Epicor Kinetic vs IFS ERP Independent Review 2024

Last Updated on October 9, 2024 by Shrestha Dash

Epicor Kinetic boasts a sophisticated data model, particularly surpassing entry-level ERP systems like Acumatica or NetSuite. On the other hand, similar to other upper mid-market ERP solutions like Infor LN, QAD, or Sage X3, IFS boasts extensive functionality that is tailored for companies heavy in asset and field service operations. Epicor Kinetic is positioned for companies in the $50M – $750M revenue range and it also has a strong customer base within this bracket. Whereas, IFS is positioned for companies within the $100M – $1B revenue range, with a significant portion nearing the $1B mark.

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. On the other hand, IFS boasts robust global, multi-entity capabilities and operates as a cloud-native solution. IFS not only delivers functional capabilities but also efficiently manages the transactional workload of upper-mid-market companies.

Epicor Kinetic is tailored for companies advancing beyond basic transactional processing, it targets those in need of mature manufacturing capabilities such as MRP, allocation, and scheduling. On the other hand, IFS appeals to enterprises seeking mature, industry-specific capabilities, reducing the need for extensive development with vanilla ERP systems like SAP or Oracle. Therefore, choosing between Epicor Kinetic vs IFS requires a detailed examination, and this comparison offers valuable insights for ERP selection projects. Let’s delve deeper into the specifics.

Epicor Kinetic vs IFS ERP Independent Review 2024


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Epicor KineticIFS
Started inRebranding in 2021 (legacy version existed for more than 20 years)1986
Ownership byCD&R, over $57B in assets, and CVC with over $220B in assetsEQT
No. of customers 23,000+6,500+

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 with diverse business models, encompassing manufacturing, distribution, and also construction. Moreover, its advanced features support WBS-centric processes, enabling efficient management of large manufacturing programs with centralized cost tracking.

Epicor Kinetic also boasts a sophisticated data model, surpassing entry-level ERP systems 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 requires substantial expertise in process and data coding, particularly 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 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 in the $50M – $750M revenue range, it also has a strong customer base within this bracket. Current limitations include its field service capabilities, which are being addressed through an acquired add-on, and its finance and accounting module also, not as tightly integrated as other modern cloud-native solutions.

What Is IFS?

Similar to other upper mid-market ERP solutions like Infor LN, QAD, or Sage X3, IFS also boasts extensive functionality. This functionality is particularly tailored for companies heavy in asset and field service operations. Positioned uniquely in the market, IFS also appeals to enterprises seeking mature, industry-specific capabilities, reducing the need for extensive development with vanilla ERP systems like SAP or Oracle. IFS serves as an optimal alternative in the upper mid-market space, particularly offering standalone best-of-breed asset management and field service capabilities or a comprehensive ERP solution meticulously crafted for asset-centric industries, including telco, energy, construction, MRO, airlines, and IT field services.

The IFS data model surpasses the complexity of smaller systems like Acumatica or NetSuite, demanding an experienced internal team and also external advisory support to successfully align process and data codings with the intricate IFS data model. It is an ideal choice for upper mid-market companies outgrowing smaller systems, such as Acumatica or NetSuite, and requiring mature capabilities for enterprise-wide asset scheduling and maintenance. IFS not only delivers functional capabilities but also efficiently manages the transactional workload of upper-mid-market companies.

IFS boasts robust global, multi-entity capabilities and operates as a cloud-native solution. The majority of IFS customers fall within the $100M – $1B revenue range, with a significant portion nearing the $1B mark. While IFS has its roots in Europe, they have been trying to grow its presence in North America. In 2023, IFS made strategic acquisitions to enhance its AI and shop floor capabilities.

