The 12 Best ERPs to Optimise Your Management

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are crucial to streamline operations, centralise data, and improve efficiency. An ERP platform integrates various business functions into one cohesive system, offering a unified view of operations. This article compares the 12 best ERP systems to help your organisation make an informed decision that aligns with its strategic objectives.

What Is an ERP System?

An ERP system is a software solution that integrates and manages core business processes in real time. It brings together essential functions like accounting, procurement, project management, risk management, compliance, and supply chain operations onto a single platform.

The main benefit of an ERP is providing a single source of truth for an entire organisation. This leads to better data-driven decisions and greater operational efficiency. ERP software is available in several forms to meet different business needs, including on-premise, cloud-based, and hybrid models [8].

Top 12 ERP Systems: A Quick Comparison

The 12 Best ERP Software Systems in Detail

1. Oracle NetSuite ERP

Oracle NetSuite ERP is a comprehensive, cloud-based solution that combines various business functions into a single platform. It is designed to scale with businesses as they grow, from startups to large enterprises.

Best For: Small to mid-sized businesses (SMBs) and large enterprises looking for an all-in-one cloud solution.

Key Features:

• Financial management and accounting
• Inventory and order management
• CRM
• E-commerce capabilities

NetSuite is often listed as a top choice due to its comprehensive features that cover nearly every aspect of business operations [2].

2. Microsoft Dynamics 365

Microsoft Dynamics 365 merges ERP and CRM capabilities into a suite of intelligent business applications. Its modular design allows businesses to start with what they need and add more applications as their requirements change.

Best For: Businesses of all sizes that value integration with other Microsoft products and need high adaptability.

Key Features:

• AI-driven insights
• Advanced reporting and analytics
• Modules for finance, sales, HR, and supply chain

The platform is recognised for its role-based permissions and mobile accessibility, which allows team members to access important data securely from any location [1].

3. SAP S/4HANA

SAP S/4HANA is a powerful ERP system designed for large enterprises. It operates on the advanced in-memory SAP HANA database, which enables real-time data processing and analytics.

Best For: Large corporations that require real-time data processing and advanced analytics.

Key Features:

• Real-time analytics and reporting
• Embedded machine learning and AI
• Simplified data model for increased performance

It is regarded as a top-tier system for enterprises that need a robust, feature-rich solution to manage complex processes [5].

4. Odoo

Odoo is a unique, open-source ERP system that provides a suite of integrated business management applications. Its modular design offers excellent flexibility and scalability.

Plus, Odoo integrates with a number of business applications, including the business phone system, Ringover. When Odoo is integrated with Ringover’s VoIP software, you’ll have access to tools like screen pop and click-to-call within the Odoo app. Additionally, Ringover offers a plethora of features that help forge close relationships with prospects and clients. With unlimited calling, omnichannel contact centre software, and AI-powered summaries and transcriptions, you’ll easily streamline your operations.

Best For: SMBs and startups that need a highly customisable and scalable solution without high initial costs.

Key Features:

• Modular approach (pay only for the apps you need)
• Covers CRM, e-commerce, accounting, inventory, project management, and more
• Active community and extensive customisation options

Odoo is popular for its ability to connect various departments and streamline workflows across the entire business [4].

5. Acumatica Cloud ERP

Acumatica is a versatile cloud ERP offering flexible licensing based on the resources used, not the number of users. This makes it a cost-effective option for growing companies.

Best For: Growing small and mid-market companies, especially in distribution, manufacturing, and service industries.

Key Features:

• Unique pricing model that does not charge per user
• Strong mobile capabilities
• Industry-specific editions

Acumatica is frequently included in lists of top ERPs for small businesses due to its scalable and adaptable architecture [3].

6. Sage Intacct

Sage Intacct is a cloud financial management platform focused on providing deep accounting capabilities. It is designed to automate complex financial processes and deliver real-time visibility.

Best For: Businesses that need a powerful, finance-first ERP solution to automate complex financial processes.

Key Features:

• Core financials (general ledger, accounts payable/receivable)
• Advanced reporting and dashboards
• Strong compliance and internal controls

7. Infor CloudSuite

Infor CloudSuite provides industry-specific ERP solutions built on the Amazon Web Services (AWS) infrastructure. This focus ensures that businesses get functionality tailored to their specific sector needs.

Best For: Manufacturing, distribution, and service industries that need specialised functionality out-of-the-box.

Key Features:

• Deep, industry-specific modules
• Modern, user-friendly interface
• Strong analytics and business intelligence tools

8. SYSPRO

SYSPRO is an ERP solution created specifically for the manufacturing and distribution sectors. It offers tools to help businesses manage and simplify complex supply chains and production processes.

Best For: Mid-sized manufacturers and distributors looking to manage and simplify their complex operations.

Key Features:

• Robust inventory management and control
• Supply chain optimisation
• Manufacturing operations management

9. Epicor Kinetic

Epicor Kinetic is a cloud ERP platform built with manufacturers in mind. It provides an end-to-end solution designed to manage production, supply chains, and customer relationships. Consider integrating it with a transportation and logistics phone system to improve your productivity even more.

Best For: Mid-sized businesses in manufacturing, distribution, and retail.

