# Best Discrete ERP Software - Page 14 *By [Nathan Calabrese](https://research.g2.com/insights/author/nathan-calabrese)* Discrete ERP software manages most operational and back-office activities of manufacturing companies that produce distinct or individually separated products. Discrete ERP systems are used to plan, manage, and track production activities as well as other related processes such as inventory management, sales, purchasing, or accounting. By using discrete ERP software, manufacturers can identify what needs to be produced based on demand, what raw materials are required for production, and how to create and implement production plans. In addition, discrete ERP tools help manufacturers monitor the quality of the products and deliver them to customers. Due to its broad scope, discrete ERP software can be used by all departments of a manufacturing company, but it is critical for the production team. For optimal results, discrete ERP solutions should be used by accountants to manage financial transactions, by purchasing managers for fulfillment, or by warehouse managers to manage the inventory of raw materials and finished goods. Discrete ERP software can be delivered as a standalone solution or as a package combining multiple solutions. Many vendors also provide a core package and additional modules that can be bought separately. This type of software needs to integrate with other enterprise software such as [CRM all-in-one software](https://www.g2.com/categories/crm-all-in-one), [supply chain suites](https://www.g2.com/categories/supply-chain-suites), [PLM software](https://www.g2.com/categories/plm), and [HR management suites](https://www.g2.com/categories/hr-management-suites). To qualify for inclusion in the Discrete ERP category, a product must: - Provide robust accounting features or tight integration with accounting software - Include features to create and manage multiple types of bills of materials - Create and consolidate purchase orders for raw materials and finished products - Capture sales orders from customers and match them with product availability - Manage inventory or raw materials and finished products in multiple locations - Identify and allocate the equipment and human resources needed for production - Create and implement production plans depending on demand and capacity - Monitor quality standards for products during production and warehouse storage - Provide features to ship products to customers or distributors and track returns - Track production and administrative costs per department or activity - Include financial reporting and dashboards as well as financial statements ## How Many Discrete ERP Software Products Does G2 Track? **Total Products under this Category:** 213 ## How Does G2 Rank Discrete ERP Software Products? **Why You Can Trust G2's Software Rankings:** - 30 Analysts and Data Experts - 14,700+ Authentic Reviews - 213+ Products - Unbiased Rankings G2's software rankings are built on verified user reviews, rigorous moderation, and a consistent research methodology maintained by a team of analysts and data experts. Each product is measured using the same transparent criteria, with no paid placement or vendor influence. While reviews reflect real user experiences, which can be subjective, they offer valuable insight into how software performs in the hands of professionals. Together, these inputs power the G2 Score, a standardized way to compare tools within every category. ## Which Discrete ERP Software Is Best for Your Use Case? - **Leader:** [Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-microsoft-dynamics-365-business-central/reviews) - **Highest Performer:** [Syspro](https://www.g2.com/products/syspro/reviews) - **Easiest to Use:** [Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-microsoft-dynamics-365-business-central/reviews) - **Top Trending:** [Odoo ERP](https://www.g2.com/products/odoo-odoo-erp/reviews) - **Best Free Software:** [Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-microsoft-dynamics-365-business-central/reviews) --- **Sponsored** ### SAP Cloud ERP (SAP S/4HANA Cloud) SAP Cloud ERP (SAP S/4HANA Cloud) is a modular ERP designed for every business need, powered by AI and analytics. SAP Cloud ERP enables users to run mission-critical operations in real time from anywhere, introduce new business models in any industry, and expand globally. SAP Cloud ERP is a SaaS product and can also be deployed in a hybrid landscape for quicker time to value.​ SAP Cloud ERP is the foundational component of the SAP Business Suite, a seamlessly integrated system of applications, data, and AI that connects and optimizes every part of your business, enabling smarter decisions, real-time insights, and intelligent automation.