The Top 15 Best Production Scheduling Software Solutions for 2024
Manufacturing production scheduling software is a tool designed to optimize and manage the production processes in manufacturing and other production-oriented industries. It helps in planning, scheduling, and controlling production activities to ensure efficient use of resources, timely delivery of products, and adherence to production schedules.
There are standalone production planning and scheduling software applications that fill this role for SMB manufacturing businesses, but the best production scheduling software is integrated within an all-in-one manufacturing ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) software platform.
Integrating manufacturing production scheduling software as part of an ERP solution offers significant benefits over standalone systems, providing a unified platform that enhances efficiency and accuracy. An integrated ERP solution ensures seamless data flow across all business functions, from inventory and procurement to sales and finance, enabling real-time updates and comprehensive visibility into operations.
This holistic approach to production planning software improves coordination and decision-making, and the scalability of an ERP system supports business growth by adjusting to increased production volumes and more complex processes, ensuring that the system grows with your business. This integration also reduces data silos and eliminates duplicate manual data entry across separate spreadsheets and accounting software, lowering the risk of errors and improving overall productivity.
Standalone production planning and scheduling software software, while specialized, often faces integration challenges and lacks the broader functionality needed to manage interconnected business processes efficiently.
Benefits for Business Growth
Implementing top-ranked production scheduling software provides numerous benefits that can help your business grow:
- Increased Efficiency: Optimizes production schedules, reducing downtime and improving throughput.
- Cost Savings: Minimizes production costs by ensuring efficient use of resources and reducing waste.
- Improved Product Quality: Ensures consistent product quality through integrated quality management features.
- Better Resource Utilization: Optimizes the use of labor, machinery, and materials, preventing bottlenecks and overuse.
- Enhanced Visibility: Provides real-time visibility into production processes, enabling proactive management and quick response to issues.
- Scalability: Supports the management of increased production volumes and complexity as the business grows.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: Offers insights and analytics for better production planning and strategic decisions.
- Reduced Inventory Costs: Manages inventory more effectively, reducing excess stock and associated holding costs.
- Increased Accountability: Enhances transparency and accountability through detailed tracking and reporting.
- Flexibility: Allows for quick adjustments to production schedules in response to changes in demand or production issues.
The ultimate benefit of using production planning and scheduling software is having a competitive advantage with tools to manage production more effectively than competitors and enjoying a stronger market position. When it comes to finding the right production scheduling software solution for your business, here are some features to look for:
Advanced Planning and Scheduling (APS)
Real-Time Production Monitoring
Resource Management
Capacity Planning
Work Order Management
Inventory Management
Shop Floor Control
Quality Management
Integration with ERP and Other Systems
Gantt Charts and Visual Scheduling Tools
Analytics and Reporting
Mobile Access and Remote Monitoring
For a lot of growing manufacturing businesses, it’s not always easy to find the right production scheduling software solution. With so many choices out there, it can be hard to know which solution really fits the unique needs of your industry, your business, and your budget.
Don’t worry, there’s good news—finding the best production scheduling software for your business has never been easier. We’re here to help. Our software experts have compiled a comprehensive breakdown of The Top 15 Best Production Scheduling Software Solutions for 2024.
*Note: Our production scheduling software reviews are for informational purposes only. We encourage you to perform research and demo several production planning and scheduling software systems to achieve the most comprehensive comparison.
1. Striven
Striven is an all-in-one ERP business management software solution built with small to mid-market businesses in mind. Our sophisticated software combines contractor and subcontractor project management tools, CRM, sales performance metrics, lead tracking, collaboration tools, accounting, purchasing, HR and payroll, operations, inventory, task management tools, (and so much more) into a single, easy-to-use interface. Striven is an infinitely capable software solution that supports every type of employee within your company.
Highlights:
- Project, task, and time management w/ interactive calendar
- Detailed financial and productivity reports generated in seconds
- Fully integrated CRM
- Contractor and subcontractor management
- Self-service portals
- Scheduling & dispatch route planning capabilities
- Fully integrated accounting
- Complete HR functionality
- Production planning & scheduling
What Sets It Apart: Striven’s expert team of business analysts personally see to your success. From training and onboarding, technical support, and business-specific customizations, our US-based Striven Support Team is available 24/7. On top of that, Striven’s automation capabilities allow you to work more efficiently.
Pricing: Free trial and custom demo, packages begin at $35/user.
More info: Striven Earns Numerous Awards For Q4 2023
2. SAP S/4HANA
SAP S/4HANA is a comprehensive ERP system that excels as production planning and scheduling software by providing advanced planning, real-time analytics, and seamless integration with other business processes. Its sophisticated algorithms and detailed scheduling capabilities enable manufacturers to optimize resource utilization, reduce lead times, and enhance overall efficiency. Additionally, the system’s real-time data processing and predictive analytics help anticipate and mitigate production bottlenecks.
