To deliver products on time, manufacturing teams must juggle supply chain management, inventory tracking, resource allocation and production planning. Keeping all of these moving parts in sync requires production tracking software that is robust, flexible and easy to use.
The following is a list of the best production tracking software in descending order. These production tracking software tools help manufacturers monitor the production cycle, optimize operations, track capacity and improve overall efficiency. Whether you need a dedicated tracking system or an ERP solution with production monitoring capabilities, this list has options to fit your needs. Before we dive into the top production tracking software, let’s clarify what production tracking software is and why it’s essential for modern manufacturing.
What Is Production Tracking Software?
Production tracking software is a tool that helps manufacturers monitor and manage their production processes from start to finish. This type of production tracking software tracks the progress of tasks, oversees resource usage, monitors inventory and ensures that production stays on schedule. Production tracking software can be cloud-based or installed on-premise, depending on your needs.
While “production tracking software” is the most common term, you may also hear it referred to as manufacturing tracking software, production monitoring software or production management software. Production tracking software helps minimize delays by streamlining workflows, providing real-time updates on production progress and optimizing the allocation of resources for a more efficient manufacturing process.
Key Features of Production Tracking Software
The features offered by production tracking software can vary, and the best solution depends on your industry and how your team manages production. Here are some essential features to look for:
- Task & Workflow Monitoring: Production tracking software allows managers to follow the progress of tasks in real time. Tools such as Gantt charts, kanban boards, checklists and dashboards help teams visualize the production timeline, see who is responsible for each task and track completion status.
- Resource Management: Efficiently allocating people, materials and machinery is critical. Production tracking software should include features to schedule and manage resources effectively, including workload distribution charts and real-time availability updates.
- Project Management Capabilities: Since production often follows a project-like structure with timelines, budgets and stakeholders, production tracking software should support basic project management principles, allowing managers to plan, coordinate and adjust as needed.
- Cost Tracking and Budgeting: Keeping production costs under control is essential. Look for production tracking software with timesheets, cost dashboards and reporting features to monitor labor, materials and overhead throughout the production cycle.
- Document Management: Production involves many documents, including manufacturing orders, bills of materials and purchase orders. The best production tracking software offers file storage, sharing and version control to keep everything organized.
10 Best Production Tracking Software
Now that we understand what production tracking software is and the features that it should have to do its job better, let’s review the best products on the market. We’ll start with the best and for each review pros and cons, pricing and more.
1. ProjectManager
ProjectManager is award-winning production tracking software that puts manufacturers in control of their entire production process. Cloud-based and easy to set up, it offers a full suite of tools for production monitoring, resource management, task tracking and reporting. There’s even a mobile app for managing work directly from the shop floor. With a free 30-day trial, you can experience ProjectManager’s robust tracking features firsthand.
Track Resources and Costs in Real Time
ProjectManager’s Gantt charts are essential for production tracking. They connect all task dependencies to prevent bottlenecks and costly delays. Both human and nonhuman resources, along with associated costs, are tracked in real time. Once a production schedule is created, you can set a baseline to compare planned versus actual progress, identify anomalies and reallocate resources to keep production on track.
Automate Production Workflows
ProjectManager allows you to create custom workflows that keep production moving smoothly. Automated workflows enable triggers to update task status, assignees and more, saving time while maintaining control. Task approval settings ensure quality by requiring an authorized check before a task progresses. Multiple project views—Gantt, kanban, list and calendar—reflect all workflow updates across the platform, making it easy to manage production from any perspective.
Gain Real-Time Insights Into Team Workload and Progress
ProjectManager’s resource management tools let you see all team tasks in one place. Filter tasks by team, daily or weekly work, and adjust assignments instantly with drag-and-drop. You can add comments, attach files or update hours on any task. This seamless integration of production tracking with resource management makes it easier than ever to balance workloads and keep projects on schedule.
Thanks to its powerful scheduling, resource management and workflow automation features. ProjectManager is ideal for manufacturers who need real-time insights, task tracking and seamless project visibility across teams. Start your free 30-day trial today and see how it can optimize your production operations.