​ [Visit website](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bad_program%5D=paid_promo&secure%5Bad_slot%5D=category_product_list&secure%5Bcategory_id%5D=1553&secure%5Bmedium%5D=sponsored&secure%5Bprioritized%5D=false&secure%5Bproduct_id%5D=19175&secure%5Bresource_id%5D=1553&secure%5Bresource_type%5D=Category&secure%5Bsource_type%5D=category_page&secure%5Bsource_url%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.g2.com%2Fcategories%2Fdiscrete-erp&secure%5Btoken%5D=a13912c1bfae9daa4d676ed7042d4d061800f64125eccf5b33adf15b2965e81e&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sap.com%2Fproducts%2Ferp%2Fs4hana.html&secure%5Burl_type%5D=paid_promos) --- ## What Is Discrete ERP Software? [ERP Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/erp) ## What Software Categories Are Similar to Discrete ERP Software? - [Accounting Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/accounting) - [ERP Systems](https://www.g2.com/categories/erp-systems) - [Mixed Mode ERP Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/mixed-mode-erp) --- ## How Do You Choose the Right Discrete ERP Software? ### What You Should Know About Discrete ERP Software ### What is Discrete ERP Software? Discrete ERP refers to ERP software specifically designed for manufacturing companies that deliver distinct (i.e., discrete) products in large quantities. This means that each finished product can be manufactured and sold separately from any other product. A few examples of such products are computers and electronics, fashion and apparel items, or furniture and appliances. Very complex products such as heavy machinery and airplanes can also be considered discrete, but they are not mass manufactured and require a lot of engineering and customization. Manufacturing from these industries would benefit more from using [ETO ERP software](https://www.g2.com/categories/eto-erp), which is designed for advanced manufacturing. Key Benefits of Discrete ERP Software - Provides a single source of truth for manufacturing information - Improves business processes and aligns internal and external stakeholders to deliver products on time and at the highest quality - Helps define and manage product costing and profit margins, as well as monitor the profitability and financial success of the company ### Why Use Discrete ERP Software? Manufacturers can use discrete ERP to define, plan, and monitor operations across all departments in the company. The most critical challenges that can be addressed using this type of software are as follows: **Cost reduction and improved profitability —** These are vital to any company but particularly crucial for manufacturers who invest heavily in production equipment, raw materials, personnel, and utilities (such as electricity and water). Discrete ERP helps manufacturing companies track all these costs and allocate them to the various products delivered by the company to calculate their total cost. Since the profit made by the company is the difference between the price and the total cost of their products, manufacturers need to lower costs without compromising on quality. **Improved productivity —** Productivity can be improved through increased collaboration and better visibility into manufacturing operations. Since discrete ERP provides a single database and one system to manage most processes and operations, employees from multiple departments can use their time more efficiently and perform better. Improved collaboration with external parties such as suppliers and contractors can also help employees be more productive. **Quality control —** Quality can have a significant impact on the customer experience and the profitability of the company. Also, a lack of compliance with safety and health laws and regulations can disrupt the activity of the manufacturer and cause accidents that may damage equipment and put the lives of the employees at risk. ### Who Uses Discrete ERP Software? Most departments of a manufacturing company can benefit from using discrete ERP, however, the ones that benefit most from using this type of software are: **Production —** Planning, scheduling, and monitoring manufacturing operations are critical for manufacturers. Companies need to understand what products need to be manufactured, in what quantities, and when they should be ready to be shipped to customers. **Accounting —** Different types of costs are allocated to various activities, and discrete ERP software keeps a record of all financial transactions between the company and its customers, suppliers, and employees. Accountants also use discrete ERP to track payments from customers and to suppliers, for cash and treasury management, month and year close, and financial statements. **Logistics —** Logistics departments use discrete ERP to plan deliveries to customers and manage the inventory of raw materials and finished products. Logistics managers need to ensure that there is enough inventory to fulfill demand at any time and to [reduce waste](https://www.g2.com/categories/discrete-erp/f/waste) that can be caused by inventory control errors. ### Kinds of Discrete ERP Software **All in one —** Discrete ERP can deliver all the features mentioned above in one single solution or package. While these packages can be customized by adding additional modules, they can be rigid and difficult to implement and maintain. **Best of breed —** Some discrete ERP software focuses on manufacturing features and essential back-office functionality for manufacturers such as accounting and procurement. Additional features for sales and marketing or HR and [workforce management](https://www.g2.com/categories/discrete-erp/f/workforce-management) are delivered through integration with other software solutions. **Industry-specific —** Other discrete