Highlights:
- Provides real-time insights and analytics to optimize production processes
- Sophisticated algorithms for detailed and accurate production scheduling
- Integrates with various business processes for a comprehensive approach
What Sets It Apart: SAP S/4HANA stands out for its seamless integration with other business functions, providing a holistic view and control over the entire manufacturing process.
Pricing: Contact for pricing
3. Oracle ERP Cloud
Oracle ERP Cloud is a robust ERP solution that incorporates manufacturing production scheduling software with its advanced planning tools and integrated business intelligence. It allows manufacturers to streamline operations, improve accuracy, and ensure timely delivery through its real-time visibility and automated scheduling features. The system’s cloud-based infrastructure supports scalability and flexibility, adapting to the changing needs of businesses.
Highlights:
- Includes robust tools for production planning and scheduling
- Offers real-time visibility into production and supply chain operations
- Automates scheduling to improve accuracy and efficiency
What Sets It Apart: Oracle ERP Cloud excels in providing a cloud-based infrastructure that supports scalability and flexibility, ideal for growing businesses.
Pricing: Contact for pricing
4. Microsoft Dynamics 365
Microsoft Dynamics 365 offers powerful production scheduling software capabilities within its comprehensive ERP suite, providing real-time insights and advanced planning tools. Its intuitive interface and seamless integration with other Microsoft products enhance collaboration and operational efficiency. The system’s flexibility allows businesses to customize workflows and optimize production processes according to their specific needs.
Highlights:
- User-friendly interface that enhances collaboration and ease of use
- Integrates production scheduling with other business processes
- Provides real-time insights and analytics for better decision-making
What Sets It Apart: Microsoft Dynamics 365’s tight integration with other Microsoft products enhances collaboration and operational efficiency, making it a strong choice for businesses already using Microsoft tools.
Pricing: Contact for pricing
5. Infor CloudSuite
Infor CloudSuite is an ERP system designed to include best production scheduling software features through its advanced planning and scheduling (APS) capabilities. It offers real-time visibility into production processes, enabling manufacturers to make informed decisions and improve resource allocation. The system’s industry-specific features and integration with IoT data enhance its ability to streamline operations and boost productivity.
Highlights:
- Advanced planning and scheduling software (APS)
- Provides real-time visibility into production processes
- Tailored features for various industries
What Sets It Apart: Infor CloudSuite’s industry-specific capabilities and IoT integration make it particularly strong for manufacturers looking to leverage advanced technology in their production processes.
Pricing: Contact for pricing
6. Epicor ERP
Epicor ERP provides integrated production scheduling software tools that help manufacturers streamline operations and improve efficiency. Its advanced planning features and real-time data analytics enable businesses to optimize resource utilization and reduce lead times. The system’s user-friendly interface and customizable workflows make it adaptable to various manufacturing environments.
Highlights:
- Detailed production scheduling features
- Real-time data analytics to optimize production
- Customizable to fit different manufacturing environments
What Sets It Apart: Epicor ERP’s user-friendly interface and customizable workflows make it adaptable and easy to use, especially for small to medium-sized manufacturers.
Pricing: Contact for pricing
7. IFS Applications
IFS Applications is a comprehensive ERP solution that includes robust planning and production scheduling software capabilities, allowing manufacturers to plan and manage complex production processes effectively. Its real-time data integration and advanced scheduling tools enhance operational efficiency and ensure timely delivery. The system’s flexibility and scalability make it suitable for businesses of all sizes and industries.
Highlights:
- Robust production scheduling capabilities
- Real-time visibility into production operations
- Flexible and scalable to support business growth
What Sets It Apart: IFS Applications is particularly strong in complex manufacturing environments due to its advanced scheduling capabilities.
Pricing: Contact for pricing
8. NetSuite ERP
NetSuite ERP offers best production scheduling software features that streamline manufacturing operations and improve overall efficiency. Its cloud-based platform provides real-time visibility and advanced planning tools, helping businesses optimize resource allocation and reduce production lead times. The system’s flexibility and ease of use make it a popular choice for manufacturers seeking a scalable ERP solution.
Highlights:
- Comprehensive scheduling integrated with ERP functionalities
- Cloud-based platform
- Scalable solution
What Sets It Apart: NetSuite ERP’s cloud-based platform and scalability make it a compelling choice for businesses seeking a flexible and accessible solution.
