Do you pull your hair out trying to schedule your manufacturing processes? If so, you’re not alone. Production planning and scheduling can be challenging, especially in today’s fast-paced and competitive business landscape.
Fortunately, production scheduling software can make your life easier. The right production scheduling software can improve your operations, boost productivity, and maximize resource utilization.
We’re here to highlight the 10 best production scheduling software options. We’ll outline the strengths and weaknesses of each while also touching on pricing options and ratings.
By the end of this article, you should have a much better idea of what software to use to help revamp your production planning processes!
Summarize this article for me pleaseWhat Should You Look for in Production Scheduling Software?
When searching for the ideal production scheduling software, there are lots of key factors to consider.
First, you’ll want to consider functionality. Look for software that offers comprehensive features such as real-time scheduling, capacity planning, resource allocation, and the ability to handle complex resource constraints. 🛠️
Scalability is another important aspect. You want software that can grow and adapt alongside your business. Having integration capabilities with other systems like enterprise resource planning (ERP) or customer relationship management (CRM) is a must.
Don’t overlook user-friendliness! If the software requires a full month of training, it’s probably not the one—you have work to get to! Also, check out the software’s reporting and analytics capabilities. These can be your secret weapon for optimizing production efficiency. 🙌
Lastly, you’ll want to think about factors like customer support and pricing models to make sure the software solution meets your unique needs for your production schedule.
Summarize this article for me pleaseThe 10 Best Production Scheduling Software to Use in 2024
Now that you have a better understanding of what you should be looking for in production planning software, let’s take a closer look at the 10 best options to consider choosing from.
1. ClickUp
If you’re tired of grappling with the complexities of managing production schedules, ClickUp is your ultimate solution. ClickUp is a top-notch production scheduling software that’s designed to revolutionize your workflow. Our all-in-one platform seamlessly combines the functionalities of a personal assistant, project manager, and timekeeper, all neatly packaged into one convenient interface. 🤩
ClickUp empowers you to bid farewell to production planning mishaps and regain control over your production processes. Our user-friendly interface simplifies the creation and management of schedules, allowing you to assign tasks, set deadlines, and monitor progress with little effort. Even those less technologically inclined will find it a breeze to navigate and utilize ClickUp’s comprehensive features.
Our platform also has a suite of advanced features such as ClickUp Gantt View, resource management, and real-time collaboration. Visualize your production timeline with ease, optimize resource allocation, and foster seamless teamwork within a single unified platform. Say goodbye to unwieldy spreadsheets and embrace the streamlined efficiency of ClickUp.
ClickUp best features
- Use product roadmap templates and drag-and-drop features to schedule your entire manufacturing process
- Incorporate data from third-party time tracking, resource management, and communication platforms
- Track raw materials and the procurement of other materials so that you can properly plan for upcoming manufacturing orders
- Gantt Charts, Agile, Kanban, and ClickUp Calendar View are supported, enabling you to choose the approach that best suits your manufacturing operations 🗓️
- Add tasks and create reminders right from the production line via mobile apps, available for both iOS and Android 📲
ClickUp limitations
- Depending on the CRMs you are importing batch files and leads from, some formatting may change when bringing data into ClickUp
- There are many customizable features available on ClickUp, which can make the product overwhelming for those unfamiliar with production scheduling software
ClickUp pricing
- Free Forever
- Unlimited: $7/month per user
- Business: $12/month per user
- Business Plus: $19/month per user
- Enterprise: Contact for pricing
ClickUp ratings and reviews
- G2: 4.7/5 (8,200+ reviews)
- Capterra: 4.7/5 (3,700+ reviews)
2. MasterControl
One of the key strengths of MasterControl is its ability to automate scheduling processes, reducing the time and effort required for manual planning. The production planning software employs advanced algorithms and optimization techniques to generate optimal production schedules, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity.
It also supports integration with other systems such as enterprise resource planning (ERP) software and manufacturing execution systems (MES), enabling seamless data exchange and synchronization across the production ecosystem.
With its robust reporting and analytics capabilities, MasterControl allows you to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and identify areas for improvement, which helps with continuous process optimization.
MasterControl best features
- Training tasks are issued whenever a user inputs a corrective action, which helps to maximize efficiency by keeping the shop floor safe
- Automate and manage quality event, product design, and critical compliance documents
- Connect all supplier quality management processes, including supplier corrective action requests (SCARs), corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs), deviations, and audit management
MasterControl limitations
- The software may be best suited for those in the life science or medical industries 💉
- Users reported that many features were not available without a full license
MasterControl pricing
- Contact sales for custom pricing
MasterControl ratings and reviews
- G2: 4.4/5 (140+ reviews)
- Capterra: 4.5/5 (230+ reviews)
3. Odoo
Odoo is a versatile and feature-rich production scheduling software that offers a comprehensive set of tools to effectively manage manufacturing operations. With its modular design and customizable nature, Odoo allows companies to tailor the software to their specific production needs.