ERP software focuses on one or a few manufacturing sectors. A few examples are ERP for fashion and apparel and ERP for lumber and construction materials. Such specialized solutions are used mostly by manufacturers serving those industries and aren't the optimal choice for others. ### Discrete ERP Software Features **Accounting —** Accounting is the backbone of any discrete ERP system because any financial transaction made by the company needs to be tracked and documented for compliance purposes and to monitor profitability. Accounting features vary from one system to another but usually include a general ledger and chart of accounts, accounts receivable, accounts payable, journal entries, financial period close, and financial reporting. Some discrete ERP products also include budgeting and forecasting or features to manage fixed asset depreciation. **Production management —** Production management functions are at the core of every discrete ERP system. These features can be more or less robust but should always be included in any discrete ERP solution. To plan, manage, and monitor production, discrete ERP systems provide features such as material requirements planning (MRP), rough-cut capacity planning (RCCP), master production scheduling (MPS), or shop floor control. **Inventory and warehouse management —** Manufacturers need to manage the storage of raw materials, components, and finished products. For companies with multiple locations, this type of software helps track inventory movements between warehouses. Most discrete ERP systems include features for picking and shipping, while transportation management is usually delivered through integration with other software products. **Procurement —** Procurement is essential for manufacturers because it helps them buy the raw materials and components needed for production at the lowest costs and highest quality. It is also necessary to synchronize procurement with production schedules to avoid delaying production because parts are not available. To create and maintain good relationships with reliable suppliers, procurement professionals can use discrete ERP to track supplier performance and choose the best provider for various types of items. **Quality management —** This defines what needs to be tracked and monitored to comply with quality standards and regulations. Quality plans include tasks and instructions on how to test products during production, what to do in case of nonconformity, and how to choose either to repair [defective products](https://www.g2.com/categories/discrete-erp/f/defects) or scrap them. #### Additional Discrete ERP Features **CRM and sales —** These features are included in most discrete ERP products, but their robustness can vary a lot from one system to another. To provide better features for sales and marketing, ERP vendors tend to integrate with CRM software that is delivered separately by the same vendor or by partners. **HR and workforce management —** Both HR and workforce management are critical for manufacturers to track the utilization of their workforce, which impacts their labor costs and the total costs of their products. Most discrete ERP systems offer basic features to allocate personnel to various activities, time tracking, and payroll. These features are not sufficient for manufacturers with thousands of employees spread across multiple locations, which is why all discrete ERP products offer integration with HR suites. **Supply chain management —** This provides advanced features for logistics that are not usually included in discrete ERP systems. One example is transportation and fleet management, which allows manufacturers to manage their own fleet of trucks and their utilization. Other features of discrete ERP software: [Payment Batches](https://www.g2.com/categories/discrete-erp/f/payment-batches), [Payment Scheduling](https://www.g2.com/categories/discrete-erp/f/payments-scheduling), [Rework Capabilities](https://www.g2.com/categories/discrete-erp/f/rework), and [WIP Capabilities](https://www.g2.com/categories/discrete-erp/f/wip). ### Trends Related to Discrete ERP Software **Two-tier implementation —** This refers to the strategy to use two ERP systems to access the complementary benefits provided by each system. For instance, a manufacturer may want to use one ERP system to manage manufacturing, procurement, and inventory, and another ERP software for accounting. This usually happens when the ERP system does not include advanced accounting functions, and the accounting solution only provides basic features for manufacturing. ### Potential Issues with Discrete ERP Software **Rigidity —** ERP system rigidity has been a challenge for a long time. Modern technology like the cloud helped vendors simplify implementation and maintenance, but ERP systems are still complex due to the nature of the operations they manage. **Lack of advanced features —** This may be an issue for mid-market companies and enterprise ERP users. While most discrete ERP systems offer similar functionality, the depth of the features provided can make a big difference for medium to large companies. **Need for industry-specific features —** Discrete ERP products have been adapted (and sometimes built from scratch) for light manufacturing