Author name: Shrestha Dash

Shrestha Dash is passionate about uncovering actionable insights and exploring the ever-evolving landscape of technology and digital transformation. With a strong analytical foundation, she delves into topics such as ERP, enterprise software, and digital ecosystems, offering in-depth research and thoughtful analysis. Currently working as an Industry Research Analyst at ElevatIQ, she combines her expertise in research with a flair for storytelling, helping businesses navigate complex industry trends and make informed decisions.

NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite M3 ERP Independent Review 2024

NetSuite caters to globally dispersed small to mid-market firms, offering robust financial capabilities and localization across many countries. On the other hand, Infor CloudSuite M3 targets companies surpassing entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica, Infor CSI, or NetSuite. It also delivers mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing and distribution operations. NetSuite suits diverse businesses, including service-centric, distribution-centric, and B2C organizations. Whereas, Infor CloudSuite M3 is successful in the upper mid-market, targeting the $250M – $750M revenue range.

Infor CloudSuite M3 provides a superior suite experience akin to SAP and Oracle, featuring enterprise-grade best-of-breed functionalities, including PLM, WMS, WFM, BI, and a Supply Chain collaboration platform. On the other hand, NetSuite supports lighter manufacturing and consumer products, particularly in health, beauty, fashion, and CPG. It also targets firms with revenues between $10M and $1B, emphasizing stronger financial capabilities. 

Infor CloudSuite M3 boasts extensive features tailored for process and apparel manufacturing, covering industries such as fashion, F&B, and chemicals. It is also adept at facilitating advanced global operations, particularly for companies spanning multiple countries seeking to optimize cost synergies globally. Choosing between NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite M3 requires a detailed examination, and thus, this comparison offers valuable insights for ERP selection projects. Therefore, let’s explore further.

NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite M3 ERP Independent Review 2024


The 2025 Digital Transformation Report

Thinking of embarking on a ERP journey and looking for a digital transformation report? Want to learn the best practices of digital transformation? Then, you have come to the right place.

NetSuiteInfor CloudSuite M3
Started in19982006 (Acquired by Infor)
Ownership byOracle in 2016Koch Industries
No. of customers 37,000+1000+

What is NetSuite?

NetSuite stands out as the leading ERP solution, driven by its success for diverse industries particularly seeking stronger financial capabilities over the operational, robust ecosystem, credible marketplace add-ons, and comprehensive functionality. Although not as complex as some competitors like SAP S/4 HANA and Microsoft F&O, NetSuite excels in supporting diverse business models, including omnichannel architecture, matrix/dimensional inventory, and subscription-based models.

While NetSuite excels across industries, it may not be the ideal choice for industrial distributors and manufacturers due to limitations in pricing and item master capabilities. Its strength lies in supporting lighter manufacturing and consumerized products particularly health and beauty, fashion, apparel, and CPG. With robust financial capabilities and an integrated HCM solution, NetSuite is well-suited for service-centric industries, including smaller banks, credit unions, financial services, non-profit organizations, as well as the technology and media sectors. While NetSuite remains the top-ranked solution due to its product quality, there might be challenges with over-customization and integration issues, leading to implementation failures. Thus, working with NetSuite demands thorough vetting of their solution and architecture.

What Is Infor CloudSuite M3?

Infor CloudSuite M3, is one of Infor’s flagship solutions, catering to particularly distinct micro-verticals across various industries. Sharing similar suites with Infor LN and built on the Infor OS platform, it is successful in the upper mid-market, targeting the $250M – $750M revenue range. Positioned for companies surpassing entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica, Infor CSI, or NetSuite, this solution delivers mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing and distribution operations. Infor CloudSuite M3 provides a superior suite experience akin to SAP and Oracle, featuring enterprise-grade best-of-breed functionalities, including PLM, WMS, WFM, BI, and a Supply Chain collaboration platform.

Infor CloudSuite M3 boasts extensive features tailored for process manufacturing and apparel manufacturing, covering industries such as fashion, F&B, and chemicals. It is also adept at facilitating advanced global operations, particularly for companies spanning multiple countries seeking to optimize cost synergies globally. The native capabilities of Infor M3 address global trade and compliance concerns, which are crucial for international business operations.

While Infor CloudSuite M3 serves as an excellent operational solution for a 2-tier architecture for enterprise companies, its limited focus on certain industries might not be the best fit for enterprise companies diversifying their operations or aggressive with their M&A strategy. The intricate data model and Bill of Materials (BOM) demand significant internal expertise and external advisory assistance to extract operational efficiencies. Notably, the technology landscape for Infor CloudSuite M3 remains somewhat patchy and less modern compared to its competitors. Furthermore, the ecosystem and consulting support for this solution is relatively limited. Despite these challenges, Infor CloudSuite M3 stands out as a robust manufacturing solution for upper mid-market companies with budget constraints.

NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite M3 Comparison

Navigating the choice between NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite M3 is a significant decision for businesses particularly looking for operational efficiency and strategic alignment. Thus, this section delves into the comprehensive comparison of NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite M3 across various critical dimensions.

NetSuiteInfor CloudSuite M3
Global Operational CapabilitiesHandles global multi-entity operations but not suitable for enterprise workloads.Robust financial hierarchies and global trade compliance functionality integrated.
Diverse CapabilitiesFavors B2C, hospitality, and service-centric industries.Supports diversified manufacturing business models.
Best-of-breed CapabilitiesContains pre-integrated HCM and FP&A components with varying maturity.Best-of-breed integrations provided out-of-the-box.
Last-mile Capabilities Limited last-mile capabilities, especially for manufacturing.Last-mile capabilities along with breadth of capabilities for diversified manufacturing business models.
Operational FunctionalitiesRicher financial capabilities over operational features.Infor CloudSuite M3 is a legacy solution with limited cloud-natve capabilities such as universal search, mobile experience, etc.
Integration CapabilitiesOffers several pre-integrated solutions with more options from Celigo.Tools such as HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated.
Manufacturing Capabilities Limited BOM layers for assembly-centric operations, requiring additional add-ons.Delivers mature capabilities for apparel, F&B, and chemical manufacturing.
Pricing ModelNamed-user based with inflexible long-term contracts.Subscription-based
Key Modules1. Financial Management
2. Accounting
3. Global Business Management
4. Inventory Management
5. Order Management
6. Supply Chain Management
7. Warehouse Management
8. Procurement
9. Customer Relationship Management
1. Financial Management
2. Manufacturing Operations
3. Enterprise Asset Management
4. Supply Chain Management
5. Customer Sales and Service
6. Application Foundation

NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite M3 Feature Comparison

Both platforms offer a plethora of features and functionalities designed to streamline business operations and enhance efficiency. In this feature comparison, we delve into particularly the distinct capabilities of NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite M3 across various critical dimensions, providing insights to aid businesses in making informed decisions regarding their ERP selection. Thus, this section discusses features under each of the following modules, particularly financial management and supply chain management.

Financial Management Comparison

In this section, we are discussing a detailed comparison of the financial management capabilities particularly offered by NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite M3. By examining their respective strengths and functionalities, particularly in managing financial processes. Businesses can therefore gain valuable insights to determine the best-suited ERP solution for their financial management needs.

NetSuite Infor CloudSuite M3
Financial ManagementGeneral LedgerSupports complex general ledgers including public reporting requirements of several countriesEnables organizations to manage financial transactions, maintain accurate balances, and generate complete financial statements.
Accounts Receivable and Accounts PayableAutomates and streamlines invoice delivery, payment processing, and collections management as well as accounts payable processes.Supports analysis across all accounting dimensions, including non-reconciled data for the AP model.
Cash Flow ManagementProvides visibility to optimize cash flows, monitor bank accounts, and manage liquidity.Provides complete control over accounts receivable and cash flow processes, unifying all AR information to monitor cash collection and enhance productivity and efficiency.
Tax ManagementManages domestic and global tax, generates detailed reports, and analyzes transactions real-time.Ensures accurate VAT calculation and recording for each country, automating tax calculations based on recipient location and country-specific rules, and maintaining financial compliance.

Supply Chain Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the supply chain management capabilities of NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite M3, shedding light particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

NetSuiteInfor CloudSuite M3
Supply Chain ManagementWarehouse ManagementProvides the ability to optimize day-to-day warehouse operations, eliminate manual processes and minimize handling costs.Optimizes operations with inventory management, labor management, 3PL billing, and 3D visualization, enhancing efficiency and interactivity.
Inventory Management Automates inventory management processes with multi-location fulfilment, cycle counting, replenishment, traceability and item visibility.Provides advanced statistical forecasting and stock recommendations for efficient inventory management, as well as supplier and customer rebate management to maintain high margins.
Procurement Streamlines procurement processes with source management, purchase management, vendor management and invoice processing.Manages purchase activities and maintains the resulting data.
Supply Chain Planning Provides the ability to analyze demand, determine replenishment requirements, add stock and create orders according to an up-to-date supply plan.Supplies planning capabilities are one of the robust for global manufacturing operations including most of the Supply Chain suite components pre-integrated as part of the suite.
Supply Chain ExecutionOptimizes all supply chain assets, controls costs at each step.Supplies execution capabilities are one of the robust for global manufacturing operations including most of the Supply Chain execution components pre-integrated as part of the suite.

Pros of NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite M3

When evaluating ERP solutions, understanding the distinct advantages of NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite M3 is crucial. In this section, we are particularly exploring the strengths of NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite M3 across various dimensions. Thus, shedding light on their respective capabilities and functionalities.

NetSuiteInfor CloudSuite M3
Provides richer financial capabilities over operational, with leaner operational layers built with the product.Ideal for upper mid-market companies or as subsidiary solutions in a two-tier setting for private equity-owned or holding companies.
Ideal for SMBs operating in different countries, but operational and supply chain planning might be limited for companies seeking global operational synergy.It can support the most complex manufacturing business models, WBS-centric manufacturing, or support for attributes with MRP planning.
The data model is B2C friendly, supporting integration with B2C channels.Most tools that make-to manufacturer would require, such as HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated with Infor CloudSuite M3.
Ideal for eCommerce-centric SMBs because of the ecosystem and the integration operations available for eCommerce-centric companies.While most smaller solutions might require ad-hoc arrangements for global financial operations, Infor CloudSuite M3 has them natively built.

Cons of NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite M3

Just like recognizing strengths is important, it’s also crucial to weigh the specific drawbacks of NetSuite vs. Infor CloudSuite M3. Therefore, in this section, we will delve into the limitations and challenges associated with NetSuite vs. Infor CloudSuite M3 across various operational and financial dimensions.

NetSuiteInfor CloudSuite M3
Not a great value for companies operating only in a few countries.The limited focus on certain business models poses the risk of requiring other ERP systems to support complex and diverse business operations.
May struggle with transactional workload requirements of companies over $1B and the ones that might be acquiring 10-20 entities every year.Private equity and holding companies requiring global solutions with a tier-2 solution at the subsidiary level might not be the best use of Infor CloudSuite M3’s strengths.
Not ideal for startups with simpler operating models.Infor CloudSuite M3 is a legacy solution with limited cloud-native capabilities such as universal search, mobile experience, etc
Named-user-based pricing requires allocating fixed costs, even for seasonal workers or external users accessing the subset of data such as customer or vendor portals.The consulting base and marketplaces are virtually non-existent for Infor CloudSuite M3.
Not fit for companies seeking OEM-owned integration with core operational systems such as CAD or PLM.Verticals such as apparel manufacturing demand deeper integration of PLM, vendor portals, and merchandising solutions to effectively manage their unique processes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing between NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite M3 largely depends on a company’s specific needs and market positioning. NetSuite, owned by Oracle, offers a cloud-native ERP solution particularly designed for globally dispersed small to mid-market firms with revenues ranging from $10M to $1B. Its strength lies in its robust financial capabilities, making it ideal for B2C, service-centric industries, and companies particularly requiring strong financial management and localization. However, its limitations in supporting intricate manufacturing operations and its challenges with over-customization must be carefully considered. NetSuite’s ecosystem, integrated HCM, and focus on lighter manufacturing and consumer products make it a strong contender for diverse business models but might not suit enterprises with complex manufacturing needs.

On the other hand, Infor CloudSuite M3 caters to upper mid-market companies with revenues between $250M and $750M, surpassing entry-level ERP systems with mature capabilities tailored for intricate manufacturing and distribution operations. Positioned as a robust solution for industries such as fashion, F&B, and chemicals, Infor CloudSuite M3 excels in process and apparel manufacturing and supports advanced global operations with extensive last-mile and best-of-breed capabilities. Despite its strengths, the limited consulting base, patchy technology landscape, and focus on certain industries may pose challenges for companies with diverse or aggressive M&A strategies.

To get a 360-degree view of feature comparisons, it’s essential to explore not only NetSuite vs. Infor CloudSuite M3 but also insights from other analyses such as NetSuite vs. Acumatica, SAP S/4 HANA, Oracle Cloud ERP, MS Dynamics 365 F&O, and MS Dynamics 365 BC. Also, seeking assistance from an independent ERP consultant can significantly aid the decision-making process, offering specialized advice and direction tailored to the specific needs of the business.

+

ERP Implementation Failure Recovery

Learn how Frederick Wildman struggled with Microsoft Dynamics 365 ERP implementation failure even after spending over $5M and what options they had for recovery.

FAQs

Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite M3 ERP Independent Review 2024

Acumatica stands out among three cloud-native ERP vendors particularly focusing on small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), alongside NetSuite and Sage Intacct. On the other hand, Infor CloudSuite M3 targets companies surpassing entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica, Infor CSI, or NetSuite. It also delivers mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing and distribution operations. Acumatica, however, caters well to companies with revenues ranging from $10-100 million, offering limited native localization features yet suitable synergies for global operations. Whereas, Infor CloudSuite M3 is successful in the upper mid-market, targeting the $250M – $750M revenue range.

Infor CloudSuite M3 provides a superior suite experience akin to SAP and Oracle, featuring enterprise-grade best-of-breed functionalities, including PLM, WMS, WFM, BI, and a Supply Chain collaboration platform. Whereas, Acumatica’s strength lies in its multi-branch capabilities and tailored support for various business models such as manufacturing, distribution, construction, and field service.

Infor CloudSuite M3 boasts extensive features tailored for process and apparel manufacturing, covering industries such as fashion, F&B, and chemicals. It is also adept at facilitating advanced global operations, particularly for companies spanning multiple countries seeking to optimize cost synergies globally. On the other hand, Acumatica serves as an excellent entry-level system for companies transitioning from QuickBooks or smaller point systems seeking seamless cross-functional integration. Choosing between Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite M3 requires a detailed examination, and thus, this comparison offers valuable insights for ERP selection projects. Therefore, let’s explore further.

Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite M3 ERP Independent Review 2024


The 2025 Digital Transformation Report

Thinking of embarking on a ERP journey and looking for a digital transformation report? Want to learn the best practices of digital transformation? Then, you have come to the right place.

AcumaticaInfor CloudSuite M3
Started in20082006 (Acquired by Infor)
Ownership byEQT Partners in 2019Koch Industries
No. of customers 10,000+1000+

What is Acumatica?

Acumatica is one of three cloud-native ERP solutions particularly similar to NetSuite and Sage Intacct. It has extensive multi-branch capabilities, particularly making it friendlier for retail-centric operations. It can also host multiple business models as part of the same database spanning manufacturing, distribution, construction, and field service. Thus, making it friendlier for diverse manufacturing or distribution-centric operations. Because of its limited global operational capabilities, it primarily targets US and UK-based companies. Thus, positioned as an ideal choice for companies within the $10-100 million revenue range, the majority of Acumatica’s customer base falls under this category.

Desiring a user experience akin to Odoo or Quickbooks, Acumatica ERP also offers versatility to accommodate various business models: distribution, manufacturing, or construction-focused. Although Acumatica has limitations in mature features like dimensional inventory or allocation, it is an excellent initial system for companies looking to streamline inventory or costs. With transactional processing and some mature capabilities, such as batch transactional processing, Acumatica is positioned as a valuable choice for businesses venturing into their first or second ERP solution.

Acumatica ERP is a fit for companies seeking cloud-native experience, particularly emphasizing features like enterprise search and mobility over deeper operational capabilities. Despite its focus on small businesses, Acumatica lacks robust globalization and localization features, catering to a limited number of countries by default. This simplicity, however, benefits smaller companies by avoiding unnecessary layers of multi-entity operations. Although targeting small businesses, Acumatica ERP surpasses Odoo or Zoho with the flexibility of its data layers, necessitating consulting help for implementation. The perceived benefit of Acumatica’s pricing is also a challenge, as it’s notoriously difficult to understand and predict.

What Is Infor CloudSuite M3?

