Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are essential business tools. ERPs empower enterprises to manage their resources more efficiently, enhance productivity, and gain a competitive edge in their industries. However, one of the major obstacles faced by companies today is the transition from outdated on-premise ERP systems to modern Software as a Service (SaaS) and cloud solutions. And with so many ERP vendors on the market, choosing the right one can be a daunting task for decision-makers.
Whether you’re a business leader, software consultant, industry expert, or aspiring entrepreneur, use our list of top 5 ERP vendors in 2023 to guide your digital transformation. Download our list of top 16 ERP systems at the end of this article.
Top 5 ERP vendors and products to look out for in 2023
- Oracle
- Microsoft
- SAP
- Infor
- Sage
1. Oracle
Oracle is a world leader in SaaS and the world’s most popular database management system (DBMS) as of February 2023. It offers not one but two powerful ERP solutions.
Oracle NetSuite
Oracle NetSuite is a cloud-based platform targeted primarily towards small to mid-market and growing enterprises. Oracle’s ERP offers operational capabilities suited to manufacturing and distribution companies in search of a modular and customizable system. Oracle also developed an additional product to compliment NetSuite called, SuiteSuccess, which aims to increase the time to value of the NetSuite implementation. SuiteSuccess includes diverse dashboards to monitor KPIs, manage workflows, and generate reports.
Training and adoption ✏️
When it comes to training and user adoption, Oracle’s Learning Cloud Support Explorer Pass provides free complimentary access to a wide range of introductory learning content.
Limitations 👎
Multiple NetSuite online reviews highlight limitations in customer support. Firstly, the standard package is limited to 10 hours of online support exclusively on weekdays, while premium customers benefit from 24/7 round-the-clock assistance. Secondly, the support provided has been criticized for its complexity. Considering NetSuite’s technical nature, relying solely on free self-help resources without sufficient support can present significant hurdles for end-users.
Customers ✅
e.l.f. Cosmetics, Ceridian, ZenDesk, Mazars
Oracle Fusion Cloud
Oracle was crowned top ERP vendor in 2022, in the latest Magic Quadrant by Gartner, and Oracle Fusion Cloud ERP won leading product-centric ERP solution. It stands as Oracle’s most extensive offering, providing software solutions for all departments, specifically catering to mid-sized to large-scale companies with a product-centric focus. While Fusion Cloud offers a highly advanced and comprehensive ERP system, it is flexible in terms of integrations and customization compared to NetSuite.
Training and adoption ✏️
Similar to NetSuite, Oracle Fusion Cloud provides a diverse selection of free training materials. However, for more comprehensive training and the opportunity to become Oracle certified, a paid Cloud learning subscription is required. Reviews also mention a steep learning curve, that is considered a drawback.
Limitations 👎
Oracle Fusion Cloud stands out as a comprehensive and extensive ERP solution. Being one of the largest ERPs available, the implementation process is more complex and challenging. If your company doesn’t require a universal tool, be prepared for the implementation of certain tools that will go unused.
Customers ✅
Zoom, FedEx, Deutsche Bank, Oracle RedBull Racing
2. Microsoft Corporation
Microsoft Corporation is world-famous for its software and cloud computing solutions. Its best product, Microsoft Office, is a business and household name around the world, dominating almost half of the office productivity software market. Its most infamous acquisitions include LinkedIn (2016), GitHub (2018), Skype (2011), and Minecraft (2016).
Dynamics 365
Dynamics 365 ERP is a cloud-based and on-premises suite. It is a comprehensive collection of customizable SaaS services and applications. Designed specifically for small to mid-sized companies, it serves as both a CRM, ERP and productivity suite. The ERP is an all-in-one solution to connect finance, sales, services, and operations teams within a single easy-to-use application. Perhaps its pièce de résistance, Dynamics 365 ERP business processes are able to integrate with numerous other Microsoft solutions.
Training and adoption ✏️
Dynamics 365 offers a wide range of training resources, such as e-learning modules, instructional videos, certifications, and training paths (up to level 300), available at no extra cost. Using gamification, training includes points and levels, incentivizing users to complete their training goals. Since March 2023, Dynamics 365 has also introduced certifications tailored to specific job roles.