sectors such as fashion and apparel. For more complex industries like chemicals and food and beverage, it is preferable that manufacturers use process ERP solutions. **Cost —** Discrete ERP solutions can be expensive, and this has been one of the most critical challenges faced by ERP buyers. While this has been addressed partially by the use of the cloud delivery model, discrete ERP can still be expensive. ### Software and Services Related to Discrete ERP Software [**CAD & PLM software**](https://www.g2.com/categories/cad-plm) **—** CAD and PLM software are used by manufacturers to design products and components. Most discrete ERP systems include limited features for product design, which is why CAD and PLM are essential. Manufacturers that focus on less complex products often use only CAD solutions for design, while PLM is required mostly for complicated products. [**Supply chain & logistics software**](https://www.g2.com/categories/supply-chain-logistics) **—** Supply chain and logistics software extends the logistics and inventory features included in discrete ERP solutions. For instance, discrete ERP systems include robust features for inventory management but not always functionality for warehouse management. While smaller manufacturers may not require warehouse management modules, these types of features are critical for larger companies that store raw materials and finished goods in multiple locations. [**Business intelligence software**](https://www.g2.com/categories/business-intelligence) **—** Business intelligence software complements the reporting and analytics functionality delivered out of the box by discrete ERP solutions. While some vendors offer their own business intelligence software, others (especially smaller vendors) partner with business intelligence providers. Business intelligence software is usually sold separately from the discrete ERP system but can also be bundled together with ERP. [**CRM and related software**](https://www.g2.com/categories/crm-related) **—** CRM and related software provides advanced features to manage relationships with customers, which aren't always included in discrete ERP solutions. These types of software are used by manufacturers to manage the entire customer lifecycle, from lead capture and management to sales and customer service. --- ## What Are the Most Common Questions About Discrete ERP Software? ### How do Discrete ERP solutions differ in terms of customization capabilities? Discrete ERP solutions vary significantly in customization capabilities. For instance, SAP S/4HANA offers extensive customization options, allowing users to tailor workflows and reports extensively, while Oracle NetSuite provides a flexible platform with customizable dashboards and workflows, but may require more technical expertise for deeper customizations. Microsoft Dynamics 365 stands out with its user-friendly customization tools, enabling non-technical users to modify applications easily. In contrast, Infor CloudSuite is noted for its industry-specific configurations, which can limit broader customization but enhance relevance for specific sectors. ### How do Discrete ERP systems handle compliance and regulatory requirements? Discrete ERP systems typically incorporate compliance and regulatory features by offering modules that automate reporting, track changes in regulations, and ensure data integrity. Users frequently highlight the importance of audit trails and documentation capabilities, which are essential for meeting industry standards. For instance, products like SAP S/4HANA, Oracle NetSuite, and Microsoft Dynamics 365 are noted for their robust compliance management tools, enabling organizations to adapt to regulatory changes efficiently. Additionally, user reviews emphasize the ease of integration with compliance frameworks, enhancing overall operational transparency. ### How does pricing typically vary among Discrete ERP solutions? Pricing for Discrete ERP solutions typically varies based on features, deployment options, and company size. For instance, products like SAP Business One and Oracle NetSuite often have higher starting prices, reflecting their extensive capabilities and scalability, while solutions like Odoo and Fishbowl offer more budget-friendly options with essential features. Monthly subscription costs can range from $50 to over $1,000 per user, depending on the complexity and customization required. Additionally, many vendors provide tiered pricing models, which can further influence overall costs. ### How long does it usually take to implement a Discrete ERP solution? The implementation time for a Discrete ERP solution typically ranges from 3 to 12 months, depending on factors such as company size, complexity of processes, and the specific software chosen. For instance, products like SAP S/4HANA and Oracle NetSuite often report longer implementation periods due to their extensive features, while solutions like Odoo and Microsoft Dynamics 365 may offer quicker setups. User reviews indicate that successful implementations often require thorough planning and dedicated resources to meet these timelines. ### How scalable are Discrete ERP systems for growing businesses? Discrete ERP systems are generally scalable for growing businesses, with many