Key Features:

• Production control and management
• Advanced planning and scheduling
• Integrated CRM and supply chain management

10. ERPNext

ERPNext is a free and open-source ERP solution that is a great alternative to paid systems for small businesses. It is comprehensive enough to run an entire business.

Best For: Small businesses, startups, and non-profits looking for a cost-effective, comprehensive ERP.

Key Features:

• Covers accounting, HR, payroll, manufacturing, and sales
• Highly customisable
• No licensing fees

11. Katana

Katana is a manufacturing ERP built for modern, direct-to-consumer brands. It helps businesses manage inventory, production, and orders in real time.

Best For: Small to medium-sized manufacturers, especially those selling on e-commerce platforms like Shopify.

Key Features:

• Real-time inventory and manufacturing tracking
• Seamless integration with e-commerce and accounting softwareSimple and intuitive user interface

12. Workday

Workday is a leading cloud-based ERP specialising in Human Capital Management (HCM) and financial management. It provides a single system for finance, HR, and planning.

Best For: Mid-to-large enterprises focused on managing their workforce and financials in a single system.

Key Features:

• Comprehensive human resources management to support worker productivity
• Financial planning and analysis
• User-friendly interface accessible on any device

How to Choose the Right ERP System for Your Business

Selecting the right ERP requires careful evaluation of your business's unique needs.

• Assess Your Needs: Identify your company's pain points, goals, and specific departmental requirements.
• Compare Features: Ensure the ERP provides the necessary modules for your operations (e.g., finance, inventory, HR).
• Evaluate Deployment Options: Decide between cloud, on-premise, or a hybrid model based on your IT resources, security needs, and budget.
• Consider TCO: Look beyond the initial license fee to the total cost of ownership, which includes implementation, customisation, and support [6].
• Check Integration Capabilities: The system must integrate seamlessly with your existing tools. Use side-by-side product comparisons to evaluate how different systems connect with third-party software [7].

Enhance Your ERP with an Integrated Communication Platform

An ERP is powerful on its own, but integrating it with a communications platform can unlock even greater efficiency. Connecting an ERP with a VoIP phone like Ringover streamlines workflows, eliminates data silos, and improves customer interactions. Benefits include automated call logging, call recording, instant access to customer data during calls, and improved team productivity.

Example: The Ringover and Odoo Integration

Odoo is a popular ERP that can be enhanced with a communication integration. Integrating Odoo with Ringover allows users to make and receive calls directly within Odoo. Key features include automatic call logging, contact synchronisation, and click-to-call functionality, all of which boost productivity.

Unlocking Further Potential with a Cloud Contact Centre

A cloud contact centre solution complements an ERP by centralising all communication channels (voice, SMS, social media). This unified view provides richer customer data within the ERP and enables advanced features like intelligent call routing and real-time performance analytics.

Conclusion

Choosing the right enterprise resource planning system is a critical decision that depends on a company's size, industry, and specific needs. The 12 systems reviewed offer a range of solutions for different business types.

The true power of an ERP is realised when it is integrated into a company's entire tech stack. We encourage you to explore how to get to know Ringover's cloud communication platform to maximise the ROI of your ERP investment. To see the Ringover difference for yourself, start your free trial today!

Enterprise Resource Planning FAQ

What is meant by enterprise resource planning?

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) is software that helps a business manage and connect its core operations, like finance, purchasing, inventory, projects, HR, and manufacturing, in one integrated system. The goal is to keep data consistent across departments and run processes more efficiently.

What are the 5 components of ERP?

ERP suites vary, but five common core components are:

• Finance & accounting (general ledger, AP/AR, budgeting, reporting)
• Procurement & purchasing (vendor management, purchase orders, approvals)
• Inventory & supply chain (stock, warehousing, logistics, demand planning)
• Manufacturing or operations (production planning, MRP, quality, maintenance, where relevant)
• Human resources (HR) (payroll, time tracking, onboarding, workforce management)

What is an ERP and example?

An ERP is a centralised platform that manages multiple business functions in one place, so data flows from one team to another without manual handoffs.

Examples of ERP platforms include SAP S/4HANA, Oracle ERP Cloud, Microsoft Dynamics 365, NetSuite, and Odoo.

What is ERP vs CRM?

ERP focuses on back-office operations: finance, procurement, inventory, production, HR, and internal workflows.

CRM (Customer Relationship Management) focuses on customer-facing activities: leads, sales pipelines, customer interactions, marketing, and support.

Many businesses use both CRM to manage growth and relationships, and ERP to run the business operations that fulfil what’s sold.

What is the main purpose of ERP?

The main purpose of ERP is to integrate core business processes and data so teams work from a single source of truth. This typically improves efficiency, reduces errors and duplicate data entry, strengthens reporting, and makes it easier to scale operations.

Citations

• [1]https://erpsoftwareblog.com/2024/03/best-erp-systems-of-2024-a-comprehensive-review
• [2]https://www.geeksforgeeks.org
• [3]https://www.dynamicssquare.ca/blog/erp-system-for-small-business
• [4]https://zapier.com/blog/best-erp-software
• [5]https://www.top10erp.org/blog/top-erp-systems
• [6]https://www.erpfocus.com/erp-product-comparison.html
• [7]https://www.top10erp.org/erp-software-comparison/by-product
• [8]https://erpdetail.com/erp-software-comparison

Published on January 15, 2026.