Limitations 👎
Microsoft Dynamics 365 is widely acknowledged as a comprehensive ERP system, but often faces criticism in online reviews for its outdated, unintuitive, and non-user-friendly interface. Additionally, some users have raised concerns about the limited storage capacity and the additional cost of storage, which adds to the already expensive license and customizations.
Customers ✅
CocaCola, HP, Chevron, Sandvik, L’Oreal
3. SAP
SAP customers generate 87% of total global commerce. The company is a leading provider of enterprise application software, specializing in areas such as ERP, supply chain management, and procurement. Offering a wide range of solutions, SAP caters to 26 different industries and 12 lines of business, with options available on both cloud, on-premise, and hybrid platforms.
SAP S/4HANA
SAP S/4HANA is a cloud-based ERP software equipped with pre-built modules, and is well-suited to both large and scaling corporations. It targets large enterprises in industries such as procurement, manufacturing, and supply chain management. Notably, 85 out of the top 100 largest companies worldwide implement SAP S/4HANA as their ERP solution. SAP designed S/4HANA to bring ERPs into the future, incorporating advanced technologies including machine learning, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT).
Training and adoption ✏️
Training programs include various formats, including traditional classroom sessions, virtual events, and self-paced learning options. The Blended Learning Academy, offers modular training and a 14-day free trial. However, further training and certifications require an additional cost, typically in the form of an annual subscription fee.
Limitations 👎
SAP S/4HANA is a complex product that incurs high costs to implement and run. This makes it unsuitable for organizations with simple needs and a lack of resources. The implementation process is also complex and time-consuming. This means companies can expect some degree of disruption. Although S/4HAHA is the future of ERPs, it is also relatively new and unknown as its roadmap continues to evolve. Reviews also cite the need for expert level training to use it effectively.
Customers ✅
Accenture, Unitpart, HP, Pfizer
4. Infor
Infor, a renowned legacy vendor, successfully made the transition to cloud and is now among the leading ERP providers worldwide. In 2020, Koch Industries, a former client, is believed to have acquired Infor for approximately $13 billion.
Infor M3
Infor M3 is a cloud-based ERP system for global manufacturing and distribution with features to improve user productivity. Its key capabilities include global financial visibility, powerful analytics and integration with any data system. Infor M3 targets industries including chemical, distribution, equipment, fashion, food and beverage, and industrial.
Training and adoption ✏️
Infor provides Campus Plus Membership, a comprehensive annual subscription that enables companies to train their entire organization. This membership includes new micro-learning training segments to enhance the learning experience. Starting from May 2023, Infor has introduced evolutions to the LMS within Infor University (Infor U), their cloud-based learning platform.
Limitations 👎
Online reviews express concerns about unfriendly user experience, difficulty training users and a lack of good developer documentation, especially when it comes to setting up your own development environment.
Customers ✅
Triumph, Burton, Flatiron, Belmond
5. Sage
In January 2023 The Sage Group was bought by Aperture. Sage has a strong commitment to small and medium enterprises worldwide and is a more affordable alternative to other ERP vendors. It is a market leader for integrated tools including accounting, payroll and payment systems and has in recent years focused on cloud based software offerings.
Sage X3
Sage X3 is part of the modern generation of ERP systems, having embraced cloud technology in July 2015. This ERP solution is versatile, offering on-premise, Software as a Service (SaaS), or cloud deployment options, allowing companies to utilize their own data centers or rely on Sage’s hosting services. The web-based architecture of Sage X3 enables real-time updates, ensuring the system stays up-to-date at all times.
Training and adoption ✏️
Sage University provides three Sage X3 Learning Memberships designed for learners: Basic membership, Plus membership, and Premiere membership. Each membership grants access to the core e-learning course. However, it’s important to note that these memberships do not include free learning resources.
Limitations 👎
Online reviews have highlighted a lack of customer support because of long follow-up times, and an absence of an official Sage forum to resolve issues independently. Many reviews also cited difficulties during the configuration stage.
Customers ✅
RIVR Media, Tree Tops Caravan Park, BKPlus, Sierra at Tahoe
