetic is designed for larger organizations with sophisticated manufacturing requirements and a broader global footprint. Its advanced features, such as Master Production Scheduling and a robust data model, cater to companies needing in-depth production planning and resource management. While it offers extensive functionality for industries like aerospace and automotive, its implementation requires considerable expertise, particularly for companies without seasoned ERP professionals. 

Both systems have their strengths and limitations, so businesses should carefully evaluate their specific needs and growth aspirations to determine the most suitable ERP solution. Also, seeking assistance from an independent ERP consultant can significantly aid the decision-making process. To get a 360-degree view of feature comparisons, it’s essential to explore not only Acumatica vs. Epicor Kinetic but also insights from other analyses such as Acumatica vs. NetSuite, SAP S/4 HANA, Oracle Cloud ERP, MS Dynamics 365 F&O, MS Dynamics 365 BC, Infor CloudSuite LN, and Infor CloudSuite M3.

FAQs

Infor LN and Infor M3 surpass entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica, Infor CSI, or NetSuite, by delivering mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing intertwined with distribution operations. They are also successful in the upper mid-market, targeting the $250M – $750M revenue range. They provide a superior suite experience akin to SAP and Oracle, featuring enterprise-grade best-of-breed functionalities, including PLM, WMS, WFM, BI, and a Supply Chain collaboration platform.

Infor CloudSuite M3 boasts extensive features tailored for process and apparel manufacturing, covering industries such as fashion, F&B, and chemicals. It is also adept at facilitating advanced global operations, particularly for companies spanning multiple countries seeking to optimize cost synergies globally. On the other hand, Infor LN excels in discrete manufacturing and offers a robust suite experience, it does face certain challenges in specific scenarios such as with process-centric operations for companies.

Choosing between Infor LN vs Infor M3 requires a detailed examination, and thus, this comparison offers valuable insights for ERP selection projects. Therefore, let’s explore further.

	Infor CloudSuite LN	Infor CloudSuite M3
Started in	2006 (when Infor acquired BaaN)	2006 (Acquired by Infor)
Ownership by	Koch Industries	Koch Industries
No. of customers	1000+	1000+

What Is Infor CloudSuite LN?

Infor CloudSuite LN is a complete product suite to meet the needs of an enterprise similar to Epicor, SAP, Oracle, or Microsoft. Infor is also perhaps the only vendor after the larger ones that has the capabilities to build best-of-breed architecture akin to SAP, Oracle, and Microsoft. In fact, Infor might have deeper capabilities than Microsoft in some areas with pre-integrated best-of-breed solutions such as Infor WFM and Nexus. Infor is also the only vendor that can provide depth in several industries while not struggling with the transactional processing requirements of large accounts.

Infor LN is ideal particularly for discrete manufacturing companies. It is successful in the upper mid-market, targeting the $250M – $750M revenue range. Positioned for companies surpassing entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica, Infor CSI, or NetSuite, this solution delivers mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing intertwined with distribution operations. Infor LN also provides a superior suite experience akin to SAP and Oracle, featuring enterprise-grade best-of-breed functionalities, including PLM, WMS, WFM, BI, and a supply chain collaboration platform.

While Infor LN excels in discrete manufacturing and offers a robust suite experience, it does face certain challenges in specific scenarios such as with process-centric operations for companies. They might also include business operations such as plastic or chemicals as part of their automotive operations. Despite limitations in broader capabilities compared to other vanilla solutions, recent upgrades acknowledge its broader application in various automotive business models.

What Is Infor CloudSuite M3?

Infor CloudSuite M3, is one of Infor’s flagship solutions, catering to particularly distinct micro-verticals across various industries. Sharing similar suites with Infor LN and also built on the Infor OS platform, it is successful in the upper mid-market, targeting the $250M – $750M revenue range. Positioned for companies surpassing entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica, Infor CSI, or NetSuite, this solution delivers mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing and also distribution operations. Infor CloudSuite M3 provides a superior suite experience akin to SAP and Oracle thus, featuring enterprise-grade best-of-breed functionalities, including PLM, WMS, WFM, BI, and a Supply Chain collaboration platform.

Infor CloudSuite M3 boasts extensive features tailored for process manufacturing and apparel manufacturing, covering industries such as fashion, F&B, and chemicals. It is also adept at facilitating advanced global operations, particularly for companies spanning multiple countries seeking to optimize cost synergies globally. The native capabilities of Infor M3 address global trade and compliance concerns, which are particularly crucial for international business operations.

While Infor CloudSuite M3 serves as an excellent operational solution for a 2-tier architecture for enterprise companies, its limited focus on certain industries might not be the best fit for enterprise companies diversifying their operations or aggressive with their M&A strategy. The intricate data model and Bill of Materials (BOM) demand significant internal expertise and also external advisory assistance to extract operational efficiencies. Notably, the technology landscape for Infor CloudSuite M3 remains somewhat patchy and less modern compared to its competitors. Furthermore, the ecosystem and consulting support for this solution is relatively limited. Despite these challenges, Infor CloudSuite M3 stands out as a robust manufacturing solution for upper mid-market companies with budget constraints.