users highlighting their ability to handle increased transaction volumes and user counts. For instance, products like NetSuite and SAP Business One are noted for their robust scalability features, allowing businesses to expand operations without significant system overhauls. Users report that these systems can adapt to changing business needs, with flexible modules and cloud capabilities that support growth. Additionally, solutions such as Microsoft Dynamics 365 and Infor CloudSuite are praised for their scalability, enabling seamless integration of new functionalities as businesses evolve. ### What are common integration options with Discrete ERP systems? Common integration options with Discrete ERP systems include connections with CRM software, supply chain management tools, and financial systems. Users frequently highlight integrations with platforms like Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics, and various e-commerce solutions. Additionally, many systems support API integrations, allowing for custom connections to other business applications. Integration capabilities are often a key factor in user satisfaction, with many reviews emphasizing the importance of seamless data flow between these systems to enhance operational efficiency. ### What are the key features to look for in a Discrete ERP system? Key features to look for in a Discrete ERP system include robust inventory management, production planning, and scheduling capabilities, as well as strong financial management tools. User reviews highlight the importance of integration with existing systems and ease of use. Additionally, customizable reporting and analytics features are crucial for data-driven decision-making. Scalability and support for multiple locations or plants are also frequently mentioned as essential for growing businesses. ### What are the most common use cases for Discrete ERP software? Common use cases for Discrete ERP software include managing manufacturing processes, tracking inventory levels, optimizing supply chain operations, and facilitating financial management. Users frequently highlight its effectiveness in enhancing production scheduling, improving order management, and providing real-time visibility into operations. Additionally, Discrete ERP systems are often utilized for compliance management and quality control, ensuring that products meet industry standards. Popular products in this category include NetSuite ERP, SAP Business One, and Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central. ### What are the typical training requirements for users of Discrete ERP systems? Typical training requirements for users of Discrete ERP systems vary by product but generally include initial onboarding sessions, ongoing training modules, and user documentation. For instance, products like SAP ERP and Oracle NetSuite often require comprehensive training due to their complexity, with users reporting a need for 1-3 weeks of training for effective utilization. Other systems, such as Microsoft Dynamics 365, may offer more intuitive interfaces, resulting in shorter training periods, typically around 1 week. Overall, organizations should anticipate a blend of formal training and self-directed learning to maximize user proficiency. ### What are the typical user experiences reported with Discrete ERP software? Users typically report that Discrete ERP software enhances operational efficiency and streamlines processes. Common experiences include improved inventory management and better production planning, with many noting significant time savings. However, some users express challenges with the complexity of implementation and the learning curve associated with the software. Products like NetSuite ERP, SAP Business One, and Microsoft Dynamics 365 are frequently mentioned, with ratings reflecting a mix of satisfaction and areas for improvement, particularly in customer support and customization options. ### What feedback do users commonly provide about the ROI of Discrete ERP solutions? Users commonly report that Discrete ERP solutions significantly enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs, leading to a positive ROI. Many highlight improvements in inventory management and production scheduling, which contribute to better resource allocation and reduced waste. Specific products like SAP S/4HANA, Oracle NetSuite, and Microsoft Dynamics 365 are frequently noted for their robust analytics capabilities, enabling users to track performance metrics effectively. Overall, users emphasize that the initial investment is often recouped through increased productivity and streamlined processes. ### What support options are generally available for Discrete ERP users? Discrete ERP users typically have access to a variety of support options, including 24/7 customer support, online knowledge bases, community forums, and dedicated account managers. Many users report that products like SAP S/4HANA and Oracle NetSuite offer extensive documentation and training resources, while others like Microsoft Dynamics 365 provide personalized support through implementation partners. Additionally, user reviews highlight the importance of responsive technical support and regular software updates as key factors in user satisfaction.