Users can easily track the progress of each task, monitor resource availability, and identify bottlenecks or delays in the production schedule. Odoo’s collaborative features also encourage communication and coordination among team members. More alignment and visibility into the production process and schedule is always a win. 💯
Odoo best features
- Easy to create and follow production schedules with drag-and-drop functionality
- The ability to define work orders, assign resources, and set priorities improves resource management
- The production process software allows for the integration of material requirements planning (MRP) functionalities, enabling seamless inventory management and procurement processes
Odoo limitations
- Features may be rolled out before they are fully debugged, impacting the user experience
- Some users indicated that they wished the performance KPIs would be improved
Odoo pricing
- One App: Free
- Standard: $31.10/month per user
- Custom: $46.80/month per user
Odoo ratings and reviews
- G2: 4.2/5 (220+ reviews)
- Capterra: 4.2/5 (700+ reviews)
4. NetSuite
NetSuite is a comprehensive cloud-based business management software that offers powerful production scheduling capabilities. With its integrated suite of applications, NetSuite provides a holistic solution for managing manufacturing operations.
The software allows users to create and maintain detailed production schedules while considering variables like resource availability, lead times, and order priorities. NetSuite’s drag-and-drop interface makes it easy to adjust schedules, allocate resources, and track the progress of each task in real-time.
You may also benefit from NetSuite if you’re looking to gain valuable insights regarding your production performance. The platform’s robust reporting and analytics capabilities could help you make data-driven decisions.
NetSuite best features
- In addition to production schedule features, the software offers inventory management, supply chain management, and financial reporting tools for production planning
- Built-in analytics allow users to integrate across their manufacturing, e-commerce, CRM, and ERP solutions
- Real-time inventory visibility allows users to manage procurement processes while focusing on the routing required for raw materials
NetSuite limitations
- There have been indications that NetSuite’s customer service is limited
- The complexity of NetSuite’s customizations can make the product harder to use
NetSuite pricing
- Contact sales for custom pricing
NetSuite ratings and reviews
- G2: 4/5 (2,500+ reviews)
- Capterra: 4.1/5 (1,300+ reviews)
5. MRPeasy
MRPeasy is a production scheduling software that offers a range of features specifically designed for small and medium-sized manufacturing businesses. With MRPeasy, you can plan and schedule production orders while considering things like resource availability, lead times, and order priorities. Users can easily track the progress of each task. There’s no better feeling than knowing your production orders are fulfilled on time!
MRPeasy also provides visibility into inventory levels, preventing stockouts or overstocking—no more barren or overflowing shelves! Additionally, the platform offers production planning tools so that you can use both your equipment and personnel in the most efficient way possible.
MRPeasy best features
- A one-stop-shop scheduling solution, this software improves manufacturing operations by combining production scheduling with inventory management, procurement, and customer management
- User-friendly interface and intuitive navigation makes it easy for users of small to mid-sized manufacturing companies to create and manage production schedules
- Improve equipment efficiency and utilization with real-time reporting capabilities
MRPeasy limitations
- Users who rely on raw materials indicated that the platform was not extensive enough to meet their needs
- Cost systems not yet incorporated
MRPeasy pricing
- Starter: $49/month
- Professional: $69/month per user
- Enterprise: $99/month per user
- Unlimited: $149/month per user
MRPeasy ratings and reviews
- G2: 4.2/5 (15+ reviews)
- Capterra: 4.5/5 (75+ reviews)
6. Visual Planning
With its intuitive and visual interface, Visual Planning allows users to create and organize production schedules with ease. Users can easily drag and drop tasks, adjust timelines, and set dependencies to ensure smooth production flow. Visual Planning also offers real-time updates and notifications, keeping users informed about the progress of each task.
One of the key strengths of Visual Planning is its flexibility and customization options. Visual Planning supports integration with other systems, such as ERP systems or production control systems. Integrations can make your life easier as your entire production ecosystem will be in sync.
Advanced reporting and analytics mean you can study production performance, track key metrics, and identify areas for improvement. 👀
Visual Planning best features
- A customizable scheduling solution allows users to tailor processes to their specific manufacturing needs. Users can define their own rules, workflows, and constraints, ensuring that the production schedule aligns with their unique requirements
- Use graphical representations to easily track production resources, tasks, and timelines ⏲️
- Cloud-based software allows users to take the scheduling system wherever they go
Visual Planning limitations
- Users said that the platform appeared outdated
- The software does not appear to be used or reviewed as extensively online as some of the other options on our list
Visual Planning pricing
- VP Desk: $55/month per user
- VP Portal: $35/month per user
- VP Go: $15/month per user
Visual Planning ratings and reviews
- G2: 3.8/5 (4 reviews)
- Capterra: 4.7/5 (30+ reviews)
7. Schedlyzer
With its advanced algorithms and optimization techniques, Schedlyzer makes managing manufacturing operations way more efficient. The software takes into account factors like resource availability, production capacity, order priorities, and constraints to generate wow-worthy production schedules.
