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The biggest advantage of MS Dynamics 365 BC is its consulting ecosystem and community support, which is much bigger than most ERP ecosystems. Whereas, Epicor Kinetic is positioned for companies in the $50M – $750M revenue range and it has a strong customer base within this bracket. Epicor Kinetic also excels in catering to manufacturing companies with formal processes. Its distinctive data model and BOM structure, coupled with robust planning capabilities for dimensional inventory, make it ideal for industries like metal, fasteners, fabrication, aerospace, automotive, and medical devices.
Whereas, Dynamics 365 BC is ideal for companies with diversified, global operations aspiring to keep all of their entities in one database for easier reconciliation and tracking. Thus, choosing between Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic requires a detailed examination, and this comparison offers valuable insights for ERP selection projects. Let’s delve deeper into the specifics.
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| MS Dynamics 365 BC | Epicor Kinetic | |
| Started in | 2018 (Previously NAV) | Rebranding in 2021 (legacy version existed for more than 20 years) |
| Ownership by | Microsoft | CD&R, over $57B in assets, and CVC with over $220B in assets |
| No. of customers | 60,000+ | 23,000+ |
What Is MS Dynamics 365 BC?
Rearchitected with cloud-native technologies, Microsoft Dynamics 365 BC is the SMB solution from Microsoft, globalized and also localized in most countries with a consulting base available virtually in any country or language. Microsoft Dynamics 365 BC serves as a logical choice for companies outgrowing particularly 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 Dynamics 365 BC would be $30M-$250 in revenue and a higher revenue band for companies that might use MS Dynamics 365 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 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 the add-ons might allow companies to use Microsoft Dynamics 365 BC 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 Epicor Kinetic?
Epicor Kinetic, their flagship solution, particularly excels in catering to manufacturing companies with formal processes. Its distinctive data model and BOM structure, coupled with robust planning capabilities for dimensional inventory, make it ideal for industries like metal, fasteners, fabrication, aerospace, automotive, and medical devices. Epicor Kinetic’s versatile data model addresses complex planning needs for companies particularly with diverse business models, encompassing manufacturing, distribution, and construction. Moreover, its advanced features support WBS-centric processes, enabling efficient management of large manufacturing programs with centralized cost tracking.
Epicor Kinetic boasts a sophisticated data model, surpassing entry-level ERP systems particularly like Acumatica or NetSuite. Tailored for companies advancing beyond basic transactional processing, it targets those in need of mature manufacturing capabilities such as MRP, allocation, and scheduling. Implementation success with Epicor Kinetic also requires substantial expertise in process and data coding, making it unsuitable for founder-led companies lacking seasoned operational and financial executives with ERP experience. Given its rigid revision model, companies with suboptimal SKU and BOM models may face challenges during implementation, emphasizing the need for robust internal capabilities and advisory support.
Epicor Kinetic has also undergone noteworthy technological advancements, adopting a look and feel reminiscent of Microsoft Dynamics ERP systems. Despite its legacy status, it supports mature cloud capabilities like enterprise search. Positioned for companies particularly in the $50M – $750M revenue range, it has a strong customer base within this bracket. Current limitations also include its field service capabilities, which are being addressed through an acquired add-on, and its finance and accounting module, not as tightly integrated as other modern cloud-native solutions.
Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic Comparison
Navigating the choice between Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic 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 BC vs Epicor Kinetic across various critical dimensions.