Verdict: Best Production Tracking Software for Manufacturers
ProjectManager Pros & Key Features
- Workload charts monitor resource utilization and allocate tasks in real time
- Real-time dashboards & timesheets track costs, labor and key performance indicators
- Workflow automation & task approval settings streamline production while ensuring quality deliverables
- Multiple project views show schedules in Gantt, kanban, list and calendar formats
- Document & version control store files and revert to previous plans if needed
- Risk management features visualize potential issues with impact and likelihood graphics
- Mobile app manages production from anywhere on iOS or Android
- Free 30-Day trial allows users to test all features with no risk
ProjectManager Cons & Limitations
- Does not include built-in ERP tools but integrates with Acumatica
- Missing some manufacturing-specific features
- Limited support for assembling the bill of materials
- No free plan beyond the trial
ProjectManager Pricing
- Team Plan: $14/user/month
- Business Plan: $26/user/month
- Enterprise Plan: Contact sales
ProjectManager Reviews
Highlighted User Reviews
- “ProjectManager works very well with both large and small-scale projects. Being able to use this with anything from a project involving only two members of staff, to hundreds, has been invaluable.” Peter W – from Capterra
- “We used to manage our projects, resources, and reporting in different systems. Enter ProjectManager. We have consolidated systems and work more efficiently.” Jeffrey M – from Capterra
- “Having the full scope of activities and who is responsible to do it, plus the time tracking is excellent.” Flavio M – from G2
- “It has an excellent accounting system capable of calculating the time that a person has used to develop a task that was assigned to him, I like being able to collaborate with all my colleagues in the Finance sector through ProjectManager.” Jesus C – from G2
- “The UI of the application is user-friendly, and it helps to identify what we are looking for with minimal effort.” Pavan H – from G2
- “It’s a solid platform and has very good customer service. you can send collaboration invitations to your customers or partners, without the need for a setup or anything extra. What I like is that the website is always online, does not fall and is easy and intuitive to manage.” Aleksei V – from GetApp
2. MRPeasy
MRPeasy is an entry-level production tracking software that provides basic tools for small manufacturers. It offers built-in production planning and inventory management, giving real-time visibility into schedules, inventory levels and material requirements.
MRPeasy also tracks customer information and integrates with accounting platforms like QuickBooks and Xero, making it a solid choice for small teams looking to streamline basic production and financial processes. There’s a free trial, and the platform has a mobile-friendly interface for Android and iOS, allowing some flexibility for users on the go.
However, MRPeasy has several limitations that make it less ideal for more complex manufacturing environments. It only provides a calendar view for scheduling, which can feel restrictive compared to dynamic tools like Gantt charts. Workload management features are limited, and workflow customization is minimal, making it challenging for manufacturers with specialized processes. Some functionality requires paid integrations, which adds cost and setup complexity. Additionally, the platform can have a steep learning curve for non-technical users, and its mobile app is not as fully featured as competitors.
Verdict: Production Tracking Software for Small Manufacturers
MRPeasy Pros & Key Features
- Tracks customer information, including order history and communications
- Integrates with QuickBooks and Xero for invoicing and financial reporting
- Built-in production planning and inventory management for real-time schedule and material tracking
- Offers a free trial
- Mobile-friendly interface for Android and iOS
MRPeasy Cons & Limitations
- Only offers a calendar view for scheduling production, lacking dynamic visualization tools like Gantt charts
- Relies on paid integrations for full functionality, adding cost and setup complexity
- No workload management tools for balancing tasks across employees or machines
- Limited workflow customization for specialized processes
- Mobile app is limited in functionality compared to desktop features
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
MRPeasy Pricing
- Starter: $49/user/month
- Professional: $69/user/month
- Enterprise: $99/user/month
- Unlimited: $149/user/month
MRPeasy Reviews
Highlighted User Reviews
- “It covers all the essential features I need to manage my manufacturing processes, from inventory tracking to order management, without overwhelming me with complexity.” Alice B – from G2
- “It provided a solid foundation for managing manufacturing processes and streamlining operations.” Marek T – from Capterra
3. Katana MRP
Katana MRP is a cloud-based production tracking software that works well for small to mid-sized manufacturers. It provides automated workflows to move tasks along production lines efficiently and offers clear visibility into raw material availability and inventory levels directly linked to production orders.
The software integrates seamlessly with e-commerce platforms and accounting systems, giving manufacturers a central hub to manage both production and sales. There’s a free 14-day trial, making it easy to test the platform before committing.
On the downside, Katana lacks many advanced production tracking features that larger or more complex manufacturers may need. It does not include Gantt charts or other in-depth production planning tools, and there are no workload management features like resource leveling or shift planning.
Users also have limited access to project status, cost reporting or quality control tools. Workflow customization is minimal, there’s no native CRM, and the absence of a mobile app makes it harder for teams to manage production on the go.