Infor CloudSuite M3, is one of Infor’s flagship solutions, catering to distinct micro-verticals across various industries. Sharing similar suites with Infor LN and built on the Infor OS platform, it is successful in the upper mid-market, targeting the $250M – $750M revenue range. Positioned for companies surpassing entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica, Infor CSI, or NetSuite, this solution delivers mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing and distribution operations. Infor CloudSuite M3 provides a superior suite experience akin to SAP and Oracle, featuring enterprise-grade best-of-breed functionalities, including PLM, WMS, WFM, BI, and a Supply Chain collaboration platform.

Infor CloudSuite M3 boasts extensive features tailored for process manufacturing and apparel manufacturing, covering industries such as fashion, F&B, and chemicals. It is also adept at facilitating advanced global operations, particularly for companies spanning multiple countries seeking to optimize cost synergies globally. The native capabilities of Infor M3 address global trade and compliance concerns, which are crucial for international business operations.

While Infor CloudSuite M3 serves as an excellent operational solution for a 2-tier architecture for enterprise companies, its limited focus on certain industries might not be the best fit for enterprise companies diversifying their operations or aggressive with their M&A strategy. The intricate data model and Bill of Materials (BOM) demand significant internal expertise and external advisory assistance to extract operational efficiencies. Notably, the technology landscape for Infor CloudSuite M3 remains somewhat patchy and less modern compared to its competitors. Furthermore, the ecosystem and consulting support for this solution is relatively limited. Despite these challenges, Infor CloudSuite M3 stands out as a robust manufacturing solution for upper mid-market companies with budget constraints.

Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite M3 Comparison

Navigating the choice between Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite M3 is a significant decision for businesses particularly looking for operational efficiency and strategic alignment. Thus, this section delves into the comprehensive comparison of Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite M3 across various critical dimensions.

AcumaticaInfor CloudSuite M3
Global Operational CapabilitiesLimited multi-entity capabilities.Robust financial hierarchies and global trade compliance functionality integrated.
Diverse CapabilitiesOperationally rich for smaller companies.Supports diversified manufacturing business models.
Best-of-breed CapabilitiesLimited, relying on third-party add-ons.Best-of-breed integrations provided out-of-the-box.
Last-mile Capabilities May require add-ons for specific micro-verticals.Last-mile capabilities along with breadth of capabilities for diversified manufacturing business models.
Operational FunctionalitiesEmphasizes cloud-native experience but offers deeper operational capabilities and integration for smaller operations in fewer countries.Infor CloudSuite M3 is a legacy solution with limited cloud-natve capabilities such as universal search, mobile experience, etc.
Integration CapabilitiesNatively-integrated WMS functionality, lacks pre-integrated best-of-breed CRM, supports only embedded CRM.Tools such as HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated.
Manufacturing Capabilities Suitable for light manufacturing, limited mature capabilities such as allocation and Kanban.Delivers mature capabilities for apparel, F&B, and chemical manufacturing.
Pricing ModelConsumption-based, named, and concurrent but requires long-term contracts.Subscription-based
Key Modules1. Financial Management
2. Construction Management
3. CRM
4. Distribution Management
5. Service Management
6. Manufacturing Management 
7. Project Accounting Management
8. Payroll
9. Retail e-Commerce Management
10. Reporting, Dashboard and BI
1. Financial Management
2. Manufacturing Operations
3. Enterprise Asset Management
4. Supply Chain Management
5. Customer Sales and Service
6. Application Foundation

Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite M3 Feature Comparison

Both platforms offer a plethora of features and functionalities designed to streamline business operations and enhance efficiency. In this feature comparison, we delve into particularly the distinct capabilities of Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite M3 across various critical dimensions, providing insights to aid businesses in making informed decisions regarding their ERP selection. Thus, this section discusses features under each of the following modules, particularly financial management, supply chain management, and manufacturing management.

Financial Management Comparison

In this section, we are discussing a detailed comparison of the financial management capabilities particularly offered by Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite M3.

AcumaticaInfor CloudSuite M3
Financial ManagementGeneral LedgerDesigned to support ledgers limited to support one country. Limited multi-ledger capabilities.Enables organizations to manage financial transactions, maintain accurate balances, and generate complete financial statements.
Accounts Receivable and Accounts PayableThe AR and AP might be limited to just one country with limited synergies among vendors from different countries.Supports analysis across all accounting dimensions, including non-reconciled data for the AP model.
Cash Flow ManagementManages day-to-day transactions, cash balances, funds transfers, and bank account reconciliations for smaller operations.Provides complete control over accounts receivable and cash flow processes, unifying all AR information to monitor cash collection and enhance productivity and efficiency.
Currency ManagementCreates estimates for new or existing items, convert to bills of material, production orders.Enables currency conversion for better monetary analysis, allowing amounts to be expressed in transaction, division, and company currencies, with a default exchange rate type for conversions.
Tax ManagementProvides centralized tax configuration, management, and reporting.Ensures accurate VAT calculation and recording for each country, automating tax calculations based on recipient location and country-specific rules, and maintaining financial compliance.

Supply Chain Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the supply chain management capabilities of Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite M3, shedding light particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

AcumaticaInfor CloudSuite M3
Supply Chain ManagementWarehouse ManagementProvides real-time inventory visibility and streamlines warehouse operations.Optimizes operations with inventory management, labor management, 3PL billing, and 3D visualization, enhancing efficiency and interactivity.
Service ManagementEnables quick service needs capture, assignment, and real-time tracking, with features like contract management and appointment schedules.Offers work order processing, maintenance, material management, and operation reporting, aiding global manufacturers, distributors, and after-sales service providers in managing complex value chains efficiently.
Inventory Management Simplifies inventory processes with flexible item management and quality traceability.Provides advanced statistical forecasting and stock recommendations for efficient inventory management, as well as supplier and customer rebate management to maintain high margins.
Purchase Order ManagementStreamlines procurement processes with policy enforcement and process controls.Includes automation, vendor payment tracking, payment scheduling, check printing, open purchase order alerts, document management, direct ACH bill payment, and vendor records
Requisition ManagementOrganizes complex distribution processes involving multiple products and suppliers.Automates procurement processes from requisition to payment, including supplier selection, purchase order management, and invoice matching.

Manufacturing Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the manufacturing management capabilities of Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite M3, shedding light, particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

AcumaticaInfor CloudSuite M3
Manufacturing ManagementProduction Planning Assists manufacturers in addressing production demand with the agility to adjust to fluctuating schedules, unforeseen equipment malfunctions, delayed deliveries from suppliers, and other unexpected occurrences affecting operations on the factory floor.Supports planning in both multi-facility and single-facility production environments, managing critical materials at the facility level.
BOM and RoutingLets you efficiently plan and manage inventories, costs and manufacturing processes.Defines the product structure and assembly sequence, listing components and specifying the operations, work centers, and machines required for manufacturing.
Advanced Planning and SchedulingLets you create a more streamlined and accurate production scheduled, better enforce delivery dates and optimize for capacity.Generates real-time projections by comparing demands against a long-term plan, optimizing production resources, reducing costs, improving performance, and synchronizing supply chain operations.

Pros of Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite M3

When evaluating ERP solutions, understanding the distinct advantages of Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite M3 is crucial. In this section, we are particularly exploring the strengths of Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite M3 across various dimensions. Thus, shedding light on their respective capabilities and functionalities.

Acumatica Infor CloudSuite M3
Great 1st or 2nd ERP choice particularly due to limited layers and mature capabilities for larger companies.Ideal for upper mid-market companies or as subsidiary solutions in a two-tier setting for private equity-owned or holding companies.
Accommodates different business models spread in fewer countries under one database.It can support the most complex manufacturing business models, WBS-centric manufacturing, or support for attributes with MRP planning.
Great fit for SMB B2B businesses with complex product mixes.Most tools that make-to manufacturer would require, such as HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated with Infor CloudSuite M3.
Born in the cloud with consistent design principles across the application.While most smaller solutions might require ad-hoc arrangements for global financial operations, Infor CloudSuite M3 has them natively built.

Cons of Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite M3

Just like recognizing strengths is important, it’s also crucial to weigh the specific drawbacks of Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite M3. Therefore, in this section, we will delve into the limitations and challenges associated with Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite M3 across various operational and financial dimensions.

Acumatica Infor CloudSuite M3
Limited capabilities when multiple countries with different currencies and sub-ledgers need to be hosted as part of the same solution.The limited focus on certain business models poses the risk of requiring other ERP systems to support complex and diverse business operations.
Not fit for companies with over $100 million in revenue.Private equity and holding companies requiring global solutions with a tier-2 solution at the subsidiary level might not be the best use of Infor CloudSuite M3’s strengths.
The mobile capabilities are leaner for complex reporting scenarios such as parallel processing or reporting labor.Infor CloudSuite M3 is a legacy solution with limited cloud-native capabilities such as universal search, mobile experience, etc
Consumption-based pricing requires consulting expertise to estimate transactions as the pricing is not as predictable.The consulting base and marketplaces are virtually non-existent for Infor CloudSuite M3.
The last-mile capabilities required for manufacturing or industrial distribution may not as strong as purpose-built solutions such as Infor or Epicor but comparable to vanilla solutions such as SAP S/4 HANA.Verticals such as apparel manufacturing demand deeper integration of PLM, vendor portals, and merchandising solutions to effectively manage their unique processes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, selecting the right ERP system is pivotal for businesses aiming to optimize their operational efficiency and strategic alignment. Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite M3 both offer unique strengths tailored to different market segments and business needs. Acumatica shines as an excellent choice for small to medium-sized businesses, particularly those transitioning from simpler systems like QuickBooks. Its cloud-native design and multi-branch capabilities cater well to manufacturing, distribution, construction, and also field service operations within the $10-100 million revenue range. However, its limited global capabilities and complex pricing model may present challenges for larger enterprises or those with extensive international operations.

On the other hand, Infor CloudSuite M3 targets upper mid-market companies, excelling in process and apparel manufacturing industries. Its robust suite of best-of-breed functionalities, including PLM, WMS, and supply chain collaboration, particularly makes it a strong contender for companies within the $250-750 million revenue range. Despite its comprehensive capabilities, Infor CloudSuite M3’s legacy architecture and limited cloud-native features might not appeal to companies seeking modern, scalable ERP solutions.

To get a 360-degree view of feature comparisons, it’s essential to explore not only Acumatica vs. Infor CloudSuite M3 but also insights from other analyses such as Acumatica vs. NetSuite, SAP S/4 HANA, Oracle Cloud ERP, MS Dynamics 365 F&O, and MS Dynamics 365 BC. Also, seeking assistance from an independent ERP consultant can significantly aid the decision-making process, offering specialized advice and direction tailored to the specific needs of the business.

+

ERP Implementation Failure Recovery

Learn how Frederick Wildman struggled with Microsoft Dynamics 365 ERP implementation failure even after spending over $5M and what options they had for recovery.

FAQs

MS BC vs Infor LN ERP Independent Review 2024

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central serves as a logical choice for companies outgrowing smaller ERP, MRP, and accounting systems like QuickBooks, Microsoft GP, Odoo, Katana, or Fulcrum. On the other hand, Infor CloudSuite LN surpasses entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica, Infor CSI, or NetSuite, by delivering mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing intertwined with distribution operations. The sweet spot for MS BC would be $30M-$250 in revenue and a higher revenue band for companies that might use MS BC just for accounting and financial reporting while using mature operational systems at the subsidiary level. Whereas, Infor LN is successful in the upper mid-market, targeting the $250M – $750M revenue range.

The biggest advantage of MS BC is its consulting ecosystem and community support, which is much bigger than most ERP ecosystems. Contrastingly, Infor LN also provides a superior suite experience akin to SAP and Oracle, featuring enterprise-grade best-of-breed functionalities, including PLM, WMS, WFM, BI, and a supply chain collaboration platform.

MS BC is also ideal for companies with diversified, global operations aspiring to keep all of their entities in one database for easier reconciliation and tracking. While Infor LN excels in discrete manufacturing and offers a robust suite experience, it does face certain challenges in specific scenarios such as with process-centric operations for companies. Choosing between MS BC vs Infor LN requires a detailed examination, and thus, this comparison offers valuable insights for ERP selection projects. Therefore, let’s explore further.

MS BC vs Infor LN ERP Independent Review 2024


The 2025 Digital Transformation Report

Thinking of embarking on a ERP journey and looking for a digital transformation report? Want to learn the best practices of digital transformation? Then, you have come to the right place.

MS Dynamics 365 BCInfor CloudSuite LN
Started in2018 (Previously NAV)2006 (when Infor acquired BaaN)
Ownership byMicrosoftKoch Industries
No. of customers 60000+1000+

What is MS Dynamics 365 Business Central?

Rearchitected with cloud-native technologies, Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central is the SMB solution from Microsoft, globalized and localized in most countries with a consulting base available virtually in any country or language. Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central serves as a logical choice for companies outgrowing smaller ERP, MRP, and accounting systems like QuickBooks, Microsoft GP, Odoo, Katana, or Fulcrum. It is positioned against competitors such as Netsuite, Sage Intacct, and Acumatica. It also offers a vibrant ecosystem with numerous add-ons catering to industry-specific needs.

The sweet spot for MS BC would be $30M-$250 in revenue and a higher revenue band for companies that might use MS BC just for accounting and financial reporting while using mature operational systems at the subsidiary level. The biggest advantage of MS Dynamics 365 BC is its consulting ecosystem and community support, which is much bigger than most ERP ecosystems, and that’s why it’s probably one of the most popular solutions across geographies.

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central is also ideal for companies with diversified, global operations aspiring to keep all of their entities in one database for easier reconciliation and tracking. While the add-ons might allow companies to use Microsoft Dynamics Business Central for complex industrial operations, the natural design and core would be compatible with companies in industries such as non-profit, public sector, FMCG, F&B distribution, very light assembly manufacturing, telco, media, tech, energy, and utilities.

What Is Infor CloudSuite LN?

Infor CloudSuite LN is a complete product suite to meet the needs of an enterprise particularly similar to Epicor, SAP, Oracle, or Microsoft. Infor is also perhaps the only vendor after the larger ones that has the capabilities to build best-of-breed architecture akin to SAP, Oracle, and Microsoft. In fact, Infor might have deeper capabilities than Microsoft in some areas with pre-integrated best-of-breed solutions such as Infor WFM and Nexus. Infor is also the only vendor that can provide depth in several industries while not struggling with the transactional processing requirements of large accounts.

Infor LN is particularly ideal for discrete manufacturing companies. It is successful in the upper mid-market, targeting the $250M – $750M revenue range. Positioned for companies surpassing entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica, Infor CSI, or NetSuite, this solution delivers mature capabilities particularly for intricate manufacturing intertwined with distribution operations. Infor LN also provides a superior suite experience akin to SAP and Oracle, featuring enterprise-grade best-of-breed functionalities, including PLM, WMS, WFM, BI, and a supply chain collaboration platform.

While Infor LN excels in discrete manufacturing and offers a robust suite experience, it does face certain challenges in specific scenarios such as with process-centric operations for companies. They might also include business operations such as plastic or chemicals as part of their automotive operations. Despite limitations in broader capabilities compared to other vanilla solutions, recent upgrades acknowledge its broader application in various automotive business models.

MS BC vs Infor LN Comparison

Navigating the choice between MS BC vs Infor LN is a significant decision for businesses particularly looking for operational efficiency and strategic alignment. Thus, this section delves into the comprehensive comparison of MS BC vs Infor LN across various critical dimensions.

MS Dynamics 365 BCInfor CloudSuite LN
Global Operational CapabilitiesSupported and actively installed in most countries globally.Has sufficient layers of financial hierarchies and global trade compliance functionality pre-baked with products.
Diverse CapabilitiesSupports multiple industries and business models.Limited focus on certain business models.
Best-of-breed CapabilitiesPre-integrated with Microsoft CRM and field service but relies on third-party add-ons for additional capabilities.HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated with LN.
Last-mile Capabilities May require add-ons for specific micro-verticals.Last-mile capabilities along with breadth of capabilities for diversified manufacturing business models.
Operational FunctionalitiesEmphasizes core ERP capabilities, relying on partner add-ons for industry-specific capabilities.Infor LN is a legacy solution with limited cloud-native capabilities such as universal search, mobile experience, etc.
Integration CapabilitiesCommon data model, power platform and automate along with MS Azure platform for additional development and integration.Most tools that a manufacturer would require, such as HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated with LN.
Manufacturing Capabilities Lighter manufacturing capabilities.This solution delivers mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing and distribution operations.
Pricing ModelPer named user, per month. True consumption-based licenses can be adjusted without long-term contractsSubscription-based
Key Modules1. Financial Management
2. CRM
3. Distribution Management
4. Supply Chain Management
5. Project Accounting Management
6. Inventory Management
7. Reporting, Dashboard and BI
1. Financials
2. Human Resources
3. Manufacturing Management
4. Inventory Management
5. Purchasing Management
6. Quality Management
7. Sales Management
8. Product Technology

MS BC vs Infor LN Feature Comparison

Both platforms offer a plethora of features and functionalities designed to streamline business operations and enhance efficiency. In this feature comparison, we delve into particularly the distinct capabilities of MS BC vs Infor LN across various critical dimensions, providing insights to aid businesses in making informed decisions regarding their ERP selection. Thus, this section discusses features under each of the following modules, particularly financial management, supply chain management, and manufacturing management.

