Compare Top 15+ Production Planning Tools: features & free trials

While examining the production planning tools market, we found that much of the available information is outdated, failing to reflect the latest advancements and deployment options. To provide a clearer view, the market can be categorized into key segments:

Note that the rating data is gathered from top B2B user review websites.

A production planning tool is a software or system designed to help manufacturers and production managers organize, schedule, and optimize their production processes. These tools enable businesses to allocate resources efficiently, manage workflows, and ensure that production operations run smoothly with minimal delays or disruptions.

Key features

Features that repeat in most of the tools are listed as:

1. Production planning and scheduling: They help create detailed schedules, considering factors like machine availability, labor shifts, and order priorities.
2. Resource utilization: These tools allocate raw materials, labor, and machinery efficiently to maximize productivity.
3. Inventory management: They monitor stock levels of raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods to ensure that production has the necessary supplies at the right time.
4. Manufacturing scheduling software: Specialized manufacturing production scheduling software assists in optimizing workflows and meeting deadlines.
5. Data-driven insights: Reporting and analytics help managers track performance, identify bottlenecks, and make informed decisions.

ERPs with production planning capabilities  

ERP systems with production planning integrate material planning, resource management, and scheduling into a single platform. They offer MRP (Material Requirements Planning) and APS (Advanced Planning and Scheduling)within broader business functions like finance, HR, and supply chain management.

These solutions are ideal for enterprises managing end-to-end operations and needing real-time coordination across departments. Here are some examples:

1. SAP Production planning

SAP Production Planning (SAP PP) is a module within SAP S/4 HANA ERP. SAP PP is also referred as SAP manufacturing ERP or SAP HANA for manufacturing. SAP PP helps organizations manage and optimize their production processes by aligning demand with manufacturing capacity. It includes tools for material planning, resource scheduling, production execution, and integration with other business functions to ensure efficient manufacturing operations.

Features:

• Production planning & scheduling  that aligns demand with production capacity.
• Material requirements planning (MRP) to determine raw material needs and procurement schedules.
• Capacity planning that optimizes resource utilization and avoids bottlenecks.
• Bill of Materials (BOM) management  to manage components required for production.
• Work center & routing management to define production processes and resources.
• Production order management that creates, schedules, and tracks manufacturing orders.
• Demand management to forecast and plans based on sales and historical data.
• Integration with other SAP Modules to work seamlessly with MM (Materials Management), SD (Sales & Distribution), and FICO (Finance & Controlling).

2. NetSuite

NetSuite is a cloud-based ERP system designed for businesses of all sizes. It integrates financial management, supply chain operations, and manufacturing planning, offering both MRP and APS capabilities within a unified platform.

Features:

• Automated work order management with scheduling
• Real-time production tracking via scanner & tablet
• Integrated quality management for compliance
• Warranty, repair & returns handling
• Centralized product data management
• Multi-location supply chain visibility
• Customizable workflows & integrations

3. Oracle ERP Cloud

Oracle ERP Cloud is a scalable enterprise resource planning system that supports large-scale business operations. It combines MRP and APS features with AI-driven analytics to enhance production efficiency and decision-making.

Features:

• AI-powered production scheduling
• Real-time scheduling and resource optimization for increased efficiency
• Changeover optimization and bottleneck resolution to minimize downtime
• Scalable for global manufacturing and multi-site operations
• Gantt-based visual scheduling with interactive, drag-and-drop adjustments
• Advanced analytics and reporting for data-driven decision-making

4. Epicor ERP

Epicor ERP is a manufacturing-focused enterprise resource planning system designed for discrete and process manufacturing industries. Epicor ERP, also known as Kinetic production management tool, integrates MRP and APS capabilities to enhance production control, scheduling, and efficiency while supporting both cloud and on-premises deployment.