| Dynamics 365 BC | Epicor Kinetic | |
| Global Operational Capabilities | Supported and actively installed in most countries globally. | The limited number of global and financial layers would require inefficient workarounds. |
| Diverse Capabilities | Supports multiple industries and business models. | The versatile data model addresses complex planning needs for companies with diverse business models. |
| Best-of-breed Capabilities | Pre-integrated with Microsoft CRM and field service but relies on third-party add-ons for additional capabilities. | Limited, relying on third party add-ons for field service and quality module. |
| Last-mile Capabilities | May require add-ons for specific micro-verticals. | Pre-packaged capabilities for metal, automotive, and aerospace verticals. |
| Operational Functionalities | Emphasizes core ERP capabilities, relying on partner add-ons for industry-specific capabilities. | Equipped with strong mixed-mode manufacturing capabilities, and strong WBS-centric processes. |
| Integration Capabilities | Common data model, power platform and automate along with MS Azure platform for additional development and integration. | With out-of-the-box MES functionality, particularly appeals to smaller companies seeking pre-integrated Industry 4.0 capabilities. |
| Manufacturing Capabilities | Lighter manufacturing capabilities. | Manufacturing organizations with formal processes and revision numbers will relate more. |
| Pricing Model | Per named user, per month. (True consumption-based) | Per user, monthly. |
| Key Modules | 1. Financial Management 2. CRM 3. Distribution Management 4. Supply Chain Management 5. Project Accounting Management 6. Inventory Management 7. Reporting, Dashboard and BI | 1. Financial Management 2. Supply Chain Management 3. Production Management 4. Risk and Compliance 5. Customer Relationship Management 6. Project Management 7. Cloud Business Platform 8. Business Intelligence and Analytics 9. Planning and Scheduling 10. Services and Assets 11. Omnichannel Sales 12. Product Management 13. Global Business Management |
Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic 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 BC vs Epicor Kinetic 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 BC vs Epicor Kinetic. 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.
| Dynamics 365 BC | Epicor Kinetic | ||
| Financial Management | General Ledger | Initiates general ledger postings, chart of accounts, general journals, VAT facilities, recurring journals, and source codes. | It is a customizable, secure core component of its Financial Management suite. Offers accounting controls, seamless integration with other financial modules, global capabilities, and also advanced reporting tools. |
| Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable | Automates accounts receivables and payables and facilitates seamless reconciliation of accounts for swift and precise financial reporting. | Includes AR (managing invoicing, credit, cash, and customer payments) and AP (automating invoice processing, supporting multiple payment methods, and tracking expenses). | |
| Cash Flow Management | Provides comprehensive forecasting, analysis, and Azure ML-based prediction of cash inflows and outflows. | Features automated cash handling, bank reconciliation, multi-currency and multi-bank management, integration with other financial modules, and also real-time reporting and analysis. | |
| Currency Management | Manages multiple currencies across the system, including payables and receivables, general ledger reports, resource and inventory items, and bank accounts. | Simplifies multi-currency transactions, automates exchange rate management, integrates with other financial modules, ensures global compliance, and provides real-time reporting and analysis. | |
| Tax Management | Offers automated, configurable, and scalable tax determination, calculation, and settlement capabilities, accommodating complex tax scenarios across various business requirements. | Automates sales and use tax calculations, integrates with financial modules, supports multiple jurisdictions, provides real-time updates, and simplifies reporting and filing. |
Supply Chain Management Comparison
In this comparison, we explore and analyze the supply chain management capabilities of Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic, shedding light particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.
| MS Dynamics 365 BC | Epicor Kinetic | ||
| Supply Chain Management | Warehouse Management | Can 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. | Optimizes operations with real-time inventory tracking, advanced material management, seamless integration with other systems, and configurable workflows. |
| Service Management | Service management is not built as part of the core platform but a pre-integrated specialized app is available for field service operations. | Streamlines operations with maintenance management, service contract handling, case management, RMA tracking, and real-time insights for efficient equipment upkeep and customer support. | |
| 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. | Optimizes processes with detailed tracking, smart planning, advanced units of measure, automated purchase contracts, and seamless integration with supply chain and production modules. | |
| Purchase Order Management | Manages purchase orders, including blanket orders and related processes. | Streamlines procurement with tools for supplier negotiations, order tracking, automated processes, and supplier relationship management. | |
| Sales Order Management | Manages sales orders, including blanket sales orders and associated processes. | Streamlines sales with features for order tracking, automation, estimating, cross-functional collaboration, and eCommerce integration. | |
| Requisition Management | Organizes complex distribution processes involving multiple products and suppliers. | Automates procurement with real-time budget checks, vendor support, standing and blanket orders, multi-level approvals, and effective expenditure management. |
Manufacturing Management Comparison
In this comparison, we explore and analyze the manufacturing management capabilities of MS Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic, shedding light, particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.