Pricing: Contact for pricing
9. Asprova
Asprova is a specialized production scheduling software known for its advanced algorithms and detailed scheduling capabilities. It helps manufacturers optimize production plans, improve resource utilization, and reduce lead times. The system’s powerful scheduling engine and real-time data processing enable businesses to adapt quickly to changing production demands.
Highlights:
- Sophisticated scheduling algorithms for optimized production
- Processes data in real-time for accurate scheduling
- Highly detailed and precise scheduling capabilities
What Sets It Apart: Asprova is known for its powerful scheduling engine, making it ideal for manufacturers needing precise and detailed production schedules.
Pricing: Contact for pricing
10. PlanetTogether
PlanetTogether is an advanced planning and scheduling (APS) software that integrates seamlessly with various ERP systems to enhance production scheduling. It provides real-time visibility, advanced optimization tools, and scenario planning features to help manufacturers streamline operations and improve efficiency. The system’s user-friendly interface and robust analytics make it a valuable tool for complex production environments.
Highlights:
- Offers real-time insights into production processes
- Advanced scenario planning features
- Integrates with various ERP systems
What Sets It Apart: PlanetTogether’s advanced scenario planning and seamless ERP integration make it a versatile and powerful tool for complex production environments.
Pricing: Contact for pricing
11. Plex DemandCaster
Plex DemandCaster is a cloud-based supply chain and manufacturing production planning software that includes powerful production scheduling features. It helps manufacturers optimize production schedules, manage inventory levels, and improve demand forecasting. The system’s real-time data integration and advanced analytics enhance decision-making and operational efficiency.
Highlights:
- Robust tools for production scheduling and demand forecasting
- Provides real-time visibility into supply chain and production
- Accessible from anywhere with real-time updates
What Sets It Apart: Plex DemandCaster’s cloud-based platform and comprehensive planning tools make it ideal for businesses looking to optimize their production scheduling.
Pricing: Contact for pricing
12. JobBOSS²
JobBOSS² is a comprehensive job shop management software that offers robust production scheduling capabilities. It enables manufacturers to plan, track, and manage production processes efficiently, ensuring timely delivery and optimal resource utilization. The system’s user-friendly interface and customizable features make it suitable for small to medium-sized manufacturing businesses.
Highlights:
- Comprehensive tools for job shop scheduling
- Real-time tracking of production processes
- Flexible and customizable to fit various job shop needs
What Sets It Apart: JobBOSS²’s focus on job shop management and its customizable features make it a great choice for small to medium-sized job shops.
Pricing: Contact for pricing
13. FastReactPlan
FastReactPlan is a production planning and scheduling software specifically designed for the apparel and textile industries. It offers advanced scheduling tools, real-time data integration, and detailed production tracking to help manufacturers streamline operations and improve efficiency. The system’s industry-specific features and user-friendly interface make it a valuable tool for managing complex production processes.
Highlights:
- Tailored for the apparel and textile industries
- Provides real-time visibility into production
- Detailed and precise scheduling capabilities
What Sets It Apart: FastReactPlan’s industry-specific features and detailed scheduling tools make it particularly strong for apparel and textile manufacturers.
Pricing: Contact for pricing
14. FrePPLe
FrePPLe is an open-source production planning and scheduling software that provides flexibility and customization for manufacturers. It offers advanced planning tools, real-time data integration, and scenario planning features to optimize production schedules and improve resource utilization. The system’s cost-effectiveness and adaptability make it an attractive option for businesses of all sizes.
Highlights:
- Open-source platform offering customization
- Robust production planning and scheduling features
- Supports advanced scenario planning and analysis
What Sets It Apart: FrePPLe’s open-source nature and flexibility make it an attractive option for businesses seeking a customizable and cost-effective solution.
Pricing: Contact for pricing
15. OPTIC
OPTIC is a production scheduling software focused on optimizing manufacturing operations and enhancing efficiency. It provides advanced scheduling tools, real-time data processing, and detailed analytics to help manufacturers streamline production processes and reduce lead times. The system’s powerful scheduling engine and user-friendly interface make it a valuable asset for improving operational performance.
Highlights:
- Powerful tools for optimizing production schedules
- Processes real-time data for accurate scheduling
- Easy-to-use interface for streamlined operations
What Sets It Apart: OPTIC’s powerful scheduling engine and user-friendly interface make it a valuable tool for manufacturers looking to improve operational performance and efficiency.
Pricing: Contact for pricing
Contact a Production Scheduling Software Expert
Our Small- to Mid-Market Business Analyst Team at Striven has decades of experience with production planning and scheduling software for manufacturing businesses.
Just like every car needs a trusted mechanic, every software needs a dedicated support team.
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