Features:

• Integrated MRP and APS for optimized production planning and resource allocation
• AI-driven analytics and automation for data-driven decision-making and process optimization
• Advanced shop floor control with real-time tracking and scheduling tools
• Demand-driven manufacturing with automated inventory and material planning
• AI-driven analytics and automation for improved efficiency

Material Requirements Planning (MRP) tools specialize in material procurement, inventory control, and production scheduling to ensure manufacturing has the necessary materials at the right time. They are well-suited for predictable demand and standardized production environments, such as small to mid-sized manufacturers.

These systems often lack advanced scheduling flexibility but provide strong automation for material and resource planning.

5. MRPEasy

MRPEasy is a cloud-based manufacturing software tailored for small businesses. It offers essential tools for production scheduling, inventory management, and order tracking, providing a user-friendly alternative to larger ERP systems.

Features:

• Production planning with real-time work order tracking
• Inventory and procurement management
• Bill of Materials (BOM) and multi-level production structures
• Shop floor reporting for mobile-friendly worker activity tracking.
• Real-time tracking to monitor orders via Gantt charts and live updates.
• Cost & lead time estimation.

6. Katana MRP

Katana MRP is a modern, user-friendly MRP system designed for small and growing manufacturers. It focuses on real-time inventory control, visual production planning, and seamless integration with e-commerce and accounting platforms.

Features:

• Live inventory and raw material tracking for real-time planning
• Visual production planning with drag-and-drop scheduling
• Real-time order fulfillment management (MTS and MTO)
• Multi-channel sales integration (e.g., Shopify, WooCommerce)
• Shop floor app for task assignment, material and ingredient tracking, real-time updates.
• Automated costing from BOM and operations.

7. ERPAG

ERPAG is a cloud-based MRP system designed for small and medium-sized manufacturers. It integrates inventory management, production planning, and procurement, providing an all-in-one solution for businesses looking to streamline operations without complex ERP overhead.

Features:

• Cloud-based MRP with built-in inventory management
• Manufacturing management for production, BOMs, and workflows.
• Production planning and job tracking
• Procurement and purchase order automation
• Barcode scanning and serial number tracking
• Integration with e-commerce platforms.

8. Fishbowl Inventory

Fishbowl Inventory is an MRP system with strong inventory management capabilities, designed for manufacturers that need precise control over stock levels, orders, and supply chains. It integrates with QuickBooks, making it a popular choice for small to mid-sized businesses.

Features:

• Inventory and warehouse management with real-time tracking
• Bill of Materials (BOM) and work order management
• Integration with QuickBooks and other accounting tools
• Automated reordering and supplier management
• Barcode scanning for inventory accuracy
• Manufacturing workflow automation.

APS- focused 

APS tools extend MRP capabilities by adding finite capacity scheduling, constraint-based planning, and real-time optimization for complex manufacturing environments. They help manufacturers adjust production dynamically, considering factors like machine availability, workforce capacity, and supplier delays.

APS tools are essential for high-mix, low-volume, or custom production industries needing flexible scheduling.

9. PlanetTogether

PlanetTogether is an Advanced Planning and Scheduling (APS) tool that optimizes production efficiency by synchronizing resources, materials, and capacity in real-time. It helps manufacturers reduce lead times, minimize bottlenecks, and improve on-time delivery.

Features:

• Real-time scheduling
• Capacity & constraint management to balance workloads
• Multi-plant coordination to synchronizes production across multiple facilities
• What-If scenario analysis to simulate different scheduling strategies
• Automated order prioritization based on urgency and demand.

10. Skyplaner APS

Skyplaner APS is an AI-driven production planning tool designed to enhance manufacturing efficiency by optimizing schedules and managing constraints. It enables businesses to react quickly to demand fluctuations and resource limitations.

Features:

• AI-based scheduling and dynamic rescheduling based on real-time changes.
• Gantt chart visualization of production workflows.
• Demand-driven planning to adjust schedules based on sales forecasts and orders.
• Bottleneck identification to detect and resolve constraints.

11. Delmia

Delmia, by Dassault Systèmes, is an APS solution that integrates planning, simulation, and execution to maximize manufacturing agility. It allows businesses to optimize resource utilization and improve production flow.

