NetSuite ERP vs Epicor ERP

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software is a vital tool for businesses to manage and enhance their operations. Two popular ERP solutions are NetSuite ERP and Epicor ERP. In this article, we will compare and contrast the features, functionalities, pricing, ease of use, customization options, integration capabilities, customer support, case studies, pros and cons of both NetSuite ERP and Epicor ERP. We will also outline their future outlook and conclude with the better choice for businesses.

Introduction to NetSuite ERP and Epicor ERP

NetSuite ERP and Epicor ERP are both cloud-based solutions that provide businesses with a suite of applications to manage different aspects of their operations across departments. NetSuite ERP was founded in 1998 while Epicor ERP was founded in 1972 and their first software was specifically developed for the job shop manufacturing environment. Both software solutions offer a range of features that businesses can use to improve their productivity, efficiency, and profitability.

One of the key differences between NetSuite ERP and Epicor ERP is their target market. NetSuite ERP is designed for small to medium-sized businesses, while Epicor ERP is geared towards larger enterprises. NetSuite ERP offers a more streamlined and user-friendly interface, making it easier for businesses to manage their operations. On the other hand, Epicor ERP provides more advanced features and customization options, making it a better fit for complex and highly specialized industries.

Key differences between NetSuite ERP and Epicor ERP

One of the key differences between NetSuite ERP and Epicor ERP is that NetSuite ERP is a better fit for smaller businesses while Epicor ERP caters more to mid-sized to large businesses. Another difference is that NetSuite ERP offers a lot of out-of-the-box functionality and customizable modules that can be easily adopted and deployed whereas Epicor requires more customization and configuration before it can be used effectively.

Another important difference between NetSuite ERP and Epicor ERP is their pricing models. NetSuite ERP is a cloud-based software that is offered on a subscription basis, which means that businesses can pay for the software on a monthly or yearly basis. On the other hand, Epicor ERP is an on-premise software that requires businesses to purchase a license upfront and pay for maintenance and support separately.

Additionally, NetSuite ERP has a stronger focus on e-commerce and omnichannel capabilities, making it a better fit for businesses that sell products online. Epicor ERP, on the other hand, has a stronger focus on manufacturing and supply chain management, making it a better fit for businesses that have complex manufacturing processes and supply chain operations.

Pricing comparison of NetSuite ERP and Epicor ERP

Both NetSuite ERP and Epicor ERP offer pricing options that are tailored to the needs of the business. NetSuite ERP offers a range of pricing plans that start at $999 per month and can go up to $9,999 per month, depending on the modules and features selected. Epicor ERP, on the other hand, does not disclose its pricing information publicly and only provides pricing based on a consultation with their sales team. However, it is generally considered to be more expensive than NetSuite ERP.

It is important to note that while Epicor ERP may be more expensive than NetSuite ERP, it also offers a wider range of features and capabilities. Epicor ERP is known for its strong manufacturing and supply chain management capabilities, making it a popular choice for businesses in those industries. NetSuite ERP, on the other hand, is known for its strong financial management and e-commerce capabilities. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the specific needs and priorities of the business.

Features and functionalities of NetSuite ERP and Epicor ERP

NetSuite ERP offers a suite of applications that cover a range of business operations, including financial management, supply chain management, procurement, production, and inventory management, among others. It also includes features like CRM and HR management. Epicor ERP offers similar features but with a different approach to some modules. It has a more modular approach to its functions, which allows businesses to select the modules they need when they need them. Epicor is also known for its focus on manufacturing, distribution, and retail industries with an extensive use of BPM and workflows in the software.

One of the key advantages of NetSuite ERP is its cloud-based architecture, which allows businesses to access their data and applications from anywhere with an internet connection. This makes it easier for companies with multiple locations or remote workers to collaborate and share information in real-time. Additionally, NetSuite offers a high level of customization, allowing businesses to tailor the software to their specific needs and workflows.

On the other hand, Epicor ERP is known for its robust reporting and analytics capabilities. The software includes a variety of built-in reports and dashboards, as well as the ability to create custom reports and visualizations. This makes it easier for businesses to track key performance indicators and make data-driven decisions. Epicor also offers a mobile app that allows users to access the software from their smartphones or tablets, providing greater flexibility and convenience.

Ease of use comparison of NetSuite ERP vs Epicor ERP

NetSuite ERP is designed to be user-friendly, with an intuitive user interface that makes it easy for businesses to navigate different applications and features. Epicor ERP does require more training to be effectively used. As a result, both designers and users who are looking for more customization of the software tend to opt for Epicor ERP over NetSuite. However, once Epicor ERP has been configured and tailored to specific needs, it is very powerful and flexible.