Financial Management Comparison

In this section, we are discussing a detailed comparison of the financial management capabilities particularly offered by MS BC vs Infor LN. By examining their respective strengths and functionalities, particularly in managing financial processes. Businesses can therefore gain valuable insights to determine the best-suited ERP solution for their financial management needs.

MS Dynamics 365 BCInfor CloudSuite LN
Financial ManagementGeneral LedgerInitiates general ledger postings, chart of accounts, general journals, VAT facilities, recurring journals, and source codes.The General Ledger is the core component of Infor LN Financials, recording all transactions within the application that affect accounting.
Accounts Receivable and Accounts PayableAutomates accounts receivables and payables and facilitates seamless reconciliation of accounts for swift and precise financial reporting.AR manages customer invoices and credit, while AP handles supplier invoices and balance management.
Cash Flow ManagementProvides comprehensive forecasting, analysis, and Azure ML-based prediction of cash inflows and outflows.Provides comprehensive forecasting, analysis, and Azure ML-based prediction of cash inflows and outflows.
Currency Management Manages multiple currencies across the system, including payables and receivables, general ledger reports, resource and inventory items, and bank accounts.The LN multicurrency systems allow a company to conduct accounting in multiple currencies, calculating and registering amounts in up to three currencies.
Tax Management Offers automated, configurable, and scalable tax determination, calculation, and settlement capabilities, accommodating complex tax scenarios across various business requirementsTax reporting is part of financial accounting and is limited to one country, so LN’s tax handling in a multicompany structure is similar to that in a single company environment.

Supply Chain Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the supply chain management capabilities of MS BC vs Infor LN, shedding light particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

MS Dynamics 365 BCInfor CloudSuite LN
Supply Chain ManagementWarehouse ManagementCan be implemented in different complexity levels, depending on a company’s processes and order volume. The main difference is that activities are performed order-by-order in basic warehousing when they are consolidated for multiple orders in advanced warehousing.Warehousing focuses on managing and replenishing goods within a warehouse, including tasks to report and analyze inventory movements.
Service ManagementService management is not built as part of the core platform but a pre-integrated specialized app is available for field service operationsManages the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of field-based and plant-based products, equipment, and systems.
Inventory Management Ensures inventory availability by automatically computing stock levels, lead times, and reorder thresholds. Also, maintains optimal inventory levels by adjusting orders dynamically based on real-time inventory updates.Can support complex inventory types including dedicated inventory masters for MRO or quality components for added granularity and control
Purchase Order Management Manages purchase orders, including blanket orders and related processes.Can create and modify purchase orders for purchasing goods.
Sales Order ManagementManages sales orders, including blanket sales orders and associated processes.They are utilized to sell and deliver items or services to a sold-to business partner under specific terms and conditions, originating from various sources like Contracts, Quotations, EDI, and Planning.
Requisition Management Organizes complex distribution processes involving multiple products and suppliers. Specifies nonsystem planned requirements for different types of items, including inventory items, cost items, and service items.

Manufacturing Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the manufacturing management capabilities of MS BC vs Infor LN, shedding light, particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

MS Dynamics 365 BCInfor CloudSuite LN
Manufacturing ManagementProduction Planning Enables the creation of production orders, definition of routings, allocation of resources, and optimization of production sequences, ensuring seamless operations.One of the most robust production planning capabilities including advanced planning and scheduling capabilities for diverse manufacturing operations
BOM and Routing Allows for the detailed mapping of production processes, including the components, subassemblies, and resources used, as well as the sequence of operations. It is stored as general item data for LN in Item Production Data (IPD).
Advanced Planning and Scheduling Takes into account all demand and supply data, nets the results, and creates suggestions for balancing the supply to meet the demand, ensuring optimized resource utilization and efficient production control.Stores scheduling information for projects, allowing you to define project plans along with associated activities and milestones.

Pros of MS BC vs Infor LN

When evaluating ERP solutions, understanding the distinct advantages of MS BC vs Infor LN is crucial. In this section, we are particularly exploring the strengths of MS BC vs Infor LN across various dimensions. Thus, shedding light on their respective ERP capabilities and functionalities.

MS Dynamics 365 BCInfor CloudSuite LN
Natively supports global regions and localizations where Acumatica, Epicor, or Infor might have limited support.Ideal for upper mid-market companies or as subsidiary solutions in a two-tier setting for private equity-owned or holding companies.
Unlike several products, it has support for several European, Asian, and African countries where most products might struggle.It can support the most complex manufacturing business models, WBS-centric manufacturing, or support for attributes with MRP planning.
The data model is friendlier for FMCG and distribution companies requiring native support for complex features such as bin tracking or license plate support.Most tools that make-to manufacturer would require, such as HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated with LN.
The product has been completely rearchitected using the cloud-native architecture. Cloud ERP capabilities are stronger than those of competing products.While most smaller solutions might require ad-hoc arrangements for global financial operations, Infor CloudSuite LN has them natively built.

Cons of MS BC vs Infor LN

Just like recognizing strengths is important, it’s also crucial to weigh the specific drawbacks of MS BC vs Infor LN. Therefore, in this section, we will delve into the limitations and challenges associated with MS BC vs Infor LN across various operational and financial dimensions.

MS Dynamics 365 BCInfor CloudSuite LN
Only fit for FMCG-centric distributors. The industrial distribution would require add-ons to support capabilities.The limited focus on certain business models poses the risk of requiring other ERP systems to support complex and diverse business operations such as process manufacturing or metal-centric A&D companies.
While the ecosystem may have options for distribution industries, it might not have integrations with the best-of-breed eCommerce systems in the industrial distribution space.Private equity and holding companies requiring global solutions with a tier-2 solution at the subsidiary level might not be the best use of Infor LN’s strengths.
The financial traceability may not be as intuitive for global, publicly traded non-profit companies.Infor LN is a legacy solution with limited cloud-native capabilities such as universal search, mobile experience, etc
The data layers are highly detailed, requiring substantial consulting help to be successful.The consulting base and marketplaces are virtually non-existent for Infor LN.
Microsoft doesn’t offer any support or control to its smaller products, leading to ERP implementation issues.The integration of Infor LN with MES enhances its capabilities, particularly in complex manufacturing processes.
While Microsoft Dynamics 365 BC has a vibrant marketplace to augment its core capabilities, the last-mile capabilities required for manufacturing or industrial distribution might be limited.Verticals such as automotive manufacturing demand deeper integration of PLM, CAD, and vendor portals to effectively manage their unique processes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both MS BC and Infor LN present compelling ERP solutions tailored to distinct market segments and operational needs. MS BC stands out with its extensive global support and cloud-native architecture, making it an excellent fit for SMBs in various industries such as non-profits, public sector, FMCG, and light manufacturing. Its strength lies in its vast consulting ecosystem and community support, which facilitate seamless implementation and customization. However, MS BC may require additional third-party add-ons to meet the complex requirements of industrial distribution and more intricate manufacturing operations.

On the other hand, Infor LN excels in serving upper mid-market companies, particularly in discrete manufacturing sectors like automotive, aerospace, and high-tech industries. Its comprehensive suite of pre-integrated best-of-breed functionalities, including PLM, WMS, and advanced supply chain planning, ensures robust operational capabilities. Despite its strength in handling complex manufacturing processes, Infor LN faces challenges such as limited cloud-native features and a smaller consulting base compared to MS BC. Ultimately, the choice between MS BC vs Infor LN depends on a company’s specific needs, operational complexity, and strategic goals, making it crucial particularly for businesses to conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the most suitable ERP solution. Also, seeking assistance from an independent ERP consultant can significantly aid the decision-making process.

+

ERP Implementation Failure Recovery

Learn how Frederick Wildman struggled with Microsoft Dynamics 365 ERP implementation failure even after spending over $5M and what options they had for recovery.

FAQs

Oracle Cloud ERP vs Infor LN ERP Independent Review 2024

Oracle Cloud ERP vs Infor LN ERP Independent Review 2024

Oracle ERP Cloud remains a top choice for large companies across diverse industries, particularly media, telecommunications, construction, energy, oil and gas, and healthcare. Despite the need for internal IT expertise, it is also suitable for companies with a need to integrate various third-party software systems. On the other hand, Infor CloudSuite LN surpasses entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica, Infor CSI, or NetSuite, by delivering mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing intertwined with distribution operations.

It is also successful in the upper mid-market, targeting the $250M – $750M revenue range. On the other hand, Oracle Cloud ERP particularly caters to companies needing ledger-level security and hierarchical financial reporting. Infor LN also provides a superior suite experience akin to SAP and Oracle, featuring enterprise-grade best-of-breed functionalities, including PLM, WMS, WFM, BI, and a supply chain collaboration platform. While Infor LN excels in discrete manufacturing and offers a robust suite experience, it does face certain challenges in specific scenarios such as with process-centric operations for companies.

Choosing between Oracle Cloud ERP vs Infor LN requires a detailed examination, and thus, this comparison offers valuable insights for ERP selection projects. Therefore, let’s explore further.

Oracle Cloud ERP vs Infor LN ERP Independent Review 2024


The 2025 Digital Transformation Report

Thinking of embarking on a ERP journey and looking for a digital transformation report? Want to learn the best practices of digital transformation? Then, you have come to the right place.

Oracle Cloud ERPInfor CloudSuite LN
Started in20122006 (when Infor acquired BaaN)
Ownership byOracleKoch Industries
No. of customers 10000+1000+

What is Oracle Cloud ERP?

Oracle ERP Cloud remains a top choice for large companies across diverse industries, including media, telecommunications, construction, energy, oil and gas, and healthcare (post-acquisition of Cerner). It is particularly suitable for organizations with substantial internal IT expertise and a requirement for integrating various proprietary and third-party software systems, such as patient claims management or utility billing solutions.

Oracle ERP Cloud is well-suited for global companies using it as their corporate financial ledger while employing other systems at the subsidiary level. Its robust financial capabilities cater to companies needing ledger-level security and hierarchical financial reporting, such as LOB, functions, or funds. Additionally, it seamlessly integrates a powerful HCM solution along with a natively integrated EPM solution.

Oracle ERP Cloud excels in risk management, advertising, and Cx cloud, particularly catering to industries like financial services and insurance. While it is a superior fit for service-centric industries, its success in product-centric industries has been limited. Often used as a corporate ledger, it might deploy another operationally rich solution at the subsidiary level in certain industries. Despite its strength for large enterprises, Oracle ERP Cloud is not the ideal choice for SMB customers.

What Is Infor CloudSuite LN?

Infor CloudSuite LN is a complete product suite to meet the needs of an enterprise particularly similar to Epicor, SAP, Oracle, or Microsoft. Infor is also perhaps the only vendor after the larger ones that has the capabilities to build best-of-breed architecture akin to SAP, Oracle, and Microsoft. In fact, Infor might have deeper capabilities than Microsoft in some areas with pre-integrated best-of-breed solutions such as Infor WFM and Nexus. Infor is also the only vendor that can provide depth in several industries while not struggling with the transactional processing requirements of large accounts.

Infor LN is particularly ideal for discrete manufacturing companies. It is successful in the upper mid-market, targeting the $250M – $750M revenue range. Positioned for companies surpassing entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica, Infor CSI, or NetSuite, this solution delivers mature capabilities particularly for intricate manufacturing intertwined with distribution operations. Infor LN also provides a superior suite experience akin to SAP and Oracle, featuring enterprise-grade best-of-breed functionalities, including PLM, WMS, WFM, BI, and a supply chain collaboration platform.

While Infor LN excels in discrete manufacturing and offers a robust suite experience, it does face certain challenges in specific scenarios such as with process-centric operations for companies. They might also include business operations such as plastic or chemicals as part of their automotive operations. Despite limitations in broader capabilities compared to other vanilla solutions, recent upgrades acknowledge its broader application in various automotive business models.

Oracle Cloud ERP vs Infor LN Comparison

Navigating the choice between Oracle Cloud ERP vs Infor LN is a significant decision for businesses particularly looking for operational efficiency and strategic alignment. Thus, this section delves into the comprehensive comparison of Oracle Cloud ERP vs Infor LN across various critical dimensions.

Oracle Cloud ERPInfor CloudSuite LN
Global Operational CapabilitiesEnterprise-grade multi-entity capabilities worldwide.Has sufficient layers of financial hierarchies and global trade compliance functionality pre-baked with products.
Diverse CapabilitiesSupports varied business models, may need third-party add-ons for industry specifics.Limited focus on certain business models.
Best-of-breed CapabilitiesSuite includes HCM, CPQ, WMS, RMS, TMS.HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated with LN.
Last-mile Capabilities Requires add-ons for micro-verticals.Last-mile capabilities along with breadth of capabilities for diversified manufacturing business models.
Operational FunctionalitiesDeeper supply chain and logistics capabilities.Infor LN is a legacy solution with limited cloud-native capabilities such as universal search, mobile experience, etc.
Integration CapabilitiesEnterprise-grade integration suite with pre-integrated components.Most tools that a manufacturer would require, such as HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated with LN.
Manufacturing Capabilities Best value for focused manufacturing at subsidiary level.This solution delivers mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing and distribution operations.
Pricing ModelNamed-user basedSubscription-based
Key Modules1. Financial Management
2. Project Management
3. Procurement
4. Risk Management and Compliance
5. Enterprise Performance Management
6. Supply Chain and Manufacturing
7. ERP Analytics
1. Financials
2. Human Resources
3. Manufacturing Management
4. Inventory Management
5. Purchasing Management
6. Quality Management
7. Sales Management
8. Product Technology

Oracle Cloud ERP vs Infor LN Feature Comparison

Both platforms offer a plethora of features and functionalities designed to streamline business operations and enhance efficiency. In this feature comparison, we delve into particularly the distinct capabilities of Oracle Cloud ERP vs Infor LN across various critical dimensions, providing insights to aid businesses in making informed decisions regarding their ERP selection. Thus, this section discusses features under each of the following modules, particularly financial management, supply chain management, and manufacturing management.

Financial Management Comparison

In this section, we are discussing a detailed comparison of the financial management capabilities particularly offered by Oracle Cloud ERP vs Infor LN. By examining their respective strengths and functionalities, particularly in managing financial processes. Businesses can therefore gain valuable insights to determine the best-suited ERP solution for their financial management needs.

Oracle Cloud ERPInfor CloudSuite LN
Financial ManagementGeneral LedgerEnterprise-grade ledgers to support multi-country operations at the global level with layers of sub-ledgers and complex closing process.The General Ledger is the core component of Infor LN Financials, recording all transactions within the application that affect accounting.
Accounts Receivable and Accounts PayableSupport for complex, global AR and AP processes, including shared services.AR manages customer invoices and credit, while AP handles supplier invoices and balance management.
Cash Flow ManagementEnterprise-grade capabilities for cash and treasury management.Provides comprehensive forecasting, analysis, and Azure ML-based prediction of cash inflows and outflows.
Currency Management Enterprise-grade capabilities for currency management, including support for complex currency processes such as hedging.The LN multicurrency systems allow a company to conduct accounting in multiple currencies, calculating and registering amounts in up to three currencies.
Tax Management Global and enterprise-grade tax management capabilities, with support for most countries in the world.Tax reporting is part of financial accounting and is limited to one country, so LN’s tax handling in a multicompany structure is similar to that in a single company environment.

Supply Chain Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the supply chain management capabilities of Oracle Cloud ERP vs Infor LN, shedding light particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

SAP S/4 HANAInfor CloudSuite LN
Supply Chain ManagementWarehouse ManagementStreamlines warehouse operations, enhances inventory management, and ensures seamless multichannel fulfillment, end-to-end inventory visibility, and integration with advanced features for efficient resource allocation and workflow optimization.Warehousing focuses on managing and replenishing goods within a warehouse, including tasks to report and analyze inventory movements.
Service ManagementEnsures efficient and effective service delivery through features like service request management, incident handling, and knowledge management.Manages the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of field-based and plant-based products, equipment, and systems.
Inventory Management Enables efficient management of goods flow, including inbound, within the warehouse, and outbound, while also supporting consigned inventory capabilities.Can support complex inventory types including dedicated inventory masters for MRO or quality components for added granularity and control
Purchase Order Management Helps organizations digitally manage and process purchase orders for supply chain and procurement activities, improving efficiency and reducing overhead costs.Can create and modify purchase orders for purchasing goods.
Requisition Management Ability to manage complex requisition management processes of globally complex enterprises. Specifies nonsystem planned requirements for different types of items, including inventory items, cost items, and service items.