| MS Dynamics 365 BC | Epicor Kinetic | ||
| Manufacturing Management | Production Planning | Enables the creation of production orders, definition of routings, allocation of resources, and optimization of production sequences, ensuring seamless operations. | Enhances manufacturing efficiency with Master Production Scheduling, Material Requirements Planning, Advanced Planning and Scheduling, Job Management, Lean Manufacturing, Quality Management, and Advanced MES for real-time monitoring. |
| 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. | Streamlines production with multi-level BOM management, dynamic BOM creation, CAD and PLM integration, strong change control, centralized routing management, detailed routing steps, real-time adjustments, and precise cost and time estimation. | |
| 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. | Enhances production efficiency with automated scheduling, flexible capacity planning, real-time adjustments, what-if scenarios, integrated material constraints, and multi-site management. |
Pros of Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic
When evaluating ERP solutions, understanding the distinct advantages of Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic is crucial. In this section, we are particularly exploring the strengths of Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic across various dimensions. Thus, shedding light on their respective capabilities and functionalities.
| Dynamics 365 BC | Epicor Kinetic |
| Natively supports global regions and localizations where Acumatica, Epicor, or Infor might have limited support. | Epicor has a very similar look and feel to Microsoft ERP products, providing you with the same experience but with much deeper last-mile capabilities. |
| Unlike several products it has support for several European, Asian, and African countries where most products might struggle. | 90% of the capabilities required by verticals such as metal, automotive, and aerospace are pre-packaged with the core platform. |
| The data model is friendlier for FMCG and distribution companies requiring native support for complex features such as bin tracking or license plate support. | Great fit for manufacturing organizations that follow formal manufacturing processes with revision numbers. |
| The product has been completely rearchitected using the cloud-native architecture. Cloud ERP capabilities are stronger than those of competing products. | Although a legacy product, it includes mature cloud capabilities such as enterprise search and transactional maps for end-to-end transactional traceability. |
Cons of Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic
Just like recognizing strengths is important, it’s also crucial to weigh the specific drawbacks of Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic. Therefore, in this section, we will delve into the limitations and challenges associated with Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic across various operational and financial dimensions.
| MS Dynamics 365 BC | Epicor Kinetic |
| Only fit for FMCG-centric distributors. The industrial distribution would require add-ons to support capabilities. | The data layers are highly detailed, requiring substantial consulting help to be successful with the product. |
| 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. | The limited focus on certain business models poses the risk of requiring other ERP systems to support complex and diverse business operations. |
| The financial traceability may not be as intuitive for global, publicly traded non-profit companies. | The field service capabilities are not as embedded and proven as some of the other products. |
| The data layers are highly detailed, requiring substantial consulting help to be successful. | Epicor takes a suite approach to its products while selling directly to its customers. This limits the overall consulting and marketplace penetration. |
| Microsoft doesn’t offer any support or control to its smaller products, leading to ERP implementation issues. | Requires ad-hoc arrangements for larger mid-market companies with more than three financial hierarchies. |
| 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. | Finance and accounting layers are not going to be as strong as some of the other products. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between Dynamics 365 BC vs Epicor Kinetic hinges on the specific needs and operational focus of a company. Dynamics 365 BC shines in its global reach, cloud-native architecture, and robust support ecosystem, thus making it a top choice for SMBs with diversified and global operations. Its strengths lie in financial management, seamless integration with Microsoft’s ecosystem, and also adaptability to various industries. However, it may require additional customization and third-party add-ons for companies with complex manufacturing or distribution needs, potentially increasing implementation time and costs.
On the other hand, Epicor Kinetic is a formidable option for manufacturing-centric organizations, particularly in industries with formal processes and complex BOM structures like aerospace, automotive, and metal fabrication. Its deep manufacturing capabilities, coupled with advanced planning and scheduling tools, cater well to larger mid-market companies. However, its reliance on detailed data models and a more rigid structure may pose challenges for companies lacking in-house ERP expertise.
Both systems have their strengths and limitations, so businesses should carefully evaluate their specific needs and growth aspirations to determine the most suitable ERP solution. Also, seeking assistance from an independent ERP consultant can significantly aid the decision-making process. To get a 360-degree view of feature comparisons, it’s essential to explore not only Dynamics 365 BC vs. Epicor Kinetic but also insights from other analyses such as Dynamics 365 BC vs. NetSuite, SAP S/4 HANA, Acumatica, MS Dynamics 365 F&O, Oracle Cloud ERP, Infor CloudSuite LN, and Infor CloudSuite M3.
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