Verdict: Production Tracking Software for Integrating with E-Commerce Platforms
Katana MRPPros & Key Features
- Automated workflows trigger actions to move production tasks efficiently
- Visibility into raw material availability and inventory levels tied to production orders
- Seamless integration with e-commerce and accounting platforms
- Offers a free 14-day trial
Katana MRP Cons & Limitations
- Limited production planning and scheduling features, lacking tools like Gantt charts
- No workload management features, such as resource leveling or shift planning
- No project status, cost or health reports, limiting insight into job-level performance
- Lacks native CRM and customer communication tools
- No built-in quality control tools for inspections or defect tracking
- Limited workflow and status customization
- No mobile app
Katana MRP Pricing
- Essential: $99/user/month
- Advanced: $299/user/month
- Professional: $599/user/month
- Enterprise: Contact sales
Katana MRP Reviews
Highlighted User Reviews
- “I’ve found Katana to be quite easy to use and operate.” Lucas M – from G2
- “The Excel templates allow for bulk uploads of all of the required data categories, which don’t need to be uploaded manually.” Brent T – from Capterra
4. NetSuite
NetSuite is a powerful cloud-based production tracking software that is well-suited for medium to large manufacturers. Its integrated ERP system gives full visibility into production processes, inventory levels, and supply chain management. Users can track materials, monitor production progress, and manage resources all in real time. NetSuite also offers strong reporting tools, allowing manufacturers to analyze performance, costs, and efficiency across multiple sites.
However, NetSuite can be overly complex for smaller operations or teams without dedicated IT support. Its setup and customization require significant time and expertise, and the platform can feel overwhelming for non-technical users. NetSuite’s high price point and reliance on ERP modules for full functionality may make it inaccessible for smaller manufacturers, and mobile access is limited compared with more lightweight production tracking solutions.
Verdict: Production Tracking Software for Enterprise Manufacturers
NetSuite Pros & Key Features
- Integrated ERP system provides real-time visibility into production, inventory and supply chain
- Comprehensive reporting for performance, cost tracking, and operational insights
- Tracks materials and production progress across multiple facilities
- Centralized platform for managing resources, procurement and manufacturing processes
- Cloud-based system allows for remote access and collaboration
NetSuite Cons & Limitations
- Complex setup and configuration requiring technical expertise
- High cost, making it less suitable for small manufacturers
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Mobile app functionality is limited compared with other production tracking software
- Full production tracking features often require additional ERP modules
NetSuite Pricing
- Pricing varies by package and number of users; contact sales for a quote
NetSuite Reviews
Highlighted User Reviews
- “The best part about NetSuite is the ease of use for new users across our organization.” Joe W – from G2
- “NetSuite was the easiest ERP Software to learn and use.” Wes P – from Capterra
5. SAP PP
SAP PP (Production Planning) is a robust production tracking software designed for large-scale manufacturers and complex production environments. It provides comprehensive tools to plan, track, and optimize production processes, including material requirements planning, capacity planning and real-time monitoring of shop floor activities.
SAP PP integrates seamlessly with other SAP modules, giving manufacturers a full view of operations from procurement to sales, and enabling data-driven decisions across the enterprise.
Despite its power, SAP PP can be challenging for smaller businesses due to its complexity and cost. Implementation is time-intensive, requiring specialized knowledge, and users often need training to navigate the platform effectively. The interface can feel overwhelming, and its mobile capabilities are limited compared with lighter production tracking software. For companies without dedicated SAP support, the steep learning curve and high subscription fees may be significant obstacles.
Verdict: Production Tracking Software for Large Manufacturers
SAP PP Pros & Key Features
- Comprehensive production planning, including MRP, capacity planning and shop floor tracking
- Integrates with other SAP modules for full enterprise visibility
- Real-time monitoring of production progress and resource usage
- Advanced reporting and analytics for cost, efficiency, and operational insights
- Supports complex manufacturing processes and multi-site operations
SAP PP Cons & Limitations
- Complex setup and implementation requiring specialized expertise
- High cost makes it inaccessible for small and medium manufacturers
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Limited mobile capabilities compared with lightweight alternatives
- Interface can feel overwhelming for smaller production teams
SAP PP Pricing
- Pricing varies by company size and module selection; contact SAP sales for a quote
SAP PP Reviews
Highlighted User Reviews
- “SAP Customer Data Platform helps us to build trust with customers and reduce the time to market products. It has a holistic view of customer data, which is very helpful to our management in making decisions. It complies with all of our required compliance.” Rajiv T. – from G2
- “The thing I like most about this is that you can manage all the Enterprise Resources, so that you can get better efficiency. Javier R. – from Capterra
6. Jira
Jira is a flexible production tracking software popular with manufacturing and software teams alike. Its strength lies in task management, workflow customization, and real-time progress tracking. Jira allows teams to visualize production processes using kanban boards, scrum boards and customizable dashboards, giving managers insight into task status, bottlenecks and team workloads. The platform also integrates with numerous third-party tools, including time tracking and reporting solutions, making it versatile for production operations.