Manufacturing Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the manufacturing management capabilities of Oracle Cloud ERP vs Infor LN, shedding light, particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

Oracle Cloud ERPInfor CloudSuite LN
Manufacturing ManagementProduction Planning Offers production planning capabilities including capacity planning, MRP, shop floor control, and demand planning.One of the most robust production planning capabilities including advanced planning and scheduling capabilities for diverse manufacturing operations
BOM and Routing Allows you to define lists of components associated with a parent item and outlines step-by-step operations required for manufacturing an assembly. It is stored as general item data for LN in Item Production Data (IPD).
Advanced Planning and Scheduling Plans all supply chain facilities, supporting both short-term detailed scheduling and long-term aggregate planning within a single plan. It also considers finite capacity constraints and offers holistic optimization capabilities.Stores scheduling information for projects, allowing you to define project plans along with associated activities and milestones.

Pros of Oracle Cloud ERP vs Infor LN

When evaluating ERP solutions, understanding the distinct advantages of Oracle Cloud ERP vs Infor LN is crucial. In this section, we are particularly exploring the strengths of Oracle Cloud ERP vs Infor LN across various dimensions. Thus, shedding light on their respective capabilities and functionalities.

Oracle Cloud ERPInfor CloudSuite LN
The product architecture supports the needs of large, complex financial organizations with deep sub-ledger hierarchies.Ideal for upper mid-market companies or as subsidiary solutions in a two-tier setting for private equity-owned or holding companies.
Oracle Cloud ERP has an ecosystem of experienced consultants capable of handling the architecture of such complex enterprises.It can support the most complex manufacturing business models, WBS-centric manufacturing, or support for attributes with MRP planning.
The embedded HCM and CRM processes are suitable for large non-profit organizations. The P2P workflows are friendlier for the indirect procurement needs of non-profit organizations.Most tools that make-to manufacturer would require, such as HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated with LN.
The workload Oracle Cloud ERP is designed to process millions of GL entries per hour.While most smaller solutions might require ad-hoc arrangements for global financial operations, Infor CloudSuite LN has them natively built.

Cons of Oracle Cloud ERP vs Infor LN

Just like recognizing strengths is important, it’s also crucial to weigh the specific drawbacks of Oracle Cloud ERP vs Infor LN. Therefore, in this section, we will delve into the limitations and challenges associated with Oracle Cloud ERP vs Infor LN across various operational and financial dimensions.

Oracle Cloud ERPInfor CloudSuite LN
Transactional and financial traceability may not be intuitive for large enterprises.The limited focus on certain business models poses the risk of requiring other ERP systems to support complex and diverse business operations such as process manufacturing or metal-centric A&D companies.
Data model and translations could overwhelm companies transitioning from QuickBooks.Private equity and holding companies requiring global solutions with a tier-2 solution at the subsidiary level might not be the best use of Infor LN’s strengths.
Complex MRP runs might pose challenges for costing and scheduling.Infor LN is a legacy solution with limited cloud-native capabilities such as universal search, mobile experience, etc
Customization and configuration may take longer due to unnecessary functionality.The consulting base and marketplaces are virtually non-existent for Infor LN.
P2P processes, CPQ, and manufacturing capabilities may not suit product-centric organizations.The integration of Infor LN with MES enhances its capabilities, particularly in complex manufacturing processes.
Limited last-mile functionality for quality and compliance, requiring add-ons or custom development.Verticals such as automotive manufacturing demand deeper integration of PLM, CAD, and vendor portals to effectively manage their unique processes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both Oracle Cloud ERP and Infor LN offer robust and comprehensive ERP solutions tailored to distinct market segments and operational needs. Oracle Cloud ERP is a premier choice for large enterprises with complex financial and operational requirements, particularly excelling in industries such as media, telecommunications, construction, energy, oil and gas, and healthcare. Its strength lies in its extensive financial management capabilities, global scalability, and integration with various third-party systems, making it ideal for organizations with substantial IT expertise and global operations. However, it may not be the best fit for small to mid-sized businesses due to its complexity and cost.

On the other hand, Infor LN targets the upper mid-market, specifically companies within the $250M – $750M revenue range, and excels in discrete manufacturing sectors like automotive, aerospace, and high-tech. It provides a mature suite experience with pre-integrated best-of-breed functionalities such as PLM, WMS, WFM, and advanced supply chain planning. While it faces challenges in process-centric operations and lacks some cloud-native capabilities, Infor LN remains a strong contender for manufacturing and distribution operations. Ultimately, the choice between Oracle Cloud ERP vs Infor LN should be guided by the specific operational needs, industry requirements, and strategic goals of the organization. Also, seeking assistance from an independent ERP consultant can significantly aid the decision-making process, offering specialized advice and direction tailored to the specific needs of the business.

+

ERP Implementation Failure Recovery

Learn how Frederick Wildman struggled with Microsoft Dynamics 365 ERP implementation failure even after spending over $5M and what options they had for recovery.

FAQs

SAP S/4 HANA vs Infor LN ERP Independent Review 2024

SAP S/4 HANA vs Infor LN ERP Independent Review 2024

SAP maintains its dominance in the ERP market, largely due to its stronghold in the enterprise segment where deals are significantly larger compared to the mid-market. The architecture complementing the S/4 HANA Suite is particularly favored by enterprise-grade companies, offering leading products like SuccessFactors, Hybris, EWM, Ariba, and Concur. On the other hand, Infor CloudSuite LN surpasses entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica, Infor CSI, or NetSuite, by delivering mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing intertwined with distribution operations.

SAP S/4 HANA targets larger companies with revenues exceeding $1B and with a substantial global presence, aiming to keep all global entities in one system. Whereas, Infor LN is a successful upper mid-market player, targeting the $250M – $750M revenue range. SAP S/4 HANA often becomes a default choice for enterprise companies due to high transaction volumes, stringent governance, and traceability needs. It particularly shines in product-centric enterprises requiring robust capabilities like MRP and allocation for global workloads. On the other hand, compared to SAP, Infor LN provides a similar suite experience, featuring enterprise-grade best-of-breed functionalities, including PLM, WMS, WFM, BI, and a supply chain collaboration platform.

Choosing between SAP S/4 HANA vs Infor LN requires a detailed examination, and thus, this comparison offers valuable insights for ERP selection projects. Therefore, let’s explore further.

SAP S/4 HANA vs Infor LN ERP Independent Review 2024


The 2025 Digital Transformation Report

Thinking of embarking on a ERP journey and looking for a digital transformation report? Want to learn the best practices of digital transformation? Then, you have come to the right place.

SAP S/4 HANAInfor CloudSuite LN
Started inPioneers of ERP2006 (when Infor acquired BaaN)
Ownership bySAPKoch Industries
No. of customers 28000+1000+

What is SAP S/4 HANA?

SAP S/4 HANA remains the top choice for large enterprises with global needs and extensive localization requirements across multiple continents. In this league, its primary rival is Oracle. While alternatives like Unit4, IFS, or Deltek might handle the workload for larger enterprises, they often lack the robust global compliance and transactional capabilities that SAP S/4 HANA offers. Additionally, SAP S/4 HANA excels in providing superior transactional workflow capabilities that are purpose-built to streamline traceability for large and complex organizations.

Moreover, SAP S/4 HANA is an ideal choice for companies seeking a best-of-breed architecture tailored to the needs of specific functions. This architecture allows for operational cores on different ledgers, which is particularly crucial for larger distribution and 3PL companies managing complex WMS networks. Companies with intricate HCM operations and stringent compliance requirements may find it necessary to integrate a best-of-breed system.

Additionally, for enterprises requiring sophisticated eCommerce platforms with components like CDP or CPQ, SAP S/4 HANA provides the essential capabilities. The flexibility and enterprise-grade best-of-breed architecture make SAP S/4 HANA a standout solution for such diverse operational needs. The cloud version may require additional third-party add-ons, similar to NetSuite. Nevertheless, organizations opting for the on-prem version can access superior capabilities, potentially outperforming other ERP systems.

What Is Infor CloudSuite LN?

Infor CloudSuite LN is a complete product suite to meet the needs of an enterprise particularly similar to Epicor, SAP, Oracle, or Microsoft. Infor is also perhaps the only vendor after the larger ones that has the capabilities to build best-of-breed architecture akin to SAP, Oracle, and Microsoft. In fact, Infor might have deeper capabilities than Microsoft in some areas with pre-integrated best-of-breed solutions such as Infor WFM and Nexus. Infor is also the only vendor that can provide depth in several industries while not struggling with the transactional processing requirements of large accounts.

Infor LN is particularly ideal for discrete manufacturing companies. It is successful in the upper mid-market, targeting the $250M – $750M revenue range. Positioned for companies surpassing entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica, Infor CSI, or NetSuite, this solution delivers mature capabilities particularly for intricate manufacturing intertwined with distribution operations. Infor LN also provides a superior suite experience akin to SAP and Oracle, featuring enterprise-grade best-of-breed functionalities, including PLM, WMS, WFM, BI, and a supply chain collaboration platform.

While Infor LN excels in discrete manufacturing and offers a robust suite experience, it does face certain challenges in specific scenarios such as with process-centric operations for companies. They might also include business operations such as plastic or chemicals as part of their automotive operations. Despite limitations in broader capabilities compared to other vanilla solutions, recent upgrades acknowledge its broader application in various automotive business models.

SAP S/4 HANA vs Infor LN Comparison

Navigating the choice between SAP S/4 HANA vs Infor LN is a significant decision for businesses particularly looking for operational efficiency and strategic alignment. Thus, this section delves into the comprehensive comparison of SAP S/4 HANA vs Infor LN across various critical dimensions.

SAP S/4 HANAInfor CloudSuite LN
Global Operational CapabilitiesDeeper multi-entity capabilities; widely installed globally.Has sufficient layers of financial hierarchies and global trade compliance functionality pre-baked with products.
Diverse CapabilitiesHandles diverse business models; may require add-ons for deeper capabilities.Limited focus on certain business models.
Best-of-breed CapabilitiesPre-integrated enterprise apps; augmented by third-party add-ons.HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated with LN.
Last-mile Capabilities Limited last-mile capabilities; may also need add-ons for micro-verticals.Last-mile capabilities along with breadth of capabilities for diversified manufacturing business models.
Operational FunctionalitiesEnterprise-grade operational capabilities; industry-specific features limited.Infor LN is a legacy solution with limited cloud-native capabilities such as universal search, mobile experience, etc.
Integration CapabilitiesHas several tools pre-integrated as part of the architecture but industry-specific integrations such as CAD, PLM, etc require third-party add-ons.Most tools that a manufacturer would require, such as HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated with LN.
Manufacturing Capabilities Complex capabilities; industry-specific limitations.This solution delivers mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing and also distribution operations.
Pricing ModelFUE (Full Use Equivalent)Subscription-based
Key Modules1. Financial Management
2. Sales
3. Procurement
4. Manufacturing Management
5. Supply Chain Management
6. Professional Services Automation
7. CRM
1. Financials
2. Human Resources
3. Manufacturing Management
4. Inventory Management
5. Purchasing Management
6. Quality Management
7. Sales Management
8. Product Technology

SAP S/4 HANA vs Infor LN Feature Comparison

Both platforms offer a plethora of features and functionalities designed to streamline business operations and enhance efficiency. In this feature comparison, we delve into particularly the distinct capabilities of SAP S/4 HANA vs Infor LN across various critical dimensions, providing insights to aid businesses in making informed decisions regarding their ERP selection. Thus, this section discusses features under each of the following modules, particularly financial management, supply chain management, and manufacturing management.

Financial Management Comparison

In this section, we are discussing a detailed comparison of the financial management capabilities particularly offered by SAP S/4 HANA vs Infor LN. By examining their respective strengths and functionalities, particularly in managing financial processes. Businesses can therefore gain valuable insights to determine the best-suited ERP solution for their financial management needs.

SAP S/4 HANAInfor CloudSuite LN
Financial ManagementGeneral LedgerCan support the needs of even the most complex financial organizations with more than ten ledger rollups at the country level and conversions.The General Ledger is the core component of Infor LN Financials, recording all transactions within the application that affect accounting.
Accounts Receivable and Accounts PayableSupports global collaboration of customers and vendors, including shared service model.AR manages customer invoices and credit, while AP handles supplier invoices and also balance management.
Cash Flow ManagementComplex treasury capabilities with support for global operations, including maintaining treasury KPIs, workflows, and processes for dedicated treasury departments.Provides comprehensive forecasting, analysis, and Azure ML-based prediction of cash inflows and outflows.
Currency Management Can support complex currency workflows such as hedging and planning for current impact on different financial statements and accounts globally.The LN multicurrency systems allow a company to conduct accounting in multiple currencies, calculating and registering amounts in up to three currencies.
Tax Management Has built-in support for taxes in over 100 countries.Tax reporting is part of financial accounting and is limited to one country, so LN’s tax handling in a multicompany structure is similar to that in a single company environment.

Supply Chain Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the supply chain management capabilities of SAP S/4 HANA vs Infor LN, shedding light particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

SAP S/4 HANAInfor CloudSuite LN
Supply Chain ManagementWarehouse ManagementCan support embedded or standalone architectural patterns along with complex business models such as 3PL or warehouse value-added services for third-party logistics.Warehousing focuses on managing and replenishing goods within a warehouse, including tasks to report and analyze inventory movements.
Service ManagementCan support complex quotes and service scheduling workflows of globally operated companies with large crews of field workers with scheduling dependencies of global operations.Manages the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of field-based and plant-based products, equipment, and systems.
Inventory Management Robust inventory management capabilities accommodating many different business models and inventory types of complex, global organizations.Can support complex inventory types including dedicated inventory masters for MRO or quality components for added granularity and control
Purchase Order Management Complex purchase order management workflows with automated approval rules, multiple layers of hierarchies of global organizations with procurement processes integrated with project management, and MRP engines.Can create and modify purchase orders for purchasing goods.
Requisition Management Ability to manage complex requisition management processes of globally complex enterprises. Specifies nonsystem planned requirements for different types of items, including inventory items, cost items, and service items.

Manufacturing Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the manufacturing management capabilities of SAP S/4 HANA vs Infor LN shedding light, particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

SAP S/4 HANAInfor CloudSuite LN
Manufacturing ManagementProduction Planning One of the most complex planning capabilities with enterprise-grade strategies to optimize production cycles for global companies.One of the most robust production planning capabilities including advanced planning and scheduling capabilities for diverse manufacturing operations
BOM and Routing Enterprise-grade BOM scalability for a variety of business models and products. It is stored as general item data for LN in Item Production Data (IPD).
Advanced Planning and Scheduling Enterprise-grade advanced APS capabilities for complex globally distributed planning workloads that need to be collaborated across geographies.Stores scheduling information for projects, allowing you to define project plans along with associated activities and milestones.

Pros of SAP S/4 HANA vs Infor LN

When evaluating ERP solutions, understanding the distinct advantages of SAP S/4 HANA vs Infor LN is crucial. In this section, we are particularly exploring the strengths of SAP S/4 HANA vs Infor LN across various dimensions. Thus, shedding light on their respective capabilities and functionalities.

SAP S/4 HANAInfor CloudSuite LN
It is an ideal solution as the corporate financial ledger for global companies with multiple layers of financial hierarchies operating in multiple countries.Ideal for upper mid-market companies or as subsidiary solutions in a two-tier setting for private equity-owned or holding companies.
The item master, product model, and warehouse architecture can accommodate the needs of most manufacturing business models.It can support the most complex manufacturing business models, WBS-centric manufacturing, or support for attributes with MRP planning.
Because of the power of HANA, SAP S/4 HANA can process very complex MRP runs with product models containing millions of serial numbers and SKUs, making it much faster than most ERP systems.Most tools that make-to manufacturer would require, such as HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated with LN.
Ideal fit for complex operations with its transactional maps capabilities built with the products, making debugging complex financial enterprises easier.While most smaller solutions might require ad-hoc arrangements for global financial operations, Infor CloudSuite LN has them natively built.

Cons of SAP S/4 HANA vs Infor LN

Just like recognizing strengths is important, it’s also crucial to weigh the specific drawbacks of SAP S/4 HANA vs Infor LN. Therefore, in this section, we will delve into the limitations and challenges associated with SAP S/4 HANA vs Infor LN across various operational and financial dimensions.