Epicor Kinetic vs IFS Comparison

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

Epicor KineticIFS
Global Operational CapabilitiesThe limited number of global and financial layers would require inefficient workarounds.Has robust global multi-entity capabilities.
Diverse CapabilitiesThe versatile data model addresses complex planning needs. Companies with a diverse business model, such as manufacturing or expecting changes with the model, might struggle.
Best-of-breed CapabilitiesRelying on third party add-ons for field service and quality module.Has one of the strongest field service and asset management capabilities.
Last-mile Capabilities Pre-packaged capabilities for metal, automotive, and aerospace verticals.Often require add-ons for specific micro-verticals.
Operational FunctionalitiesEquipped with strong mixed-mode manufacturing capabilities, and WBS-centric processes.It is a best-of-breed option for enterprise-grade asset and field service-centric use cases used alongside another ERP as a corporate ledger.
Integration CapabilitiesWith out-of-the-box MES functionality, appeals to smaller companies seeking pre-integrated Industry 4.0 capabilities.Good fit for those seeking best-of-breed field service capabilities for a subsidiary or integrated with a corporate financial ledger.
Manufacturing Capabilities Manufacturing organizations with formal processes and revision numbers will relate more to the product.Has comparatively limited manufacturing capabilities.
Pricing ModelPer user, monthlyRecurring subscription-based model
Key Modules1. 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
1. Manufacturing
2. Supply Chain Management
3. Projects 
4. Finance
5. Human Capital Management
6. Procurement
7. Customer Relationship Management
8. Commerce

Epicor Kinetic vs IFS 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 Epicor Kinetic vs IFS 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 Epicor Kinetic vs IFS. 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.

Epicor Kinetic IFS
Financial ManagementGeneral LedgerIt is a customizable, secure core component of its Financial Management suite. Offers accounting controls, seamless integration with other financial modules, global capabilities, and advanced reporting tools.Centralizes financial data management, enabling accounting, reporting, and analysis.
Accounts Receivable and Accounts PayableIncludes AR (managing invoicing, credit, cash, and customer payments) and AP (automating invoice processing, supporting multiple payment methods, and tracking expenses).Streamlines customer invoicing, payment processes, vendor invoices and payments.
Cash Flow ManagementFeatures automated cash handling, bank reconciliation, multi-currency and multi-bank management, integration with other financial modules, and real-time reporting and analysis.Enables accurate planning and forecasting of cash activities, and analyze liquidity and cash positions.
Currency ManagementSimplifies multi-currency transactions, automates exchange rate management, integrates with other financial modules, ensures global compliance, and provides real-time reporting and analysis.Handles transactions in multiple currencies, automatically calculating exchange rates and converting transactions into the base currency.
Tax ManagementAutomates sales and use tax calculations, integrates with financial modules, supports multiple jurisdictions, provides real-time updates, and simplifies reporting and filing.Automates and manages tax calculations, compliance, and reporting across multiple jurisdictions.

Supply Chain Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the supply chain management capabilities of Epicor Kinetic vs IFS, shedding light particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

Epicor KineticIFS
Supply Chain ManagementWarehouse ManagementOptimizes operations with real-time inventory tracking, advanced material management, seamless integration with other systems, and configurable workflows.Enables businesses to efficiently manage warehouse operations by automating the physical storage and retrieval of inventory items.
Service ManagementStreamlines operations with maintenance management, service contract handling, case management, RMA tracking, and real-time insights.Enables organizations to efficiently manage their field service operations, including planning, scheduling, dispatching, and also mobile workforce management.
Inventory Management Optimizes processes with detailed tracking, smart planning, advanced units of measure, automated purchase contracts, and seamless integration with supply chain and production modules.Provides real-time visibility into stock movements, to maintain optimal inventory levels by setting reorder points and also reducing the risk of overstocking and stock-outs.
Purchase Order ManagementStreamlines procurement with tools for supplier negotiations, order tracking, automated processes, and supplier relationship management.Streamlines the procurement process by automating the creation, tracking, and approval of purchase orders.
Sales Order ManagementStreamlines sales with features for order tracking, automation, estimating, cross-functional collaboration, and eCommerce integration.Efficiently handles the entire sales order process from quotation to invoicing, ensuring accurate order fulfillment and also real-time tracking across multiple sites.
Requisition ManagementAutomates procurement with real-time budget checks, vendor support, standing and blanket orders, multi-level approvals, and effective expenditure management.Allows users to create, track, and approve requisitions, ensuring that all purchase requests are efficiently managed and fulfilled.