However, Jira is not designed specifically for manufacturing, so it lacks built-in production scheduling, material planning and shop floor tracking features. Workload management for physical resources is limited, and advanced production reporting is not native.
Teams may need multiple add-ons to achieve full production tracking functionality, which increases cost and complexity. The interface can be overwhelming for non-technical users, and mobile app functionality, while available, is limited compared with dedicated production tracking software.
Verdict: Production Tracking Software for Task-Oriented Teams
Jira Pros & Key Features
- Customizable workflows and task boards for visualizing production processes
- Real-time tracking of task progress and team workload
- Integrates with numerous third-party tools for time tracking, reporting and collaboration
- Kanban, scrum and dashboard views provide flexible project visualization
- Cloud-based system with web and mobile access
Jira Cons & Limitations
- Lacks built-in production scheduling and material planning features
- No native shop floor or resource tracking for manufacturing operations
- Advanced production reporting requires additional add-ons
- Mobile functionality is limited compared with dedicated production tracking software
- Interface can be complex and overwhelming for non-technical users
Jira Pricing
- Free plan available for small teams
- Standard: $7.75/user/month
- Premium: $15.25/user/month
- Enterprise: Contact sales
Jira Reviews
Highlighted User Reviews
- “In my office we use jira for task management and time management, which helps us for team projects with multiple moving parts.” Saili K – from G2
- “Once we got past the learning phase, Jira significantly improved our project efficiency and collaboration.” Abu R – from Capterra
7. DELMIAWorks
DELMIAworks is a comprehensive production tracking software built for manufacturers who need full visibility into their operations. It provides real-time monitoring of production workflows, inventory, and shop floor activities, while also integrating quality management, scheduling, and material planning. The platform is highly configurable and includes reporting and analytics tools that help manufacturers track performance, optimize resources, and reduce downtime.
On the downside, DELMIAworks can be complex and resource-intensive to implement. Smaller manufacturers may find the learning curve steep, and navigating the system without dedicated support can be challenging. Its mobile capabilities are limited compared with lighter production tracking software, and the cost of the platform can be prohibitive for small to mid-sized businesses. Additionally, the setup and customization process can require significant time and expertise.
Verdict: Production Tracking Software for Mid-to-Large Manufacturers
DELMIAworks Pros & Key Features
- Real-time monitoring of production workflows and shop floor activities
- Integrated quality management and compliance tracking
- Advanced scheduling and material planning capabilities
- Customizable reporting and analytics for operational insights
- Highly configurable to adapt to complex manufacturing processes
DELMIAworks Cons & Limitations
- Complex setup and configuration requiring technical expertise
- High cost, less suitable for small manufacturers
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Limited mobile functionality compared with lighter production tracking software
- Time-intensive customization and implementation process
DELMIAworks Pricing
- Pricing varies depending on company size and modules; contact DELMIAworks sales for a quote
DELMIAWorks Reviews
Highlighted User Reviews
- “I like its concept of making jobs easier by making your business operations transparent and more organized. Easy to manage and handle” Khurshid Muhammad S. – from G2
- It includes everything from order entry, inventory, machine scheduling to accounting Pierrette L. – from Capterra
8. Visual Planning
Visual Planning is a versatile production tracking software designed to help manufacturers organize, monitor, and optimize production schedules. Its drag-and-drop interface and customizable calendars allow managers to visualize tasks, resources, and timelines easily.
The software provides real-time updates on task progress and resource allocation, helping teams reduce bottlenecks and improve efficiency. Integration with other business tools and reporting features gives manufacturers a comprehensive overview of operations.
Despite its flexibility, Visual Planning has some limitations. Its production tracking features are relatively basic compared with more advanced platforms, lacking robust tools like Gantt charts, material planning or in-depth resource leveling. Mobile access is limited, and customization options for complex workflows can be restrictive for manufacturers with specialized processes. Users may also find that scaling the system for larger teams or multiple sites requires additional setup and support.