SAP S/4 HANAInfor CloudSuite LN
The controls provided as part of the product may feel unnecessary and overwhelming for smaller companies.The limited focus on certain business models poses the risk of requiring other ERP systems to support complex and diverse business operations such as process manufacturing or metal-centric A&D companies.
Overbloated financial control processes, such as compliance, allocation, and approval flows, are only necessary for large organizations.Private equity and holding companies requiring global solutions with a tier-2 solution at the subsidiary level might not be the best use of Infor LN’s strengths.
The data model is overwhelming for smaller organizations outgrowing QuickBooks or smaller ERP systems.Infor LN is a legacy solution with limited cloud-native capabilities such as universal search, mobile experience, etc
Despite advanced financial traceability and technical capabilities, the functional capabilities are not as rich as with its on-prem version.The consulting base and marketplaces are virtually non-existent for Infor LN.
While SAP S/4 HANA has one of the best best-of-breed solutions, they might not be as pre-integrated as other solutions.The integration of Infor LN with MES enhances its capabilities, particularly in complex manufacturing processes.
In industries where it might not be the most frequently installed as an operational solution, the other solutions are likely to have deeper last-mile capabilities.Verticals such as automotive manufacturing demand deeper integration of PLM, CAD, and vendor portals to effectively manage their unique processes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the choice between SAP S/4 HANA and Infor CloudSuite LN hinges on the specific needs and scale of an organization. SAP S/4 HANA stands out for its robust global capabilities, making it the preferred choice for large enterprises with extensive international operations and complex financial hierarchies. Its best-of-breed architecture, deep transactional workflows, and comprehensive support for diverse business models ensure that it can meet the demands of the most intricate and expansive organizations. However, these extensive features may seem overwhelming and unnecessarily complex for smaller companies.

On the other hand, Infor CloudSuite LN excels as an upper mid-market solution, providing mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing and distribution operations. It is particularly well-suited for discrete manufacturing sectors such as automotive and aerospace, offering integrated functionalities that rival those of larger ERP systems. While it may have some limitations in broader business model applications and cloud-native capabilities, Infor LN’s focused approach and pre-integrated best-of-breed solutions make it a powerful option for mid-sized companies or as a subsidiary solution in a two-tier ERP setup. Also, businesses must carefully assess their specific requirements with assistance from an independent ERP consultant. They can significantly aid the decision-making process, offering specialized advice and direction tailored to the specific needs of the business.

+

ERP Implementation Failure Recovery

Learn how Frederick Wildman struggled with Microsoft Dynamics 365 ERP implementation failure even after spending over $5M and what options they had for recovery.

FAQs

MS Dynamics 365 F&O vs Infor LN ERP Independent Review 2024

Microsoft Dynamics 365 F&O stands out for its enhanced cloud-native functionality, leading in capabilities over competitors like SAP S/4 HANA and Oracle Cloud ERP. It caters to large, global companies with complex business models, offering mature technology and a successful track record across industries. In contrast, Infor CloudSuite LN surpasses entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica, Infor CSI, or NetSuite, by delivering mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing and distribution operations. It is also successful in the upper mid-market, targeting the $250M – $750M revenue range.

Dynamics 365 F&O is ideal for companies with diverse global entities, spanning industries like manufacturing, distribution, and construction. Whereas, Infor LN also provides a superior suite experience akin to SAP and Oracle, featuring enterprise-grade best-of-breed functionalities, including PLM, WMS, WFM, BI, and a supply chain collaboration platform. However, navigating the Dynamics 365 ecosystem may require assistance due to the presence of unqualified partners. Similarly, while Infor LN excels in discrete manufacturing and offers a robust suite experience, it does face certain challenges in specific scenarios such as with process-centric operations for companies.

Choosing between Dynamics 365 F&O vs Infor LN requires a detailed examination, and thus, this comparison offers valuable insights for ERP selection projects. Therefore, let’s explore further.

MS Dynamics 365 F&O vs Infor CloudSuite LN ERP Independent Review 2024


The 2025 Digital Transformation Report

Thinking of embarking on a ERP journey and looking for a digital transformation report? Want to learn the best practices of digital transformation? Then, you have come to the right place.

MS Dynamics 365 F&OInfor CloudSuite LN
Started inOne of the most established enterprise software companies in the world2006 (when Infor acquired BaaN)
Ownership byMicrosoftKoch Industries
No. of customers 50,000+1000+

What is Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations (F&O)?

Microsoft Dynamics 365 F&O is often the third choice for larger global accounts, following SAP S/4 HANA and Oracle Cloud ERP. It offers a mature ecosystem with modern, cloud-native technologies, thus proving successful across various industries. It is perhaps the most diverse solution accommodating several global business models in one database, making it an ideal solution particularly for lower enterprise companies. While a great fit as a corporate ledger for large enterprises, it’s not as proven as other leading solutions in the enterprise market with workloads as high as millions of journal entries per hour that Fortune 1000 companies might demand.

Microsoft Dynamics 365 F&O also excels in localizations where other solutions may falter. A vibrant ecosystem makes it suitable for private equity and holding companies aiming to streamline their portfolio companies on one solution. SMBs, however, might find its complex data model overwhelming. Large, complex global companies particularly with revenues exceeding $1B will find Microsoft Dynamics 365 F&O appealing.

Although Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations lacks the operational depth of specialized solutions, larger companies favor its corporate-level financial control. In a two-tier setting, they often utilize additional Dynamics 365 F&O add-ons like Adeaca for operational requirements. Furthermore, MS365 F&O offers seamless integration for field service, HCM, and CRM at the database level, empowering large companies to construct a best-of-breed architecture. It is especially strong with WBS-centric processes covering operational and financial schedules equally well. The challenge with MS Dynamics 365 F&O would be the best-of-breed ancillary system, which are not owned and maintained by Microsoft, requiring third-party add-ons.

What Is Infor CloudSuite LN?

Infor CloudSuite LN is a complete product suite to meet the needs of an enterprise particularly similar to Epicor, SAP, Oracle, or Microsoft. Infor is also perhaps the only vendor after the larger ones that has the capabilities to build best-of-breed architecture akin to SAP, Oracle, and Microsoft. In fact, Infor might have deeper capabilities than Microsoft in some areas with pre-integrated best-of-breed solutions such as Infor WFM and Nexus. Infor is also the only vendor that can provide depth in several industries while not struggling with the transactional processing requirements of large accounts.

Infor LN is particularly ideal for discrete manufacturing companies. It is successful in the upper mid-market, targeting the $250M – $750M revenue range. Positioned for companies surpassing entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica, Infor CSI, or NetSuite, this solution delivers mature capabilities particularly for intricate manufacturing intertwined with distribution operations. Infor LN also provides a superior suite experience akin to SAP and Oracle, featuring enterprise-grade best-of-breed functionalities, including PLM, WMS, WFM, BI, and a supply chain collaboration platform.

While Infor LN excels in discrete manufacturing and offers a robust suite experience, it does face certain challenges in specific scenarios such as with process-centric operations for companies. They might also include business operations such as plastic or chemicals as part of their automotive operations. Despite limitations in broader capabilities compared to other vanilla solutions, recent upgrades acknowledge its broader application in various automotive business models.

Dynamics 365 F&O vs Infor LN Comparison

Navigating the choice between Dynamics 365 F&O vs Infor LN is a significant decision for businesses particularly looking for operational efficiency and strategic alignment. Thus, this section delves into the comprehensive comparison of Dynamics 365 F&O vs Infor LN across various critical dimensions.

MS Dynamics 365 F&OInfor CloudSuite LN
Global Operational CapabilitiesCan host multiple entities from different countries.Has sufficient layers of financial hierarchies and global trade compliance functionality pre-baked with products.
Diverse CapabilitiesCan accommodate most business models, may require add-ons.Limited focus on certain business models.
Best-of-breed CapabilitiesCrucial capabilities such as PLM, etc, may not be pre-integrated.HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated with LN.
Last-mile Capabilities May require add-ons for specific micro-verticals.Last-mile capabilities along with breadth of capabilities for diversified manufacturing business models.
Operational FunctionalitiesRich operational functionality for large enterprises.Infor LN is a legacy solution with limited cloud-native capabilities such as universal search, mobile experience, etc.
Integration CapabilitiesPre-integrated with CRM and field service.Most tools that a manufacturer would require, such as HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated with LN.
Manufacturing Capabilities Mature capabilities support diverse models.This solution delivers mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing and distribution operations.
Pricing ModelCost per user per month with flexible user management, without long-term commitment.Subscription-based
Key Modules1. Financial Management
2. Supply Chain Management
3. Manufacturing Management
4. Human Capital Management
5. Business Intelligence and Reporting
6. Security and Compliance
7. Develop and Customize
8. System Administration
1. Financials
2. Human Resources
3. Manufacturing Management
4. Inventory Management
5. Purchasing Management
6. Quality Management
7. Sales Management
8. Product Technology

Dynamics 365 F&O vs Infor LN Feature Comparison

Both platforms offer a plethora of features and functionalities designed to streamline business operations and enhance efficiency. In this feature comparison, we delve into particularly the distinct capabilities of Dynamics 365 F&O vs Infor LN across various critical dimensions, providing insights to aid businesses in making informed decisions regarding their ERP selection. Thus, this section discusses features under each of the following modules, particularly financial management, supply chain management, and manufacturing management.

Financial Management Comparison

In this section, we are discussing a detailed comparison of the financial management capabilities particularly offered by Dynamics 365 F&O vs Infor LN. By examining their respective strengths and functionalities, particularly in managing financial processes. Businesses can therefore gain valuable insights to determine the best-suited ERP solution for their financial management needs.

MS Dynamics 365 F&OInfor CloudSuite LN
Financial ManagementGeneral LedgerCreates and maintains accurate records for financial transactions and generates regular financial reports.The General Ledger is the core component of Infor LN Financials, recording all transactions within the application that affect accounting.
Accounts Receivable and Accounts PayableAutomates workflows for managing vendor invoices, payments, and customer invoicing, streamlining the entire invoicing process and improving cash flow management.AR manages customer invoices and credit, while AP handles supplier invoices and balance management.
Cash Flow ManagementProvides comprehensive cash flow forecasting capabilities, allowing to project future cash positions, identify potential shortfalls, and make informed decisions.Provides comprehensive forecasting, analysis, and Azure ML-based prediction of cash inflows and outflows.
Other FearturesChart of Accounts – Enables the creation of a hierarchical structure for categorizing financial information.Currency Management – The LN multicurrency systems allow a company to conduct accounting in multiple currencies, calculating and registering amounts in up to three currencies.
Budgeting and Forecasting – Creates and manages budgets across different departments and business units. Also, leverages historical data and predictive analytics, to make accurate projections and align their financial strategies with business goals.Tax Management – Tax reporting is part of financial accounting and is limited to one country, so LN’s tax handling in a multicompany structure is similar to that in a single company environment.

Supply Chain Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the supply chain management capabilities of Dynamics 365 F&O vs Infor LN, shedding light particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

MS Dynamics 365 F&OInfor CloudSuite LN
Supply Chain ManagementWarehouse ManagementProvides advanced warehouse and transportation management features, including inventory tracking, order fulfillment, shipment planning, and real-time visibility into logistics operations.Warehousing focuses on managing and replenishing goods within a warehouse, including tasks to report and analyze inventory movements.
Service ManagementEstablishes service agreements and service subscriptions, handles service orders and customer inquiries, and manages and analyzes the delivery of services to customers.Manages the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of field-based and plant-based products, equipment, and systems.
Inventory Management Offers real-time visibility into inventory levels, demand, and supply, enabling organizations to optimize their inventory planning, reduce stockouts, and improve customer satisfaction.Can support complex inventory types including dedicated inventory masters for MRO or quality components for added granularity and control
Other FeaturesProcurement and Sourcing – Streamlines the procurement process by providing end-to-end visibility and control over purchasing activities. Also automates and optimizes the procurement workflows, reducing costs and improving supplier relationships.Purchase Order Management – Can create and modify purchase orders for purchasing goods.
Transportation Management – Offers real-time visibility into logistics operations.Sales Order Management – They are utilized to sell and deliver items or services to a sold-to business partner under specific terms and conditions, originating from various sources like Contracts, Quotations, EDI, and Planning.
Demand Planning and Forecasting – Generates accurate demand forecasts, helping organizations optimize production planning, inventory levels, and procurement decisions.Requisition Management – Specifies nonsystem planned requirements for different types of items, including inventory items, cost items, and service items.

Manufacturing Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the manufacturing management capabilities of Dynamics 365 F&O vs Infor LN, shedding light, particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

MS Dynamics 365 F&OInfor CloudSuite LN
Manufacturing ManagementProduction Planning Provides comprehensive production planning and control capabilities, allowing organizations to optimize their manufacturing processes. The system supports various production scenarios, including make-to-order, make-to-stock, and engineer-to-order, while providing real-time visibility into production schedules, resource allocation, and material requirements.One of the most robust production planning capabilities including advanced planning and scheduling capabilities for diverse manufacturing operations
Shop Floor Management – Offers real-time monitoring of shop floor activities, capturing data on machine utilization, labor productivity, and production progress.BOM and Routing – It is stored as general item data for LN in Item Production Data (IPD).
Product Lifecycle Management – Enables organizations to manage the entire product lifecycle, from design and engineering to manufacturing and after-sales service. The system integrates product data, engineering change orders, and quality management processes, ensuring seamless collaboration and visibility across different departments.Advanced Planning and Scheduling – Stores scheduling information for projects, allowing you to define project plans along with associated activities and milestones.

Pros of Dynamics 365 F&O vs Infor LN

When evaluating ERP solutions, understanding the distinct advantages of Dynamics 365 F&O vs Infor LN is crucial. In this section, we are particularly exploring the strengths of Dynamics 365 F&O vs Infor LN across various dimensions. Thus, shedding light on their respective capabilities and functionalities.

MS Dynamics 365 F&OInfor CloudSuite LN
Has a significant advantage in its extensive consulting base and a vibrant marketplace, a unique benefit unmatched by many ERP systems.Ideal for upper mid-market companies or as subsidiary solutions in a two-tier setting for private equity-owned or holding companies.
Supports global operations and business models and pre-baked integration for the best-of-breed CRM and field service solutions.It can support the most complex manufacturing business models, WBS-centric manufacturing, or support for attributes with MRP planning.
Embedded WMS and TMS processes help companies that might require end-to-end traceability even after the good leaves the dock.Most tools that make-to manufacturer would require, such as HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated with LN.
Legacy product rearchitected for the cloud. So, while better than other legacy products that might be behind in the cloud. May not have as superior user experience as required.While most smaller solutions might require ad-hoc arrangements for global financial operations, Infor CloudSuite LN has them natively built.

Cons of Dynamics 365 F&O vs Infor LN

Just like recognizing strengths is important, it’s also crucial to weigh the specific drawbacks of Dynamics 365 F&O vs Infor LN. Therefore, in this section, we will delve into the limitations and challenges associated with Dynamics 365 F&O vs Infor LN across various operational and financial dimensions.

MS Dynamics 365 F&OInfor CloudSuite LN
Overwhelming for smaller companies with the configuration and approval flows built for large enterprises.The limited focus on certain business models poses the risk of requiring other ERP systems to support complex and diverse business operations such as process manufacturing or metal-centric A&D companies.
Might not be able to match the performance expectations of larger organizations where processing millions of journal entries per hour is required.Private equity and holding companies requiring global solutions with a tier-2 solution at the subsidiary level might not be the best use of Infor LN’s strengths.
Overbloated financial control processes, such as compliance, allocation, and approval flows, which are only necessary for large organizations.Infor LN is a legacy solution with limited cloud-native capabilities such as universal search, mobile experience, etc
May require consulting assistance to navigate the channel, given the presence of unqualified ISVs and VARs.The consulting base and marketplaces are virtually non-existent for Infor LN.
Integration with A&D-specific PLMs, configurators, and CPQ systems is not out-of-the-box, increasing the implementation time and costs.The integration of Infor LN with MES enhances its capabilities, particularly in complex manufacturing processes.
The last-mile capabilities for specific A&D verticals, such as integration with GovCon processes and databases, may require solutions from third parties or custom integration, making the implementation overly expensive.Verticals such as automotive manufacturing demand deeper integration of PLM, CAD, and vendor portals to effectively manage their unique processes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both Microsoft Dynamics 365 F&O and Infor LN offer robust and comprehensive ERP solutions tailored to different market needs and business complexities. Dynamics 365 F&O particularly excels in providing a diverse, cloud-native environment suitable for large, global companies with intricate financial and operational requirements. Its extensive consulting base, rich ecosystem, and seamless integration with other Microsoft solutions make it a preferred choice particularly for large enterprises and private equity firms managing diverse portfolios. However, its complexity and scale might overwhelm smaller organizations or those with simpler operational models.