Manufacturing Management Comparison

In this comparison, we explore and analyze the manufacturing management capabilities of Epicor Kinetic vs IFS, shedding light, particularly on their respective strengths and weaknesses.

Epicor Kinetic IFS
Manufacturing ManagementProduction Planning 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.Optimizes manufacturing processes by providing tools for capacity planning, production scheduling, material requirements planning, and also shop floor control, ensuring real-time visibility and efficiency.
BOM and RoutingStreamlines 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.Streamlines manufacturing by detailing the components and materials needed for production and also defining the sequence of operations required to produce a finished product.
Advanced Planning and SchedulingEnhances production efficiency with automated scheduling, flexible capacity planning, real-time adjustments, what-if scenarios, integrated material constraints, and multi-site management.Enhances manufacturing efficiency by optimizing resource allocation, production schedules, and also material requirements through advanced algorithms and real-time data analysis.

Pros of Epicor Kinetic vs IFS

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

Epicor Kinetic IFS
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.One of the most consistent user experiences that have been rearchitected and modernized.
90% of the capabilities required by verticals such as metal, automotive, and aerospace are pre-packaged with the core platform.One of the strongest asset-management capabilities particularly for organizations with very thick asset and predictive maintenance needs.
Great fit for manufacturing organizations that follow formal manufacturing processes with revision numbers.Designed to particularly handle large programs where consolidated visibility would be critical without ad-hoc arrangements.
Although a legacy product, it includes mature cloud capabilities such as enterprise search and transactional maps for end-to-end transactional traceability.Unique financial workflows to support complex project manufacturing programs.

Cons of Epicor Kinetic vs IFS

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

Epicor KineticIFS
The data layers are highly detailed, requiring substantial consulting help to be successful with the product.Has a limited presence in North America and also a lean partner ecosystem.
The limited focus on certain business models poses the risk of requiring other ERP systems to support complex and diverse business operations.Companies with a diverse business model, might outgrow or struggle with the solution.
The field service capabilities are not as embedded and proven as some of the other products.Companies involved with the M&A or the ones part of the PE portfolio might not be the best fit for IFS.
Epicor takes a suite approach to its products while selling directly to its customers. This limits the overall consulting and marketplace penetration.IFS might not be the best fit to be used just as the corporate ledger for large project manufacturing enterprises.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Epicor Kinetic vs IFS presents robust ERP solutions tailored to specific industry needs, with Epicor Kinetic excelling in manufacturing-centric environments and IFS dominating asset-intensive industries. Epicor Kinetic’s strength lies in its versatile data model and BOM structure, which support complex manufacturing operations across industries such as automotive, aerospace, and metal fabrication. Its advanced planning and scheduling capabilities, coupled with pre-packaged vertical solutions, make it ideal for companies with formal manufacturing processes. However, businesses may face challenges with Epicor’s limited global capabilities and its reliance on third-party add-ons for field service management.

On the other hand, IFS offers unparalleled asset management and field service functionalities, making it a preferred choice for companies in asset-centric sectors like telecom, energy, and construction. Its cloud-native architecture, multi-entity capabilities, and strong presence in large enterprises position IFS as a formidable option for companies seeking deep asset and field service management. However, IFS’s limited North American presence and lean partner ecosystem could pose challenges for businesses looking for local support. 

Both systems have their strengths and limitations, so businesses should carefully evaluate their specific need. 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 Epicor Kinetic vs. IFS but also insights from other analyses such as Epicor Kinetic vs. NetSuite, SAP S/4 HANA, Oracle Cloud ERP, Dynamics F&O, Dynamics 365 BC, Infor LN, Infor M3, and Acumatica.

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