Infor LN vs Infor M3 Comparison

Navigating the choice between Infor LN vs Infor M3 is a significant decision for businesses particularly looking for operational efficiency and strategic alignment. Thus, this section delves into the comprehensive comparison of Infor LN vs Infor M3 across various critical dimensions.

	Infor CloudSuite LN	Infor CloudSuite M3
Global Operational Capabilities	Has sufficient layers of financial hierarchies and global trade compliance functionality pre-baked with products.	Robust financial hierarchies and global trade compliance functionality integrated.
Diverse Capabilities	Limited focus on certain business models.	Supports diversified manufacturing business models.
Best-of-breed Capabilities	HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated with LN.	Best-of-breed integrations provided out-of-the-box.
Last-mile Capabilities	Last-mile capabilities along with breadth of capabilities for diversified manufacturing business models.	Last-mile capabilities along with breadth of capabilities for diversified manufacturing business models.
Operational Functionalities	Infor LN is a legacy solution with limited cloud-native capabilities such as universal search, mobile experience, etc.	Infor CloudSuite M3 is a legacy solution with limited cloud-natve capabilities such as universal search, mobile experience, etc.
Integration Capabilities	Most tools that a manufacturer would require, such as HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated with LN.	Tools such as HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated.
Manufacturing Capabilities	This solution delivers mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing and distribution operations.	Delivers mature capabilities for apparel, F&B, and chemical manufacturing.
Pricing Model	Subscription-based	Subscription-based
Key Modules	1. Financials 2. Human Resources 3. Manufacturing Management 4. Inventory Management 5. Purchasing Management 6. Quality Management 7. Sales Management 8. Product Technology	1. Financial Management 2. Manufacturing Operations 3. Enterprise Asset Management 4. Supply Chain Management 5. Customer Sales and Service 6. Application Foundation

Infor LN vs Infor M3 Feature Comparison

Both platforms offer a plethora of features and functionalities designed to streamline business operations and enhance efficiency. In this feature comparison, we delve into particularly the distinct capabilities of Infor LN vs Infor M3 across various critical dimensions, providing insights to aid businesses in making informed decisions regarding their ERP selection. Thus, this section discusses features under each of the following modules, particularly financial management, supply chain management, and manufacturing management.

Financial Management Comparison

In this section, we are discussing a detailed comparison of the financial management capabilities particularly offered by Infor LN vs Infor M3. By examining their respective strengths and functionalities, particularly in managing financial processes. Businesses can therefore gain valuable insights to determine the best-suited ERP solution for their financial management needs.

		Infor CloudSuite LN	Infor CloudSuite M3
Financial Management	General Ledger	The General Ledger is the core component of Infor LN Financials, recording all transactions within the application that affect accounting.	Enables organizations to manage financial transactions, maintain accurate balances, and generate complete financial statements.
	Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable	AR manages customer invoices and credit, while AP handles supplier invoices and balance management.	Supports analysis across all accounting dimensions, including non-reconciled data for the AP model.
	Cash Flow Management	Cash Management handles cash-related transactions, primarily involving payments to and receipts from business partners.	Provides complete control over accounts receivable and cash flow processes, unifying all AR information to monitor cash collection and enhance productivity and efficiency.
	Currency Management	The LN multicurrency systems allow a company to conduct accounting in multiple currencies, calculating and registering amounts in up to three currencies.	Enables currency conversion for better monetary analysis, allowing amounts to be expressed in transaction, division, and company currencies, with a default exchange rate type for conversions.
	Tax Management	Tax reporting is part of financial accounting and is limited to one country, so LN’s tax handling in a multicompany structure is similar to that in a single company environment.	Ensures accurate VAT calculation and recording for each country, automating tax calculations based on recipient location and country-specific rules, and maintaining financial compliance.

Supply Chain Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the supply chain management capabilities of Infor LN vs Infor M3, shedding light particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

		Infor CloudSuite LN	Infor CloudSuite M3
Supply Chain Management	Warehouse Management	Warehousing focuses on managing and replenishing goods within a warehouse, including tasks to report and analyze inventory movements.	Optimizes operations with inventory management, labor management, 3PL billing, and 3D visualization, enhancing efficiency and interactivity.
	Service Management	Manages the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of field-based and plant-based products, equipment, and systems.	Offers work order processing, maintenance, material management, and operation reporting, aiding global manufacturers, distributors, and after-sales service providers in managing complex value chains efficiently.
	Inventory Management	Can support complex inventory types including dedicated inventory masters for MRO or quality components for added granularity and control.	Provides advanced statistical forecasting and stock recommendations for efficient inventory management, as well as supplier and customer rebate management to maintain high margins.
	Purchase Order Management	Can create and modify purchase orders for purchasing goods.	Includes automation, vendor payment tracking, payment scheduling, check printing, open purchase order alerts, document management, direct ACH bill payment, and vendor records
	Requisition Management	Specifies nonsystem planned requirements for different types of items, including inventory items, cost items, and service items.	Automates procurement processes from requisition to payment, including supplier selection, purchase order management, and invoice matching.