On the other hand, Infor CloudSuite LN shines in the upper mid-market segment, particularly for companies with revenues between $250M and $750M, focusing on discrete manufacturing and intricate supply chain operations. Its pre-integrated best-of-breed functionalities, including PLM, WMS, and advanced supply chain planning, offer mature capabilities particularly for complex manufacturing environments. Despite its strengths, Infor LN may face challenges in process-centric operations and lacks the extensive cloud-native features and user experience offered by newer solutions. Ultimately, the choice between Dynamics 365 F&O vs Infor LN hinges on a detailed assessment of specific business needs, operational complexities, and also long-term strategic goals. Also, seeking assistance from an independent ERP consultant can significantly aid the decision-making process, offering specialized advice and direction tailored to the specific needs of the business.

+

ERP Implementation Failure Recovery

Learn how Frederick Wildman struggled with Microsoft Dynamics 365 ERP implementation failure even after spending over $5M and what options they had for recovery.

FAQs

NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite LN ERP Independent Review 2024

NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite LN ERP Independent Review 2024

NetSuite caters to globally dispersed small to mid-market firms, offering robust financial capabilities and localization across many countries. On the other hand, Infor CloudSuite LN surpasses entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica, Infor CSI, or NetSuite, by delivering mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing intertwined with distribution operations. NetSuite suits diverse businesses, including service-centric, distribution-centric, and B2C organizations. Meanwhile, Infor CloudSuite LN is also successful in the upper mid-market, targeting the $250M – $750M revenue range.

NetSuite targets firms with revenues between $10M and $1B, emphasizing stronger financial capabilities. Whereas, Infor LN also provides a superior suite experience akin to SAP and Oracle, featuring enterprise-grade best-of-breed functionalities, including PLM, WMS, WFM, BI, and a supply chain collaboration platform. NetSuite supports lighter manufacturing and consumer products, particularly in health, beauty, fashion, and CPG. While Infor LN excels in discrete manufacturing and offers a robust suite experience, it does face certain challenges in specific scenarios such as with process-centric operations for companies.

Choosing between NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite LN requires a detailed examination, and thus, this comparison offers valuable insights for ERP selection projects. Therefore, let’s explore further.

NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite LN ERP Independent Review 2024


The 2025 Digital Transformation Report

Thinking of embarking on a ERP journey and looking for a digital transformation report? Want to learn the best practices of digital transformation? Then, you have come to the right place.

NetSuiteInfor CloudSuite LN
Started in19982006 (when Infor acquired BaaN)
Ownership byOracle in 2016Koch Industries
No. of customers 37,000+1000+

What is NetSuite?

NetSuite stands out as the leading ERP solution, driven by its success for diverse industries particularly seeking stronger financial capabilities over the operational, robust ecosystem, credible marketplace add-ons, and comprehensive functionality. Although not as complex as some competitors like SAP S/4 HANA and Microsoft F&O, NetSuite excels in supporting diverse business models, including omnichannel architecture, matrix/dimensional inventory, and subscription-based models.

While NetSuite excels across industries, it may not be the ideal choice for industrial distributors and manufacturers due to limitations in pricing and item master capabilities. Its strength lies in supporting lighter manufacturing and consumerized products particularly health and beauty, fashion, apparel, and CPG. With robust financial capabilities and an integrated HCM solution, NetSuite is well-suited for service-centric industries, including smaller banks, credit unions, financial services, non-profit organizations, as well as the technology and media sectors.

While NetSuite remains the top-ranked solution due to its product quality, there might be challenges with over-customization and integration issues, leading to implementation failures. Thus, working with NetSuite demands thorough vetting of their solution and architecture.

What Is Infor CloudSuite LN?

Infor CloudSuite LN is a complete product suite to meet the needs of an enterprise similar to Epicor, SAP, Oracle, or Microsoft. Infor is also perhaps the only vendor after the larger ones that has the capabilities to build best-of-breed architecture akin to SAP, Oracle, and Microsoft. In fact, Infor might have deeper capabilities than Microsoft in some areas with pre-integrated best-of-breed solutions such as Infor WFM and Nexus. Infor is also the only vendor that can provide depth in several industries while not struggling with the transactional processing requirements of large accounts.

Infor LN is ideal for discrete manufacturing companies. It is successful in the upper mid-market, targeting the $250M – $750M revenue range. Positioned for companies surpassing entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica, Infor CSI, or NetSuite, this solution delivers mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing intertwined with distribution operations. Infor LN also provides a superior suite experience akin to SAP and Oracle, featuring enterprise-grade best-of-breed functionalities, including PLM, WMS, WFM, BI, and a supply chain collaboration platform.

While Infor LN excels in discrete manufacturing and offers a robust suite experience, it does face certain challenges in specific scenarios such as with process-centric operations for companies. They might also include business operations such as plastic or chemicals as part of their automotive operations. Despite limitations in broader capabilities compared to other vanilla solutions, recent upgrades acknowledge its broader application in various automotive business models.

NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite LN Comparison

Navigating the choice between NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite LN is a significant decision for businesses particularly looking for operational efficiency and strategic alignment. Thus, this section delves into the comprehensive comparison of NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite LN across various critical dimensions.

NetSuiteInfor CloudSuite LN
Global Operational CapabilitiesHandles global multi-entity operations but not suitable for enterprise workloads.Has sufficient layers of financial hierarchies and global trade compliance functionality pre-baked with products.
Diverse CapabilitiesFavors B2C, hospitality, and service-centric industries.Limited focus on certain business models.
Best-of-breed CapabilitiesContains pre-integrated HCM and FP&A components with varying maturity.HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated with LN.
Last-mile Capabilities Limited last-mile capabilities, especially for manufacturing.Last-mile capabilities along with breadth of capabilities for diversified manufacturing business models.
Operational FunctionalitiesRicher financial capabilities over operational features.Infor LN is a legacy solution with limited cloud-native capabilities such as universal search, mobile experience, etc.
Integration CapabilitiesOffers several pre-integrated solutions with more options from Celigo.Most tools that a manufacturer would require, such as HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated with LN.
Manufacturing Capabilities Limited BOM layers for assembly-centric operations, requiring additional add-ons.This solution delivers mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing and distribution operations.
Pricing ModelNamed-user based with inflexible long-term contracts.Subscription-based
Key Modules1. Financial Management
2. Accounting
3. Global Business Management
4. Inventory Management
5. Order Management
6. Supply Chain Management
7. Warehouse Management
8. Procurement
9. Customer Relationship Management
1. Financials
2. Human Resources
3. Manufacturing Management
4. Inventory Management
5. Purchasing Management
6. Quality Management
7. Sales Management
8. Product Technology

NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite LN Feature Comparison

Both platforms offer a plethora of features and functionalities designed to streamline business operations and enhance efficiency. In this feature comparison, we delve into particularly the distinct capabilities of NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite LN across various critical dimensions, providing insights to aid businesses in making informed decisions regarding their ERP selection. Thus, this section discusses features under each of the following modules, particularly financial management and supply chain management.

Financial Management Comparison

In this section, we are discussing a detailed comparison of the financial management capabilities particularly offered by NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite LN. By examining their respective strengths and functionalities, particularly in managing financial processes. Businesses can therefore gain valuable insights to determine the best-suited ERP solution for their financial management needs.

NetSuiteInfor CloudSuite LN
Financial ManagementGeneral LedgerSupports complex general ledgers including public reporting requirements of several countriesThe General Ledger is the core component of Infor LN Financials, recording all transactions within the application that affect accounting.
Accounts Receivable and Accounts PayableAutomates and streamlines invoice delivery, payment processing, and collections management as well as accounts payable processes.AR manages customer invoices and credit, while AP handles supplier invoices and balance management.
Cash Flow ManagementProvides visibility to optimize cash flows, monitor bank accounts, and manage liquidity.Provides comprehensive forecasting, analysis, and Azure ML-based prediction of cash inflows and outflows.
Tax ManagementManages domestic and global tax, generates detailed reports, and analyzes transactions real-time.Tax reporting is part of financial accounting and is limited to one country, so LN’s tax handling in a multicompany structure is similar to that in a single company environment.

Supply Chain Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the supply chain management capabilities of NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite LN, shedding light particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

NetSuiteInfor CloudSuite LN
Supply Chain ManagementWarehouse ManagementProvides the ability to optimize day-to-day warehouse operations, eliminate manual processes and minimize handling costs.Warehousing focuses on managing and replenishing goods within a warehouse, including tasks to report and analyze inventory movements.
Inventory Management Automates inventory management processes with multi-location fulfilment, cycle counting, replenishment, traceability and item visibility.Can support complex inventory types including dedicated inventory masters for MRO or quality components for added granularity and control.
Procurement Streamlines procurement processes with source management, purchase management, vendor management and invoice processing.Manages purchase activities and maintains the resulting data.
Supply Chain Planning Provides the ability to analyze demand, determine replenishment requirements, add stock and create orders according to an up-to-date supply plan.Supplies planning capabilities are one of the robust for global manufacturing operations including most of the Supply Chain suite components pre-integrated as part of the suite.
Supply Chain ExecutionOptimizes all supply chain assets, controls costs at each step.Supplies execution capabilities are one of the robust for global manufacturing operations including most of the Supply Chain execution components pre-integrated as part of the suite.

Pros of NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite LN

When evaluating ERP solutions, understanding the distinct advantages of NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite LN is crucial. In this section, we are particularly exploring the strengths of NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite LN across various dimensions. Thus, shedding light on their respective capabilities and functionalities.

NetSuiteInfor CloudSuite LN
Provides richer financial capabilities over operational, with leaner operational layers built with the product.Ideal for upper mid-market companies or as subsidiary solutions in a two-tier setting for private equity-owned or holding companies.
Ideal for SMBs operating in different countries.It can support the most complex manufacturing business models, WBS-centric manufacturing, or support for attributes with MRP planning.
The data model is B2C friendly, supporting integration with B2C channels.Most tools that make-to manufacturer would require, such as HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated with LN.
Ideal for eCommerce-centric SMBs because of the ecosystem and the integration operations available for eCommerce-centric companies.While most smaller solutions might require ad-hoc arrangements for global financial operations, Infor CloudSuite LN has them natively built.

Cons of NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite LN

Just like recognizing strengths is important, it’s also crucial to weigh the specific drawbacks of NetSuite vs. Infor CloudSuite LN. Therefore, in this section, we will delve into the limitations and challenges associated with NetSuite vs. Infor CloudSuite LN across various operational and financial dimensions.

NetSuiteInfor CloudSuite LN
Not a great value for companies operating only in a few countries.The limited focus on certain business models poses the risk of requiring other ERP systems to support complex and diverse business operations such as process manufacturing or metal-centric A&D companies.
May struggle with transactional workload requirements of companies over $1B and the ones that might be acquiring 10-20 entities every year.Private equity and holding companies requiring global solutions with a tier-2 solution at the subsidiary level might not be the best use of Infor LN’s strengths.
Not ideal for startups with simpler operating models.Infor LN is a legacy solution with limited cloud-native capabilities such as universal search, mobile experience, etc
Named-user-based pricing requires allocating fixed costs, even for seasonal workers or external users accessing the subset of data such as customer or vendor portals.The consulting base and marketplaces are virtually non-existent for Infor LN.
Not fit for companies seeking OEM-owned integration with core operational systems such as CAD or PLM.The integration of Infor LN with MES enhances its capabilities, particularly in complex manufacturing processes.
The last-mile capabilities required for manufacturing or industrial distribution are extremely limited.Verticals such as automotive manufacturing demand deeper integration of PLM, CAD, and vendor portals to effectively manage their unique processes.

Conclusion

​​In conclusion, choosing between NetSuite vs Infor CloudSuite LN depends significantly on a company’s specific needs and operational focus. NetSuite excels for small to mid-market firms with global operations, offering strong financial capabilities and localization features that suit diverse industries, including service-centric, distribution-centric, and B2C organizations. Its strengths lie in supporting lighter manufacturing and consumer products, particularly in sectors like health, beauty, fashion, and CPG. However, NetSuite may not be ideal for industrial distributors and manufacturers due to its limitations in pricing and item master capabilities. Despite its robust financial management, the complexity of implementation and potential over-customization issues necessitate careful consideration.

On the other hand, Infor CloudSuite LN is tailored for more intricate manufacturing and distribution operations, making it a superior choice for upper mid-market companies with revenues ranging from $250M to $750M. It offers a comprehensive suite experience similar to SAP and Oracle, featuring enterprise-grade functionalities including PLM, WMS, WFM, BI, and a supply chain collaboration platform. While Infor LN is excellent for discrete manufacturing, it faces challenges with process-centric operations and may not be the best fit for companies requiring extensive global capabilities or those in process manufacturing. Thus, further exploration and evaluation are essential to determine the best-fit ERP solution for a company’s unique needs. Also, seeking assistance from an independent ERP consultant can significantly aid the decision-making process, offering specialized advice and direction tailored to the specific needs of the business.

+

ERP Implementation Failure Recovery

Learn how Frederick Wildman struggled with Microsoft Dynamics 365 ERP implementation failure even after spending over $5M and what options they had for recovery.

FAQs

Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite LN ERP Independent Review 2024

Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite LN ERP Independent Review 2024

Acumatica stands out among three cloud-native ERP vendors particularly focusing on small and medium-sized businesses, alongside NetSuite and Sage Intacct. On the other hand, Infor CloudSuite LN surpasses entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica, Infor CSI, or NetSuite, by delivering mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing intertwined with distribution operations. It is also successful in the upper mid-market, targeting the $250M – $750M revenue range. Acumatica, however, caters well to companies with revenues ranging from $10-100 million, offering limited native localization features yet suitable synergies for global operations. 

Infor LN also provides a superior suite experience akin to SAP and Oracle, featuring enterprise-grade best-of-breed functionalities, including PLM, WMS, WFM, BI, and a supply chain collaboration platform. Whereas, Acumatica’s strength lies in its multi-branch capabilities and tailored support for various business models such as manufacturing, distribution, construction, and field service. 

While Infor LN excels in discrete manufacturing and offers a robust suite experience, it does face certain challenges in specific scenarios such as with process-centric operations for companies. On the other hand, Acumatica serves as an excellent entry-level system for companies transitioning from QuickBooks or smaller point systems seeking seamless cross-functional integration. Choosing between Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite LN requires a detailed examination, and thus, this comparison offers valuable insights for ERP selection projects. Therefore, let’s explore further.

Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite LN ERP Independent Review 2024


The 2025 Digital Transformation Report

Thinking of embarking on a ERP journey and looking for a digital transformation report? Want to learn the best practices of digital transformation? Then, you have come to the right place.

AcumaticaInfor CloudSuite LN
Started in20082006 (when Infor acquired BaaN)
Ownership byEQT Partners in 2019Koch Industries
No. of customers 10,000+1000+

What is Acumatica?

Acumatica is one of three cloud-native ERP solutions particularly similar to NetSuite and Sage Intacct. It has extensive multi-branch capabilities, particularly making it friendlier for retail-centric operations. It can also host multiple business models as part of the same database spanning manufacturing, distribution, construction, and field service. Thus, making it friendlier for diverse manufacturing or distribution-centric operations. Because of its limited global operational capabilities, it primarily targets US and UK-based companies. Thus, positioned as an ideal choice for companies within the $10-100 million revenue range, the majority of Acumatica’s customer base falls under this category.

Desiring a user experience akin to Odoo or Quickbooks, Acumatica ERP also offers versatility to accommodate various business models: distribution, manufacturing, or construction-focused. Although Acumatica has limitations in mature features like dimensional inventory or allocation, it is an excellent initial system for companies looking to streamline inventory or costs. With transactional processing and some mature capabilities, such as batch transactional processing, Acumatica is positioned as a valuable choice for businesses venturing into their first or second ERP solution.

Acumatica ERP is a fit for companies seeking cloud-native experience, particularly emphasizing features like enterprise search and mobility over deeper operational capabilities. Despite its focus on small businesses, Acumatica lacks robust globalization and localization features, catering to a limited number of countries by default. This simplicity, however, benefits smaller companies by avoiding unnecessary layers of multi-entity operations. Although targeting small businesses, Acumatica ERP surpasses Odoo or Zoho with the flexibility of its data layers, necessitating consulting help for implementation. The perceived benefit of Acumatica’s pricing is also a challenge, as it’s notoriously difficult to understand and predict.

What Is Infor CloudSuite LN?

Infor CloudSuite LN is a complete product suite to meet the needs of an enterprise similar to Epicor, SAP, Oracle, or Microsoft. Infor is also perhaps the only vendor after the larger ones that has the capabilities to build best-of-breed architecture akin to SAP, Oracle, and Microsoft. In fact, Infor might have deeper capabilities than Microsoft in some areas with pre-integrated best-of-breed solutions such as Infor WFM and Nexus. Infor is also the only vendor that can provide depth in several industries while not struggling with the transactional processing requirements of large accounts.