Features:

• Automated scheduling adjustments
• Constraint-based optimization that ensures adherence to capacity limits.
• Advanced resource scheduling that allocates labor, machines, and materials efficiently.
• Digital twin simulation that tests production plans before execution.
• Multi-site production planning that coordinates operations across different locations.

MOM tools provide end-to-end control over production execution, scheduling, and quality management. They integrate MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems), APS, and real-time monitoring to optimize shop floor operations and ensure production aligns with demand.

MOM solutions help manufacturers maintain compliance, improve efficiency, and track performance in real-time.

12. SAP MES

SAP MES (Manufacturing Execution System) digitizes and optimizes shop floor operations by integrating real-time data, automation, and analytics. It ensures production efficiency, quality control, and traceability.

Features:

• Centralized operations
• Adaptable routing
• Automated data collection.

13. ABB Ability™ MOM

BB Ability™ MOM is a suite of applications designed to provide end-to-end visibility and optimization of manufacturing operations, enhancing efficiency and productivity.​

Production Planning Features:

• Production planning across multiple machines and mills
• Flexible workflow configuration
• Automatic ERP integration

14. Siemens Opcenter APS

Siemens OpCenter is a comprehensive Manufacturing Operations Management solution that integrates production, quality, and inventory management to optimize manufacturing processes.​

Features:

• Finite and infinite capacity planning options
• Dynamic scheduling adjustments based on real-time data
• Prioritization of production orders for efficiency optimization
• Integration with ERP/MES systems for end-to-end visibility
• Scenario modeling for alternative production strategies

15. Plex MES

Plex MES is a cloud-based Manufacturing Execution System that offers real-time production management, quality control, and supply chain integration for manufacturers.​

Features:

• Real-time production monitoring
• Integrated quality management into the production workflow
• Supply chain connectivity to synchronize production planning with inventory and demand.​

These tools offer robust features to enhance production planning and overall manufacturing efficiency.​

• Workload automation & enterprise job scheduling: WLA and EJS tools (e.g., ActiveBatch, RunMyJobs or Stonebranch) can automate job scheduling, orchestrate workflows, and integrate with manufacturing operations to optimize production planning and scheduling while reducing manual intervention.
• Inventory management software: This software solution ensures optimal stock levels of raw materials and finished goods to prevent shortages or overstocking.
• Spreadsheet software: While commonly used for production planning and scheduling, spreadsheets (e.g., Excel, Google Sheets) have scalability and accuracy limitations.
• Project management software: Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, Microsoft Project) help with organizing tasks, tracking deadlines, and managing dependencies, though it may require integration with specialized manufacturing business tools.
• Simulation software: These tools (e.g., Arena, Simio, FlexSim) are helpful for modeling manufacturing processes to test different scheduling and production capacity strategies.
• Artificial Intelligence software: AI-driven tools (e.g., IBM Watson, TensorFlow) analyze vast amounts of data to optimize scheduling, resource allocation, and quality control.
• Hybrid software: These tools (e.g., AnyLogic, Simul8) integrates multiple techniques like simulation, AI, and optimization algorithms for advanced production scheduling software solutions.

Benefits of production planning tools:

Production planning software is essential for streamlining manufacturing operations by enabling efficient manufacturing production scheduling software, inventory management, and real-time monitoring. Depending on business needs, companies may use basic spreadsheets, project management tools, AI-driven systems, or hybrid solutions for better efficiency and productivity.

• Optimized efficiency – Ensures smooth workflow with reduced downtime.
• Better resource utilization – Avoids overuse or underuse of machines and labor.
• Enhanced decision-making – Provides real-time data for informed adjustments.
• Improved delivery schedules – Helps meet deadlines by reducing production bottlenecks.