Another factor to consider when comparing NetSuite ERP and Epicor ERP is the level of support provided by each vendor. NetSuite offers comprehensive support services, including 24/7 customer support, online training resources, and a user community forum. Epicor also provides support services, but they may not be as extensive as NetSuite’s offerings.

Additionally, NetSuite ERP is a cloud-based solution, which means that businesses can access their data and applications from anywhere with an internet connection. Epicor ERP, on the other hand, can be deployed on-premise or in the cloud, giving businesses more flexibility in how they choose to manage their software and data.

Integration capabilities with other software systems

Both NetSuite ERP and Epicor ERP offer extensive integration capabilities with other software systems such as CRM, HR, project management, and other business applications, which help to harmonize business data and processes, so businesses can improve their productivity and efficiency. NetSuite ERP also integrates with a variety of e-commerce platforms while Epicor ERP mandates the use of additional modules (e.g., Prophet 21) to support these integrations.

Furthermore, NetSuite ERP provides a SuiteCloud Development Platform that enables businesses to create custom integrations with other software systems. This platform offers a range of tools and resources, including APIs, development tools, and pre-built integrations, making it easier for businesses to connect their NetSuite ERP with other applications.

On the other hand, Epicor ERP offers a comprehensive integration solution called Epicor Integration Cloud (EIC). This cloud-based platform provides a range of integration options, including pre-built connectors, APIs, and data transformation tools, enabling businesses to connect their Epicor ERP with other software systems seamlessly. Additionally, EIC offers a user-friendly interface that allows businesses to monitor and manage their integrations easily.

Customization options for NetSuite ERP vs Epicor ERP

Another significant difference between these two platforms is the level of customization available. NetSuite ERP has an extensive library of out-of-the-box features, modules, and add-ons (extensions) that can be easily configured and customized to meet a business’s specific needs. Epicor, on the other hand, does require more customization and configuration from users who wish to tailor their functions. This can lead to higher costs for businesses using Epicor ERP.

Customer support and training options for NetSuite ERP vs Epicor ERP

Both NetSuite ERP and Epicor ERP offer a range of customer support and training options to help businesses get the most out of their ERP systems. They provide 24/7 phone and chat support, on-demand training materials like video tutorials, e-books, and webinars. However, NetSuite ERP also has a vast and active community of developers and users that provides free training, peer-to-peer support, and valuable insights for its clients. Epicor ERP, though not as large as NetSuite ERP, also has a thriving user community that provides valuable insights and feedback to its developers.

Case studies: Companies that have chosen NetSuite or Epicor as their preferred ERP system

There are several companies around the world that have chosen either NetSuite ERP or Epicor ERP as their preferred ERP system, depending on their needs. For example, House of Marley and FloraCraft use NetSuite ERP to streamline their business operations while Epicor ERP’s customers include Dussmann Gulf LLC, a leading facilities management service provider in the Middle East, and Masaba, a mining and construction equipment manufacturer.

Pros and cons of NetSuite and Epicor as an enterprise solution

Pros of NetSuite ERP include its customizable user interface, extensive library of out-of-the-box features and application-specific modules, and active user community providing valuable insights. Meanwhile, the pros of Epicor ERP include its modular approach, which allows businesses to select specific modules to add to their solution, as well as its powerful customization capabilities. Both solutions are cloud-based and scalable to grow with the needs of a business.

Cons of NetSuite ERP include its relatively higher pricing for larger-scale businesses and its less in-depth approach to manufacturing and supply chain management. On the other hand, cons of Epicor ERP its Need for increased customization to be tailored for specific industries and types of businesses, higher upfront costs, and potential complexity during implementation and training.

Future outlook for both NetSuite and Epicor in the enterprise software market

NetSuite ERP is expected to continue growing with the expansion of their end-to-end cloud capabilities and innovative acquisitions of complementary companies in the space of human capital management (HCM) and omni-channel e-commerce platforms. Epicor ERP, on the other hand, is restructuring itself as a 100% Cloud Enterprise Software provider Investing heavily in the commerce aspect of their offering and with a new user interface (UI) it is trying to improve its usability and agility for end-users. The choice between the two needs to be evaluated on a business by business basis to understand what is best suited for the organization.

Conclusion: Which is the better choice?

NetSuite ERP and Epicor ERP both provide businesses with powerful software solutions that can streamline their operations and enhance their productivity and profitability. The choice between the two depends on a business’s specific needs, size, industry type, and budget. Smaller businesses might find that NetSuite ERP’s pricing, ease of use, and customization options are a better fit for their needs. Conversely, mid-end businesses that need stronger features in predefined areas such as BPM and Workflows might find that Epicor ERP’s features and flexibility, as well as software modules adaptations, are better tailored to their specific needs. Positive feedback for both solutions indicate that they have proved successful for a variety of businesses around the world.