We love Schedlyzer’s simulation capabilities, which allow you to evaluate the impact of different scenarios and make better decisions for production planning.
Schedlyzer best features
- Schedlyzer excels when it comes to integrating other systems and data sources, such as ERP software, MES, and real-time production data
- Planners can track KPIs, identify bottlenecks, and analyze production data with comprehensive reporting
- Machine learning and predictive analytics to forecast demand and automatically adjust schedules to meet changing customer demands
Schedlyzer limitations
- Schedlyzer does not offer live simulations. Instead, scheduling forecasting and reporting is static
- Some users said that the reporting dashboards were not clear or concise compared to other production planning tools
Schedlyzer pricing
- Free trial
- Contact sales for pricing
Schedlyzer ratings and reviews
- G2: n/a
- Capterra: 4.4/5 (15+ reviews)
8. Optessa
If you have been struggling to solve complex scheduling and optimization challenges, Optessa may be for you. We’re big fans of Optessa’s ability to help solve difficult scheduling dilemmas.
The platform offers a flexible and user-friendly interface that allows you to visualize and adjust schedules, assign resources, and set constraints. Optessa gives the whole team real-time updates and notifications, too.
Optessa best features
- The software excels in managing large-scale production environments with multiple resources, intricate workflows, and complex dependencies
- Optessa offers advanced what-if analysis and scenario planning, allowing users to simulate scheduling scenarios and evaluate their impact
- Using algorithms, users can account for multiple factors such as resource constraints, production capacities, order priorities, and sequencing rules
Optessa limitations
- Users said that the connection to the platform would drop frequently
- There is no mobile app on either iOS or Android
Optessa pricing
- Contact sales for pricing
Optessa ratings and reviews
- G2: 3.5/5 (1 review)
- Capterra: 4.5/5 (4 reviews)
9. Katana MRP
Small and mid-sized manufacturers, your time has come: Katana MRP is a production scheduling software designed specifically for you. With its user-friendly interface and intuitive workflow, Katana MRP simplifies the production scheduling process and streamlines manufacturing operations. The software offers real-time visibility into production orders, allowing you to create and adjust schedules effortlessly.
Users can easily track the progress of each task, monitor inventory levels, and make informed decisions to ensure on-time delivery and efficient resource utilization.
Katana MRP best features
- Track raw material availability and prevent stockouts or overstocking
- Users can manage their production schedules in conjunction with stock levels and purchase order requests via a centralized hub
- Drag-and-drop functionality makes it easy to coordinate and convey manufacturing production schedules
Katana MRP limitations
- Shopify integrates at the product level but not at the material level
- Users indicated that the platform experienced lag times
Katana MRP pricing
- Essential: $99/month
- Advanced: $299/month
- Professional: $599/month
- Enterprise: Contact sales for pricing
Katana MRP ratings and reviews
- G2: 4.4/5 (35+ reviews)
- Capterra: 4.7/5 (145+ reviews)
10. InkSoft
InkSoft is a specialized production scheduling software designed for the print and apparel industry. With its industry-specific features and intuitive interface, InkSoft streamlines the production scheduling process for all things custom printing and garment decoration. 👕
The software allows users to create and manage production schedules, taking into account factors like order specifications, print methods, production capacities, and delivery deadlines. InkSoft offers a visual dashboard that provides a clear overview of the production workflow, allowing users to easily track the progress of each order, allocate resources, and ensure efficient flow.
InkSoft best features
- InkSoft seamlessly integrates with other functions such as online stores, CRM systems, and design software
- Keep users informed with real-time notifications about order updates, changes, or other potential issues that may impact the production schedule
- Reporting and analytics features let you analyze production performance, track key metrics, and make data-driven decisions to optimize production scheduling and resource allocation
InkSoft limitations
- Users do not have access to their own marketing data
- There are limited means to customizing the platform
InkSoft pricing
- InkSoft: $299/month for five users
- InkSoft Unlimited: $399/month for unlimited users
InkSoft ratings and reviews
- G2: 2.7/5 (5+ reviews)
- Capterra: 3.9/5 (10+ reviews)
Summarize this article for me pleaseBoost Profits With the Best Production Scheduling Software
Production scheduling software can impact your business tremendously. The right software can help you streamline scheduling, optimize resources, improve the likelihood of meeting project deadlines, and boost profitability.
One solution strongly worth considering is ClickUp. With its advanced planning and scheduling features, ClickUp can help you improve efficiencies, avoid bottlenecks, and maintain on-time deliveries.
Sign up for ClickUp today to get started. 💥
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