Use cases

1. Demand-driven production scheduling: A manufacturing company uses historical sales data and market trends to predict future demand.
   1. Impact: Prevents overproduction or stock shortages by aligning production with real-time demand forecasts.
2. Optimizing production capacity: A factory with limited machine availability schedules production to maximize efficiency while avoiding bottlenecks.
   1. Impact: Improves machine utilization and reduces idle time, ensuring smooth workflow.
3. Just-in-Time (JIT) manufacturing: An automotive manufacturer synchronizes production with supplier deliveries, receiving raw materials only when needed.
   1. Impact:  Reduces inventory costs and minimizes waste.
4. Multi-product line coordination: A consumer goods company schedules multiple product lines based on demand fluctuations and shared machinery.
   1. Impact: Balances resource allocation while preventing bottlenecks between production lines.
5. Workforce planning & shift optimization: A food processing plant organizes employee shifts based on peak demand hours and machine availability.
   1. Impact: Reduces overtime costs and improves labor efficiency.
6. Reducing production downtime: A pharmaceutical company implements preventive maintenance scheduling to avoid unexpected equipment breakdowns.
   1. Impact: Ensures uninterrupted production and minimizes costly delays.
7. Seasonal production planning: A retail company increases production before peak shopping seasons (e.g., holidays) and scales down afterward.
   1. Impact: Ensures enough stock to meet seasonal demand without overproducing.
8. Make-to-Order (MTO) vs. Make-to-Stock (MTS) planning: A luxury furniture maker follows MTO, producing only when orders are placed, while a fast-food chain follows MTS to keep inventory ready.
   1. Impact: MTO minimizes storage costs, while MTS ensures immediate product availability.
9. Energy-efficient production scheduling: A steel manufacturer schedules energy-intensive processes during off-peak electricity hours.
   1. Impact: Lowers energy costs and improves sustainability.
10. Emergency response planning: A medical supply manufacturer reconfigures production lines to meet urgent demand spikes during a pandemic.
    1. Impact: Ensures critical supplies are available in emergencies.

FAQs:

What are the 5 steps of production planning?

Production planning is a structured process that ensures efficient manufacturing by organizing resources, schedules, and workflows. The five key steps are:

1. Demand Forecasting – Analyzing market trends, historical sales data, and customer orders to determine production needs.
2. Capacity Planning – Assessing available resources, including labor, machinery, and materials, to determine how much can be produced within a given time.
3. Production Scheduling – Creating a timeline for manufacturing processes, prioritizing tasks, and allocating resources to maximize efficiency.
4. Execution & Monitoring – Implementing the production plan while tracking progress through key performance indicators (KPIs), real-time monitoring, and adjustments as needed.
5. Quality Control & Continuous Improvement – Evaluating the final product, identifying inefficiencies, and making improvements to optimize future production cycles.

These steps help businesses streamline operations, minimize waste, and meet customer demands efficiently.

What are the 5 functions of production planning?

Production planning serves five crucial functions to ensure smooth manufacturing operations:

1. Routing – Determining the best sequence of operations, including workflow, machine usage, and labor requirements, to optimize efficiency.
2. Scheduling – Allocating specific timeframes for each production stage, ensuring a balanced workflow that prevents bottlenecks and delays.
3. Dispatching – Authorizing production processes to begin, coordinating workers, machines, and materials to execute tasks as per the schedule.
4. Execution & Control – Monitoring production in real-time, tracking progress, and making necessary adjustments to maintain efficiency.
5. Feedback & Improvement – Analyzing production data, identifying areas for enhancement, and implementing process improvements for continuous efficiency.

By integrating these functions, production planning optimizes resource utilization, reduces costs, and ensures timely delivery of high-quality products.

What are tools in production?

Production tools refer to software, systems, and equipment that help manufacturers streamline operations, manage resources, and improve efficiency. Common production tools include:

1. Production Planning Software – Tools like SAP, Oracle, or Katana optimize production scheduling, inventory management, and workflow automation.
2. Project Management Software – Platforms like Trello, Asana, and Microsoft Project help organize tasks, deadlines, and resource allocation.
3. Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) – These provide real-time monitoring, tracking, and control over production operations.
4. Inventory Management Tools – Software like NetSuite or Fishbowl ensures optimal stock levels of raw materials and finished goods.
5. Simulation & AI Tools – AI-powered tools, such as Arena or AnyLogic, simulate production scenarios, helping manufacturers optimize production processes.

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