Infor LN is ideal for discrete manufacturing companies. It is successful in the upper mid-market, targeting the $250M – $750M revenue range. Positioned for companies surpassing entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica, Infor CSI, or NetSuite, this solution delivers mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing intertwined with distribution operations. Infor LN also provides a superior suite experience akin to SAP and Oracle, featuring enterprise-grade best-of-breed functionalities, including PLM, WMS, WFM, BI, and a supply chain collaboration platform.

While Infor LN excels in discrete manufacturing and offers a robust suite experience, it does face certain challenges in specific scenarios such as with process-centric operations for companies. They might also include business operations such as plastic or chemicals as part of their automotive operations. Despite limitations in broader capabilities compared to other vanilla solutions, recent upgrades acknowledge its broader application in various automotive business models.

Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite LN Comparison

Navigating the choice between Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite LN is a significant decision for businesses particularly looking for operational efficiency and strategic alignment. Thus, this section delves into the comprehensive comparison of Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite LN across various critical dimensions.

AcumaticaInfor CloudSuite LN
Global Operational CapabilitiesLimited multi-entity capabilities.Has sufficient layers of financial hierarchies and global trade compliance functionality pre-baked with products.
Diverse CapabilitiesOperationally rich for smaller companies.Limited focus on certain business models.
Best-of-breed CapabilitiesLimited, relying on third-party add-ons.HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated with LN.
Last-mile Capabilities May require add-ons for specific micro-verticals.Last-mile capabilities along with breadth of capabilities for diversified manufacturing business models.
Operational FunctionalitiesEmphasizes cloud-native experience but offers deeper operational capabilities and integration for smaller operations in fewer countries.Infor LN is a legacy solution with limited cloud-native capabilities such as universal search, mobile experience, etc.
Integration CapabilitiesNatively-integrated WMS functionality, lacks pre-integrated best-of-breed CRM, supports only embedded CRM.Most tools that a manufacturer would require, such as HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated with LN.
Manufacturing Capabilities Suitable for light manufacturing, limited mature capabilities such as allocation and Kanban.This solution delivers mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing and distribution operations.
Pricing ModelConsumption-based, named, and concurrent but requires long-term contracts.Subscription-based
Key Modules1. Financial Management
2. Construction Management
3. CRM
4. Distribution Management
5. Service Management
6. Manufacturing Management 
7. Project Accounting Management
8. Payroll
9. Retail e-Commerce Management
10. Reporting, Dashboard and BI
1. Financials
2. Human Resources
3. Manufacturing Management
4. Inventory Management
5. Purchasing Management
6. Quality Management
7. Sales Management
8. Product Technology

Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite LN Feature Comparison

Both platforms offer a plethora of features and functionalities designed to streamline business operations and enhance efficiency. In this feature comparison, we delve into particularly the distinct capabilities of Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite LN across various critical dimensions, providing insights to aid businesses in making informed decisions regarding their ERP selection. Thus, this section discusses features under each of the following modules, particularly financial management, supply chain management, and manufacturing management.

Financial Management Comparison

In this section, we are discussing a detailed comparison of the financial management capabilities particularly offered by Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite LN. By examining their respective strengths and functionalities, particularly in managing financial processes. Businesses can therefore gain valuable insights to determine the best-suited ERP solution for their financial management needs.

AcumaticaInfor CloudSuite LN
Financial ManagementGeneral LedgerDesigned to support ledgers limited to support one country. Limited multi-ledger capabilities.The General Ledger is the core component of Infor LN Financials, recording all transactions within the application that affect accounting.
Accounts Receivable and Accounts PayableThe AR and AP might be limited to just one country with limited synergies among vendors from different countries.AR manages customer invoices and credit, while AP handles supplier invoices and balance management.
Cash Flow ManagementManages day-to-day transactions, cash balances, funds transfers, and bank account reconciliations for smaller operations.Provides comprehensive forecasting, analysis, and Azure ML-based prediction of cash inflows and outflows.
Currency ManagementCreates estimates for new or existing items, convert to bills of material, production orders.The LN multicurrency systems allow a company to conduct accounting in multiple currencies, calculating and registering amounts in up to three currencies.
Tax ManagementProvides centralized tax configuration, management, and reporting.Tax reporting is part of financial accounting and is limited to one country, so LN’s tax handling in a multicompany structure is similar to that in a single company environment.

Supply Chain Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the supply chain management capabilities of Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite LN, shedding light particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

AcumaticaInfor CloudSuite LN
Supply Chain ManagementWarehouse ManagementProvides real-time inventory visibility and streamlines warehouse operations.Warehousing focuses on managing and replenishing goods within a warehouse, including tasks to report and analyze inventory movements.
Service ManagementEnables quick service needs capture, assignment, and real-time tracking, with features like contract management and appointment schedules.Manages the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of field-based and plant-based products, equipment, and systems.
Inventory Management Simplifies inventory processes with flexible item management and quality traceability.Can support complex inventory types including dedicated inventory masters for MRO or quality components for added granularity and control
Purchase Order ManagementStreamlines procurement processes with policy enforcement and process controls.Can create and modify purchase orders for purchasing goods.
Sales Order ManagementCentrally manages sales activities and tracks prices and inventory.They are utilized to sell and deliver items or services to a sold-to business partner under specific terms and conditions, originating from various sources like Contracts, Quotations, EDI, and Planning.
Requisition ManagementOrganizes complex distribution processes involving multiple products and suppliers.Specifies nonsystem planned requirements for different types of items, including inventory items, cost items, and service items.

Manufacturing Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the manufacturing management capabilities of Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite LN, shedding light, particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

AcumaticaInfor CloudSuite LN
Manufacturing ManagementProduction Planning Assists manufacturers in addressing production demand with the agility to adjust to fluctuating schedules, unforeseen equipment malfunctions, delayed deliveries from suppliers, and other unexpected occurrences affecting operations on the factory floor.One of the most robust production planning capabilities including advanced planning and scheduling capabilities for diverse manufacturing operations
BOM and RoutingLets you efficiently plan and manage inventories, costs and manufacturing processes.It is stored as general item data for LN in Item Production Data (IPD).
Advanced Planning and SchedulingLets you create a more streamlined and accurate production scheduled, better enforce delivery dates and optimize for capacity.Stores scheduling information for projects, allowing you to define project plans along with associated activities and milestones.

Pros of Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite LN

When evaluating ERP solutions, understanding the distinct advantages of Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite LN is crucial. In this section, we are particularly exploring the strengths of Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite LN across various dimensions. Thus, shedding light on their respective capabilities and functionalities.

Acumatica Infor CloudSuite LN
Great 1st or 2nd ERP choice particularly due to limited layers and mature capabilities for larger companies.Ideal for upper mid-market companies or as subsidiary solutions in a two-tier setting for private equity-owned or holding companies.
Accommodates different business models spread in fewer countries under one database.It can support the most complex manufacturing business models, WBS-centric manufacturing, or support for attributes with MRP planning.
Great fit for SMB B2B businesses with complex product mixes.Most tools that make-to manufacturer would require, such as HCM, PLM, data lake, ERP, WMS, TMS, and advanced supply chain planning, are all pre-integrated with LN.
Born in the cloud with consistent design principles across the application.While most smaller solutions might require ad-hoc arrangements for global financial operations, Infor CloudSuite LN has them natively built.

Cons of Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite LN

Just like recognizing strengths is important, it’s also crucial to weigh the specific drawbacks of Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite LN. Therefore, in this section, we will delve into the limitations and challenges associated with Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite LN across various operational and financial dimensions.

Acumatica Infor CloudSuite LN
Limited capabilities when multiple countries with different currencies and sub-ledgers need to be hosted as part of the same solution.The limited focus on certain business models poses the risk of requiring other ERP systems to support complex and diverse business operations such as process manufacturing or metal-centric A&D companies.
Not fit for companies with over $100 million in revenue.Private equity and holding companies requiring global solutions with a tier-2 solution at the subsidiary level might not be the best use of Infor LN’s strengths.
The mobile capabilities are leaner for complex reporting scenarios such as parallel processing or reporting labor.Infor LN is a legacy solution with limited cloud-native capabilities such as universal search, mobile experience, etc
Consumption-based pricing requires consulting expertise to estimate transactions as the pricing is not as predictable.The consulting base and marketplaces are virtually non-existent for Infor LN.
Multiple add-ons such as MES, PLM, and quality, posing integration and communication challenges with the core systems required for complex manufacturing.The integration of Infor LN with MES enhances its capabilities, particularly in complex manufacturing processes.
The last-mile capabilities required for manufacturing or industrial distribution may not as strong as purpose-built solutions such as Infor or Epicor but comparable to vanilla solutions such as SAP S/4 HANA.Verticals such as automotive manufacturing demand deeper integration of PLM, CAD, and vendor portals to effectively manage their unique processes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Acumatica emerges as a compelling choice among cloud-native ERP vendors, catering particularly to small and medium-sized businesses with its versatile capabilities. Positioned alongside NetSuite and Sage Intacct, Acumatica offers flexibility and multi-branch support, making it ideal for companies with revenues ranging from $10-100 million. However, it falls short in providing robust global operational features, limiting its suitability for companies with expansive international operations.

On the other hand, Infor CloudSuite LN surpasses entry-level ERP systems, offering mature capabilities tailored for intricate manufacturing and distribution operations. With a suite experience akin to SAP and Oracle, Infor LN delivers enterprise-grade functionalities across various modules such as PLM, WMS, WFM, and BI. While it excels in discrete manufacturing, it may face challenges in certain scenarios, particularly with process-centric operations.

Ultimately, the choice between Acumatica vs Infor CloudSuite LN hinges on a detailed examination of business requirements and operational needs. Both solutions offer distinct advantages and limitations, making this comparison an invaluable resource for organizations embarking on ERP selection projects. Thus, further exploration and evaluation are essential to determine the best-fit ERP solution for a company’s unique needs. Also, seeking assistance from an independent ERP consultant can significantly aid the decision-making process, offering specialized advice and direction tailored to the specific needs of the business.

+

ERP Implementation Failure Recovery

Learn how Frederick Wildman struggled with Microsoft Dynamics 365 ERP implementation failure even after spending over $5M and what options they had for recovery.

FAQs

HubSpot CRM Independent Review 2024

HubSpot CRM Independent Review 2024

Integrated CRM Suite focused on upstream marketing. HubSpot CRM is a leading choice particularly for SMB companies consolidating siloed sales and marketing communication and collaboration apps, seeking omnichannel traceability across customer acquisition channels. Whether third-party or natively hosted, HubSpot covers most major customer acquisition channels including email, web, text, and social, HubSpot also has basic capabilities for service-centric use cases, allowing companies to manage their customer service workflows. It’s ideal for B2B companies that are heavily content-driven, and also interested in driving and tracing business and channels through content-centric marketing initiatives. Overall, HubSpot has a comparable CRM suite with leading CRM vendors offering major components such as Sales, Marketing, and Service Cloud.

Comprehensive Yet Limited. Hugely favored by marketers, HubSpot covers several grounds from an upstream marketing perspective; however, companies heavy on operational and transactional use cases for their sales and marketing operations might find it limiting. These use cases are especially common in industries where multiple customer personas may exist, without traditional transactions such as selling a product or service. Overall, companies with depth in operational use cases or CX operations maturity may want to use HubSpot with another transactional CRM such as MS Dynamics 365 CE or Salesforce CRM.

Ideal for Prescriptive Sales Processes. While it allows for some degree of customizability, the capabilities with core and custom objects are substantially restrictive with limitations such as the inability to have true relational parent-child relationships among custom objects, a requirement of primary display property for each custom object, and the inability to rename core objects as per industry nomenclature. Complex use cases would particularly require substantial ad-hoc arrangements, causing user experience issues. Overall, HubSpot is a fit for companies with complex marketing automation needs while simpler with their operational CRM needs.

HubSpot CRM Independent Review 2024


The 2025 Digital Transformation Report

Thinking of embarking on a ERP journey and looking for a digital transformation report? Want to learn the best practices of digital transformation? Then, you have come to the right place.

Key Review Insights of HubSpot CRM

1. Flexible Pricing

Although HubSpot provides a much cheaper model for smaller companies, including a free version of CRM, the pricing may be steep for add-ons and features that would otherwise be included with other CRMs in their basic version. HubSpot’s marketing, sales, customer support, and operational hubs start at $45 per month each, while the CMS hub starts at $23 per month. However, significant savings can be achieved by bundling them together. The Starter Bundle, which also includes all the hubs, starts at $30 per month with annual billing.

2. Complicated Pricing Tiers

One of HubSpot’s advantages is its flexible pricing. However, that could also be harder to understand and estimate, potentially confusing. Understanding long-term costs and comparison with competitive offerings might also require the help of a consulting firm expert in software contract negotiation. Just like most SaaS vendors, HubSpot also separates pricing for individual products and product suites. Additionally, within these already complex plans, there are extra costs based on factors such as contact list size or the number of internal users.

3. Lack of Customer Support for Free Plan

Users of the free version have access to the online knowledge base and also HubSpot community. However, running your operations without professional and qualified support might be risky. Unfortunately, HubSpot CRM does not provide live chat support for free plan users, which could also have showcased their award-winning customer support. Free plan subscribers also lack access to email support, leaving them to rely solely on DIY resources. While it’s hard to criticize the lack of customer service when it’s free, it would be beneficial to have more support options than what’s currently available.

4. A Scalable Solution

The CMS, workflow engine, and marketing automation use cases particularly scale pretty well. It also has fairly robust reporting capabilities, allowing you to trace your entire marketing funnel. The list views could also accommodate multiple views, and the playbooks could include the custom sales process. The forms can particularly help in gathering data from multiple customer personas across channel types. Unlike smaller marketing automation solutions that might be limited with their bundle offerings, with limited layers for workflow and webhooks, HubSpot is comprehensive and scalable for marketing automation use cases.

5. Extended Functionality

HubSpot CRM is powerful on its own but also integrates well with other business apps and tools. This allows you to enhance the platform’s functionality with over 1,400 applications. These integrations are especially friendly for upstream marketing use cases where leads must be captured inside the CRM automatically based on criteria and a workflow must be triggered to automatically nurture prospects. Popular integrations particularly include Gmail, Google Calendar, Facebook Ads, Zoom, Slack, Canva, Eventbrite, Shopify, Stripe, and SurveyMonkey. You can explore the HubSpot Marketplace to find apps across various categories, such as workflow integrations, marketing, productivity, finance, and more. 

6. Enterprise-grade Capabilities

While HubSpot offers one of the best and most well-known free CRMs on the market, it may not meet the needs of larger organizations. These enterprises would require a slightly more scalable data and process model, generally included with other leading CRMs such as Salesforce. The enterprise-grade capabilities would also require seamless movement of changes across environments, which is a known limitation with HubSpot. Changes from staging to production must be promoted manually, particularly posing maintenance and scalability issues with larger organizations with relatively custom requirements.

7. Limited Custom Configuration Options

While HubSpot is fairly scalable for the marketing automation function, the data and process model is not scalable for other operational use cases. The core and custom objects both have substantial limitations. While they expose webhooks to include external logic as part of their workflows, the workflow’s design is primarily to chain relatively asynchronous operations such as marketing automation use cases, or actions taken based on lead registration.

They are not as suitable for transactional use cases with synchronous user interactions such as maintaining complex calculations branching to several error events, requiring user feedback. The kind of use cases that would be applicable for sales comp maintenance or maintaining customer experience workflows around assets that may be part of the sales cycle such as buildings, residents, or patients, etc. These use cases would be especially relevant for industries such as non-profit, public sector, insurance, or financial services

8. Requires Annual Commitment 

If you’re signing up for a paid HubSpot subscription, you’re committing to at least a year, even with monthly billing. Like many CRM solutions, HubSpot also offers a discount for paying annually in advance. However, the monthly billing cycle still requires an annual contract, meaning you’re not paying for the year upfront. If you decide HubSpot isn’t right for your business after three months, you’ll still need to pay the remainder of your contract.

Key Features of HubSpot CRM

Marketing Hub

HubSpot’s marketing software enables you to attract and convert. Specifically, it helps attract the right audience, convert visitors into customers, and run complete inbound marketing campaigns efficiently and cost-effectively. With the HubSpot Marketing Hub, you’ll have all your marketing tools and data in one place. You can publish blogs, build your search authority, track and manage ads, oversee social media channels, create effective landing pages, and also monitor your progress. It’s a comprehensive solution for all your marketing needs.