Manufacturing Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the manufacturing management capabilities of Infor LN vs Infor M3, shedding light, particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

		Infor CloudSuite LN	Infor CloudSuite M3
Manufacturing Management	Production Planning	One of the most robust production planning capabilities including advanced planning and scheduling capabilities for diverse manufacturing operations.	Supports planning in both multi-facility and single-facility production environments, managing critical materials at the facility level.
	BOM and Routing	It is stored as general item data for LN in Item Production Data (IPD).	Defines the product structure and assembly sequence, listing components and specifying the operations, work centers, and machines required for manufacturing.
	Advanced Planning and Scheduling	Stores scheduling information for projects, allowing you to define project plans along with associated activities and milestones.	Generates real-time projections by comparing demands against a long-term plan, optimizing production resources, reducing costs, improving performance, and synchronizing supply chain operations.

Pros of Infor LN vs Infor M3

When evaluating ERP solutions, understanding the distinct advantages of Infor LN vs Infor M3 is crucial. In this section, we are particularly exploring the strengths of Infor LN vs Infor M3 across various dimensions. Thus, shedding light on their respective capabilities and functionalities.

Infor CloudSuite LN	Infor CloudSuite M3
Ideal for upper mid-market companies or as subsidiary solutions in a two-tier setting for private equity-owned or holding companies.	Ideal for upper mid-market companies or as subsidiary solutions in a two-tier setting for private equity-owned or holding companies.
It can support the most complex manufacturing business models, WBS-centric manufacturing, or support for attributes with MRP planning.	It can support the most complex manufacturing business models, WBS-centric manufacturing, or support for attributes with MRP planning.
Most tools that make-to manufacturer would require, such as HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated with LN.	Most tools that make-to manufacturer would require, such as HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated with Infor CloudSuite M3.
While most smaller solutions might require ad-hoc arrangements for global financial operations, Infor CloudSuite LN has them natively built.	While most smaller solutions might require ad-hoc arrangements for global financial operations, Infor CloudSuite M3 has them natively built.

Cons of Infor LN vs Infor M3

Just like recognizing strengths is important, it’s also crucial to weigh the specific drawbacks of Infor LN vs Infor M3. Therefore, in this section, we will delve into the limitations and challenges associated with Infor LN vs Infor M3 across various operational and financial dimensions.

Infor CloudSuite LN	Infor CloudSuite M3
The limited focus on certain business models poses the risk of requiring other ERP systems to support complex and diverse business operations such as process manufacturing or metal-centric A&D companies.	The limited focus on certain business models poses the risk of requiring other ERP systems to support complex and diverse business operations.
Private equity and holding companies requiring global solutions with a tier-2 solution at the subsidiary level might not be the best use of Infor LN’s strengths.	Private equity and holding companies requiring global solutions with a tier-2 solution at the subsidiary level might not be the best use of Infor CloudSuite M3’s strengths.
Infor LN is a legacy solution with limited cloud-native capabilities such as universal search, mobile experience, etc.	Infor CloudSuite M3 is a legacy solution with limited cloud-native capabilities such as universal search, mobile experience, etc
The consulting base and marketplaces are virtually non-existent for Infor LN.	The consulting base and marketplaces are virtually non-existent for Infor CloudSuite M3.
The integration of Infor LN with MES enhances its capabilities, particularly in complex manufacturing processes.	Verticals such as apparel manufacturing demand deeper integration of PLM, vendor portals, and merchandising solutions to effectively manage their unique processes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both Infor CloudSuite LN and Infor CloudSuite M3 are robust ERP solutions designed for the upper mid-market, offering specialized functionalities that cater to distinct industries and business needs. Infor LN stands out for its comprehensive support for complex discrete manufacturing models, also including intricate production planning and scheduling, which are crucial for sectors like automotive and aerospace.

On the other hand, Infor M3 excels in process and apparel manufacturing, providing a suite of features tailored for industries such as fashion, food and beverage, and chemicals. Both solutions offer a rich array of best-of-breed capabilities, including advanced financial management, supply chain management, and manufacturing management modules, making them viable options for companies seeking to enhance their operational efficiency and global reach.

Ultimately, the choice between Infor LN vs Infor M3 particularly depends on the specific requirements and strategic goals of the organization. Companies with a strong focus on discrete manufacturing may find Infor LN’s capabilities more aligned with their needs, while those involved in process or apparel manufacturing might benefit from Infor M3’s specialized features. Also, seeking assistance from an independent ERP consultant can significantly aid the decision-making process, offering specialized advice and direction tailored to the specific needs of the business.

FAQs