Verdict: Production Tracking Software for Overview of Operations
Visual Planning Pros & Key Features
- Drag-and-drop interface for scheduling and task management
- Real-time updates on task progress and resource allocation
- Customizable calendars and views for easy visualization of production
- Integration with other business tools for reporting and operational oversight
- Helps reduce bottlenecks and improve efficiency in production workflows
Visual Planning Cons & Limitations
- Basic production tracking features, lacking Gantt charts and material planning
- No advanced workload management or resource leveling
- Limited mobile access
- Workflow customization is limited for complex or specialized production processes
- Scaling for larger teams or multiple sites requires additional setup and support
Visual Planning Pricing
- Pricing varies depending on the number of users and modules; contact Visual Planning for a quote
Visual Planning Reviews
Highlighted User Reviews
- “Scheduling tasks for different employees is very simple, you just click on their box and then click add card.” Benjamin M – from G2
- “Great for keeping up with a fluid production schedule.” Dave O – from Capterra
9. Tactic by Waterloo
Tactic by Waterloo is a cloud-based production tracking software that provides manufacturers with real-time visibility into production workflows, inventory, and resource allocation. Its platform is highly visual, allowing teams to manage tasks, monitor job progress, and track materials using interactive dashboards. Tactic also includes reporting and analytics features, helping managers identify bottlenecks, optimize resource usage, and make data-driven decisions efficiently.
Despite its strengths, Tactic has some drawbacks for manufacturers with complex or large-scale operations. It lacks advanced production planning features such as Gantt charts, material requirements planning and detailed workload management. Mobile capabilities are limited, and the system may require training for non-technical users to fully utilize all features. Additionally, scaling the software for multiple sites or highly customized workflows can be challenging without additional configuration.
Verdict: Production Tracking Software for Highly Visual Teams
Tactic by Waterloo Pros & Key Features
- Real-time visibility into production workflows, inventory, and resource allocation
- Interactive dashboards for monitoring task progress and materials
- Reporting and analytics to optimize production and resource usage
- Cloud-based system for easy access and collaboration
- Visual interface simplifies tracking and managing production tasks
Tactic by Waterloo Cons & Limitations
- Lacks advanced production planning features like Gantt charts and MRP
- No detailed workload management for balancing resources across teams
- Mobile functionality is limited compared with other platforms
- May require training for non-technical users to fully leverage features
- Scaling for multiple sites or highly customized workflows can be challenging
Tactic by Waterloo Pricing
- Pricing varies depending on the number of users and configuration; contact Tactic by Waterloo for a quote
Tactic by Waterloo Reviews
Highlighted User Reviews
- “One of the things I really appreciate about Tactic is the ability to reserve my preferred computer station and easily check who will be working on that day. It’s so convenient to see the availability of each person and their specific time slots.” Angela O. – from G2
- “The ability to customize and to integrate TACTIC into the existing ERP/MRP was key!” – Allen D. – from Capterra
10. Fishbowl Inventory
Fishbowl Inventory is a production tracking software designed to help small and mid-sized manufacturers manage inventory, production workflows, and material requirements. It integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks and Xero, providing visibility into production costs, inventory levels, and order fulfillment. Fishbowl’s intuitive interface and reporting tools make it easier for managers to track job progress, monitor resource usage, and optimize production processes in real time.
However, Fishbowl has several limitations that may affect larger or more complex operations. Its production scheduling and planning features are relatively basic, lacking advanced tools like Gantt charts or capacity planning. Workload management across multiple machines or teams is limited, and mobile functionality is restricted compared with other production tracking software. Additionally, fully leveraging Fishbowl’s features may require additional integrations, which can increase cost and setup complexity.
Verdict: Production Tracking Software for Warehouse Workflows
Fishbowl Inventory Pros & Key Features
- Tracks inventory, production workflows, and material requirements in real time
- Integrates with QuickBooks and Xero for accounting and cost tracking
- Reporting tools provide insight into job progress, costs, and resource usage
- Intuitive interface simplifies production tracking for small teams
- Helps optimize production processes and order fulfillment
Fishbowl Inventory Cons & Limitations
- Basic production scheduling and planning features, lacking Gantt charts or capacity planning
- No advanced workload management for teams or machines
- Mobile functionality is limited
- Full functionality may require additional paid integrations
- Not ideal for complex or multi-site manufacturing operations
Fishbowl Inventory Pricing
- Pricing varies by number of users and modules; contact Fishbowl for a quote
Fishbowl Inventory Pricing
- Contact for quote (starting at $4,395)
Fishbowl Inventory Reviews
Highlighted User Reviews
- “We were looking for a platform to help us keep up with our inventory quantities, costs, ordering, and manufacturing.” Bryan W – from G2
- “There is a learning curve but in the end you have what you need.” Rulon C – from Capterra
Related Content
The best production inventory software is necessary for greater efficiency. For those who want to read more about project management software, production management, planning and more, check out the links below.
ProjectManager is online production planning software that empowers everyone to plan, manage and track their production run in real time. It gives manufacturers automated and custom workload, task approval, filtered reports and much more. Join teams at Avis, Nestle and Siemens who are using our software to deliver successful projects. Get started with ProjectManager today for free.