PlansPriceMarketing ContactsSeatsAdditional Seats
Free Tools$0N/AN/AN/A
Marketing Hub Starter$15/month/seat1000N/AN/A
Starter Customer Platform$15/month/seat1000N/AN/A
Marketing Hub Professional$800/month20003Starts at $50/month
Marketing Hub Enterprise$3600/month100005Starts at $75/month
Sales Hub

HubSpot’s sales software is particularly designed to help your teams close more deals, build stronger relationships, and manage their pipeline efficiently. With features like email templates, email tracking, and call recording, you can build stronger customer connections. HubSpot also helps your team deliver a cohesive message, and you can equip them with branded quotes and sales management playbooks for clarity on next steps. HubSpot’s Sales Hub allows you to:

  • Enable prospects to schedule appointments that sync automatically with your calendar
  • Automate your sales process with a personal touch
  • Direct live chat conversations to the appropriate salesperson for better customer relationships
  • Manage your pipeline with a single click, ensuring no important deals are missed
PlansPrice
Free Tools$0
Sales Hub Starter$20/month/seat
Starter Customer Platform$20/month/seat
Sales Hub Professional$100/month/seat
Sales Hub Enterprise$150/month/seat
Service Hub

Once your team is operating efficiently, it’s time to focus on customer satisfaction. This means not just converting prospects but genuinely focusing on their needs. The Service Hub allows you to:

  • Create a sophisticated help desk and ticket automation system
  • Build a detailed online knowledge base for customer self-service
  • Utilize smart live chat that directs customers to the right place and people
  • Integrate team emails, live chat, Facebook Messenger, and more into a universal inbox for complete communication visibility
PlanPrices
Free Tools$0
Service Hub Starter$20/month/seat
Starter Customer Platform$20/month/seat
Service Hub Professional$100/month/seat
Service Hub Enterprise$130/month/seat
Content Hub

Content Hub offers a range of features particularly designed to simplify and elevate your content creation efforts. Centralizing your content management, and also providing your team with easy access to the latest assets and ensuring a cohesive content strategy across all channels. Some of the features are:

  • Generate multiple content formats from a single blog post with the content remix
  • Streamline website development and blog post creation with a scalable CMS and AI blog writer
  • Capture leads with lead capture and automate content creation and reporting with HubSpot AI
  • Optimize performance and drive growth with SEO recommendations and advanced analytics and reporting
PlanPrice SeatsAdditional Seats
Free Tools$0N/AN/A
Content Hub Starter$20/month/seatN/AN/A
Starter Customer Platform$20/month/seatN/AN/A
Content Hub Professional$500/month3Starts at $50/month
Content Hub Enterprise$1500/month5Starts at $75/month

Pros and Cons of HubSpot CRM

ProsCons
The platform itself is intuitive and easy to use.No true parent-child relationship with custom objects inside HubSpot.
Many free tools are available for new business owners.The free plan is substantially limited with a substantial price increase for advanced features.
AI-powered writing tools are available to improve marketing and sales efforts.It gets expensive very quickly which might not fit the budget for small businesses.
Seamless integration with other HubSpot hubs.The industry-specific integrations might be limited such as integration with emergency communication platforms requiring CAP compliance or SOS. These integrations are especially relevant to industries with facilities such as non-profit or public sector, limiting the omnichannel traceability and the use of HubSpot native marketing automation engine.
Detailed HubSpot support and community resources are available to navigate through the CRM.The mobile application is inefficient in tracking the status of customer requests.

Conclusion

HubSpot CRM stands out as a comprehensive solution particularly for small to mid-sized businesses seeking streamlined integration of customer-centric workflows. With its emphasis on sales, service, CMS, and also marketing automation, HubSpot offers a user-friendly platform that can be tailored to meet the unique needs of various industries. While it may not offer the depth of functionalities found in certain other CRM systems like Salesforce, its adaptability, and versatility prove advantageous, especially for content-focused B2B companies requiring centralized management of digital marketing and sales channels. However, organizations unfamiliar with robust data and process governance may face challenges in leveraging HubSpot’s full potential.

Despite its flexible pricing options and free tools, HubSpot’s pricing tiers can be complex and overwhelming for some users, potentially leading them to opt for the free plan or seek alternatives. The absence of live chat support for free plan users and limited customization options may also deter potential customers. Nevertheless, HubSpot’s seamless integration with other business tools, an extensive marketplace of integrations, and robust customer support resources make it a compelling choice for businesses looking to streamline their operations and drive growth. Companies may also benefit from consulting an independent CRM consultant who can provide valuable insights and assessments to determine if HubSpot CRM aligns seamlessly with their organizational requirements.

+

ERP Implementation Failure Recovery

Learn how Frederick Wildman struggled with Microsoft Dynamics 365 ERP implementation failure even after spending over $5M and what options they had for recovery.

FAQs

SAP S/4 HANA ERP Independent Review 2024

SAP S/4 HANA ERP Independent Review 2024

SAP S/4 HANA is SAP’s flagship product and one of the few viable options for large enterprises, especially those with the transactional demands of Fortune 500. Compared to its counterpart, ECC, SAP S/4 HANA features a modern architecture that merges best-of-breed capabilities with enterprise-grade SaaS offerings, while maintaining tightly integrated ERP processes at its core. This suite includes leading solutions like SAP SuccessFactors for HCM, SAP Hybris for commerce, SAP EWM for WMS, Ariba for P2P, and also Concur for T&E management. Unlike other market solutions that treat these processes as ERP modules, SAP S/4 HANA ensures seamless adoption and delivers a superior omnichannel experience, particularly important for HR processes across various devices.

SAP S/4 HANA is also favored by enterprise-grade companies for its ability to handle large transaction volumes and meet stringent governance and traceability requirements. It is particularly well-suited for product-centric enterprises needing mature capabilities such as MRP and allocation. Additionally, for enterprises needing advanced eCommerce platforms with components like CDP or CPQ systems, SAP S/4 HANA offers essential functionalities. It is also highly effective for multinational companies needing unified databases for easier reconciliation.

However, SAP S/4 HANA may not be ideal for companies transitioning from smaller ERP systems or QuickBooks, as it requires a certain level of IT maturity for successful implementation. Although it has deep ERP capabilities, the suite experience might fall short compared to prescriptive platforms like Infor LN or QAD. Moreover, reliance on third-party add-ons for integrations can lead to vendor conflicts, increased budgets, and higher implementation risks. Despite its cloud advancements, SAP still trails behind some competitors. Nonetheless, the following sections will delve into the key features, advantages, and drawbacks of SAP S/4 HANA.

SAP S/4 HANA ERP Independent Review 2024


The 2025 Digital Transformation Report

Thinking of embarking on a ERP journey and looking for a digital transformation report? Want to learn the best practices of digital transformation? Then, you have come to the right place.

Key Review Insights of SAP S/4 HANA

1. Pre-integrated Best-of-breed Capabilities

The best-of-breed software, such as SAP Commerce Cloud, Hybris, Concur, SuccessFactors, and EWM, is pre-integrated with SAP S/4 HANA, potentially saving millions of dollars with integration. The best-of-breed architecture can also support the business model of large distributors, irrespective of whether they are a traditional distributor or a combination of 3PL, which typically has a different warehouse and TMS architecture than traditional distributors.

2. Financial Traceability for Large Global Companies

 It is one of the most intuitive ERP products for particularly such complex operations with its transactional maps capabilities built with the products, making debugging complex financial enterprises easier. SAP S/4 HANA is also capable of building end-to-end traceability of SOX compliance workflows with every document and transaction, which is often required by large complex financial organizations.

3. The Power of HANA

Because of the power of HANA, SAP S/4 HANA can process very complex MRP runs with product models containing millions of serial numbers and SKUs and the ability to process millions of costing and scheduling entries much faster than most ERP systems.

4. Superior Financial Control and Governance

Some of the capabilities include several financial hierarchies particularly to support complex, global organizations without requiring ad-hoc arrangements for global traceability or consolidations. Fortune 500 organizations with shared service models spread in multiple countries would appreciate the financial traceability that is built at the document level.

5. Limited Cloud Version Capabilities

The cloud version is behind with development particularly in comparison to the on-prem variant. Equally limited are the marketplace options compared to other competing solutions. Despite advanced financial traceability and technical capabilities, the functional capabilities are not as rich as with its on-prem version.

6. Overwhelming for Smaller Companies

The complex workflows built to support the processes of large, complex organizations may particularly overwhelm organizations seeking simpler solutions without unnecessary processes and approval flows.

7. Adoption Issues for Service-centric Verticals

Unlike product-centric organizations, service-centric verticals don’t have as financially embedded transactions, causing efficiency issues with teams if their workflows were to be managed inside complex ERP systems such as SAP S/4 HANA.

8. Ability to Handle Large Workloads

Our simple test of HANA’s capabilities with 100K serialized goods receipt found it to be faster than most systems out there. SAP S/4 HANA could process it in under 22 seconds, while Oracle cloud ERP took more than 18 mins for the same test. This is especially friendly for businesses with complex products aiming to run their consolidated global MRP runs in one system.

Key Features of SAP S/4 HANA

Financial Management

In this section, we explore and analyze the financial management module of SAP S/4 HANA, shedding light particularly on their features and capabilities.

Financial ManagementFeatures
Overhead Cost AccountingRecords journal entries, tracks costs by cost center, and also defines each center’s output through activity types.
Product Cost ManagementAnalyzes costs at each stage of the value chain using an integrated system, and also aligns quantity flow from logistics with financial values.
Profitability and Cost AnalysisHelps assess the profitability of the market segments and cost objects and also provides real-time contribution margins.
Predictive AccountingUtilizes data from sales orders to forecast future outcomes before actual journal entries are made.
Investment ManagementFacilitates planning, budgeting, commitment tracking, and also monitoring actual costs.
General LedgerPerforms the necessary tasks of financial accounting.
Asset AccountingManages and monitors tangible fixed assets.
Revenue and Cost AccountingIdentifies revenues and also calculates contract liabilities and contract assets.
Inventory AccountingHelps assess and oversee the material and work-in-process inventory according to legal regulations.
Accounts PayableSubmits the invoices created in purchasing.
Accounts ReceivableRecords and manages accounts receivable data of all customers.
Settlement ManagementEncompasses several settlement processes, particularly including those integrated into the order-to-cash cycle or procure-to-pay scenarios.
Human Resources

In this section, we explore and analyze the human resources module of SAP S/4 HANA, shedding light particularly on their features and capabilities.

Human ResourcesFeatures
Organizational Structure ManagementHelps create, maintain, and also restructure organizational structures.
Time Sheet ManagementHelps record and manage time data of all employees.
Integration with External HR SystemSupports integration with SAP SuccessFactors Employee Central to duplicate employee and organizational data.
Manufacturing Management

In this section, we explore and analyze the manufacturing management module of SAP S/4 HANA, shedding light particularly on their features and capabilities.

Manufacturing ManagementFeatures
Just-in-Time Supply to ProductionEnables material replenishment for manufacturing and assembly from either an internal location or an external supplier.
Just-in-Time Supply to CustomerCovers JIT processes from the perspective of the supplier.
Production BOM ManagementManages bills of material, assigns them to the plants, monitors multilevel BOM assignments, and can also find BOM for a component.
Master Recipe/Routing ManagementEnables modeling of the capabilities of the manufacturing equipment and also monitors their performance.
Material Requirements PlanningHelps ensure the availability of materials and perform basic production planning.
Production Scheduling Helps change the production plan particularly according to the capacity shortage, and demands in time and quantity.
Demand-driven ReplenishmentHelps plan and also manage supply chain based on customer demand.
Production Control and ExecutionHelps dispatch production operations and also make all necessary preparations for production execution.
Repetitive ManufacturingHelps plan and organize production particularly in repetitive manufacturing and flow manufacturing environments.
KanbanHelps manage production and also material flow based on physical material stock in
production.
Quality Planning, Inspection, and ImprovementHelps ensure the quality of the products and processes, also prepares and executes quality inspections, and provides tools to improve them.
Maintenance, Repair, and OverhaulSupports processes for particularly maintenance and repair during the product lifecycle.
Pegging and Distribution for Project ManufacturingHelps enhance project manufacturing efficiency in an engineer-to-order setting particularly by utilizing shared common materials across various projects.
Sourcing and Procurement

In this section, we explore and analyze the sourcing and procurement module of SAP S/4 HANA, shedding light particularly on their features and capabilities.

Sourcing and ProcurementFeatures
Real-time Reporting and MonitoringProvides a set of actionable cards: both operational and also analytical which can be navigated to find detailed information and resolve.
Spend VisibilityVisualizes the daily work in different charts and by criteria.
Purchase Contract ManagementHelps manage the long-term purchase contracts with suppliers particularly regarding the supply of materials or performance of services.
Self-service RequisitioningHelps create, manage, and also track the orders.
Requirement ProcessingAssists in acquiring a specific quantity of a material or service particularly to ensure availability at a designated time.
Purchase Order ProcessingAssists in instructing an external supplier to deliver a specific quantity of a material or service particularly to ensure availability at a designated time.
Service Purchasing and RecordingManage and record the purchase orders of external service providers.
Invoice ManagementHelps with processing purchase orders and goods receipt, along with integration with business networks to collaborate with suppliers.
Supplier ManagementHelps with supplier classification, segmentation, and evaluation.
Supply Chain Management

In this section, we explore and analyze the supply chain management module of SAP S/4 HANA, shedding light particularly on their features and capabilities.

Supply Chain ManagementFeatures
Goods MovementHelps in managing goods issues, goods receipt, and reservations.
Inventory Analytics and Control Helps in evaluating and displaying stock information along with checking analytics reports.
Physical Inventory Helps in recording the actual stock levels of materials.
Returnable Packaging LogisticsHelps with the exchange of reusable packaging materials with business partners.
Empties ManagementHelps in mapping the administration and deposit requirements of returnable packages.
Delivery ManagementHelps in managing the inbound and outbound deliveries.
Transportation ManagementHelps in supporting the entire transportation chain.
Warehouse ManagementHelps maintain optimized warehouse operations by supporting and managing real-time transparency into material movements.
Stock Room ManagementProvides capabilities for warehouses with low complexity.
Available to PromiseHelps in configuring, executing, and monitoring the availability checks.
Business Process Scheduling Helps plan dates for different logistics activities involved in various business processes.

Pros and Cons of SAP S/4 HANA

ProsCons
Large complex financial organizations require end-to-end traceability of SOX compliance workflows, also built with each document and transaction with SAP S/4 HANA.The data model is designed for large, complex organizations, and also overwhelming for smaller organizations outgrowing QuickBooks or smaller ERP systems.
The best-of-breed software, such as SAP Commerce Cloud, Hybris, Concur, SuccessFactors, and EWM, is pre-integrated with the SAP S/4 HANA, potentially saving millions of dollars with integration.The pre-baked last-mile capabilities specific to micro-industries might be limited, requiring either development or add-ons on top of the core solution.
Enterprise Product Designed for Product-centric Companies. The item master, product model, and warehouse architecture can accommodate the needs of most manufacturing business models.Despite advanced technical capabilities such as AI, the last mile industry capabilities and operational functionality are limited in their cloud ERP version.
SAP S/4 HANA could process more than 100K serialized goods receipts within 22 secs, while Oracle Cloud ERP took more than 18 mins for the same test.The third-party integration options, such as integration with eCommerce platforms, POS systems, channel connectivity, etc, may require substantial development efforts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, SAP remains a dominant force in the ERP market, particularly favored by enterprise-grade companies due to its robust SAP S/4 HANA offering. This solution integrates leading products like SAP SuccessFactors, SAP Hybris, SAP EWM, Ariba, and Concur, particularly catering to diverse enterprise needs. With strengths in handling large transaction volumes, governance, and traceability requirements, SAP S/4 HANA excels in product-centric enterprises, offering mature capabilities such as MRP and allocation.

However, it may pose challenges for smaller organizations lacking sufficient IT maturity, and SAP’s SMB presence faces uncertainties. Despite notable progress in cloud offerings, SAP trails competitors in this arena. Nevertheless, the key review insights highlight the pre-integrated best-of-breed capabilities, financial traceability, and scalability for large workloads offered by SAP S/4 HANA. While SAP S/4 HANA presents compelling advantages for enterprise-grade companies with complex operational needs, smaller organizations and those prioritizing cloud solutions may find it less suitable. Understanding these pros and cons is crucial for businesses considering SAP S/4 HANA as their ERP solution. Also, companies may benefit from consulting an independent ERP consultant who can provide valuable insights and assessments to determine if SAP S/4 HANA aligns seamlessly with their organizational requirements.

+

ERP Implementation Failure Recovery

Learn how Frederick Wildman struggled with Microsoft Dynamics 365 ERP implementation failure even after spending over $5M and what options they had for recovery.

FAQs

FREE RESOURCE

2025 Digital Transformation Report

This digital transformation report summarizes our annual research on ERP and digital transformation trends and forecasts for the year 2025. 

Send this to a friend