If you run a small business, you know how difficult it can be to manage all your business processes efficiently. An enterprise resource planning (ERP) system can be a game-changer for your operations. The right ERP software solution delivers visibility across your entire organization so you can effectively coordinate your finances, inventory, sales, manufacturing, and more from a unified platform.

With so many ERP systems on the market, how do you determine what will best suit your unique business needs in 2023? This comprehensive guide examines the top 10 ERP software options specifically designed for small and mid-sized businesses this year. We will overview the benefits of ERP systems, key features small companies need, and break down the leading choices with pros, cons and pricing to help you choose the best ERP management software for your growing business.

Why Do Small Businesses Need ERP Software?

Before diving into the top systems, let’s review the compelling reasons to implement an ERP solution in a small business setting. The right ERP software provides a centralized database and dashboard to manage and optimize your core business functions all through integrated applications rather than separate, siloed software programs.

Benefits of ERP Systems for Small Companies:

• Improved Efficiency – Automate processes and share real-time data across departments for faster operations and productivity
• Enhanced Reporting & Analytics – Gain business intelligence with reports, dashboards and analytics across business units
• Cost Savings – Reduce waste and costs by improving processes, inventory management and HR functions
• Scalability for Growth – Cloud ERP allows businesses to quickly scale the solution as needs change
• Data Security – Modern cloud ERP software invests heavily in cybersecurity and backups to protect data

Let’s explore the top 10 ERP software systems on the market in 2023 ideal for small businesses ready to manage growth and complexity with an integrated platform.

The 10 Best ERP Systems for Small Business

1. SAP Business One

SAP Business One is one of the most widely adopted ERP platforms designed specifically for small and midsize businesses. Over 55,000 organizations across 150+ countries leverage SAP Business One to manage their key erp implementation processes including:

• Financial Management
• Sales and Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
• Inventory and Supply Chain Management
• Project Management
• Reporting and Administration

As a cloud ERP solution, SAP Business One offers flexibility to access the system through the cloud or on premise. The user experience is streamlined with 40+ prebuilt, industry-specific business processes optimized for manufacturing, professional services, wholesale and more. SAP Business One integrates with commonly used small business tools like accounting software, ecommerce platforms, and Microsoft Office applications.

The automated reports and interactive dashboards provide real-time visibility and business intelligence. SAP Business One is designed to grow with your organization, scaling smoothly as you add users and new capabilities.

Pros: Wide range of features, global implementations, scalability, mobile access options

Cons: Can require significant IT investment and lengthy implementation timeline, industry-specific versions cost more, can be overly complex for simpler needs

Price: Contact SAP representative for quote based on business size and complexity. Starts around $2,200/user.

2. Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central (formerly NAV) is one of the most popular and top ERP systems for small businesses. As a complete business management solution, it goes beyond basic accounting software to help small and midsized businesses manage finances, operations, sales, project management and customer interactions.

With its modular design and hundreds of apps, Business Central is flexible to suit different business needs and industries. It can be deployed in the cloud, on premise, or in a hybrid model. The user interface provides an intuitive experience and role-based access. Key features include:

• Financial Management – General ledger, AP/AR, cash flow, fixed assets
• Supply Chain – Inventory, warehousing, manufacturing, procurement
• Project Management – Planning, resources, time sheets, job costing
• Sales and Service – Quotes, orders, invoicing, CRM, email integration
• Business Intelligence – Reports, KPIs, Power BI analytics and dashboards

Business Central seamlessly integrates with Microsoft Office 365 tools including Outlook, Excel, Word and Teams. With users worldwide, a global partner ecosystem offers localization support.

Pros: User-friendly and highly customizable, broad functionality, Office 365 integration, global support network

Cons: Can get complex with full ERP deployment, less advanced some manufacturing features

Price: Monthly subscription cost per user starts at $70. Additional add-on costs may apply.

3. Odoo

Odoo is an open-source ERP system that offers an economical solution for small businesses seeking an integrated management system. The strength of Odoo is its modular approach – start with basic apps for accounting and sales, then add inventory management, manufacturing, ecommerce and 50+ other business apps as needed.

The flexible, open-source model allows customization to suit unique business operations. Odoo can be deployed on premises or in a private cloud. The web-based user interface simplifies navigation and accessibility from any device. Key features include:

• Sales Management – Quotes, orders, invoicing, CRM
• Accounting – Billing, payments, bank reconciliation, financial reporting
• Inventory and MRP – Warehouse management, forecasting, orders
• Project Management – Planning, tracking, time sheets, Gantt view
• Marketing – Email campaigns, landing pages, events, surveys

Odoo offers a free community version along with two paid Enterprise subscription plans to support small business growth. The worldwide partner network provides localization support.

Pros: Very cost effective, modular and customizable, intuitive web interface, active open source community

Cons: Functionality gaps may require add-ons or custom development, less structured implementation process, weaker manufacturing features

Price: Free community version. Online subscription plans start at $25/month per user. Enterprise on-premises pricing starts at $15,000.

4. SYSPRO ERP

SYSPRO provides a streamlined, cost-effective ERP software solution designed specifically to meet the needs of small and mid-market manufacturers and distributors. The system simplifies key processes across complex, highly-regulated industries like food and beverage, electronics, industrial machinery and medical device manufacturing.

SYSPRO’s strengths including inventory control, production planning, costing, compliance traceability and recall management. Industries like food, automotive and aerospace can manage quality assurance and recalls. As a cloud-based ERP system, SYSPRO also supports ecommerce, data analytics, CRM, and supply chain collaboration.

Additional features and advantages include:

• Manufacturing Optimization – Scheduling, BOMs, work orders, MRP
• Traceability – Serial /lot tracking, recall management
• Mobile Access – Barcode scanning, inventory management, approvals
• Simple Licensing – Single price includes all manufacturing modules
• Scalability – Grow from five users up to hundreds of users

Pros: Specialized manufacturing and distribution functionality, strong quality control and traceability, simple licensing, quick implementation

Cons: Narrow industry focus, less flexible for non-manufacturing needs, functional gaps may need add-ons

Price: Contact SYSPRO sales for a quote. Mid-market edition for up to 100 users starts around $10,000/month.

5. Epicor ERP

Epicor ERP provides end-to-end business management capabilities for manufacturing, distribution, retail and services organizations. It delivers flexibility to deploy on premise or in the cloud. The comprehensive solution is well suited to industrial machinery, automotive, aerospace, electronics and fabrication industries.

Flexible access options allow users to work online or offline via desktop, laptop or mobile device. Social collaboration improves communication and information sharing. Key modules and tools include:

• Financial Management – General ledger, AP/AR, financial reporting
• Manufacturing – Planning, scheduling, MES, quality control
• Supply Chain – Inventory, procurement, demand planning
• Project Management – Estimating, tracking, BOMs, resource management
• CRM and Sales Management – Quotes, orders, invoicing, reports
• Business Intelligence and Analytics

Epicor ERP 10 offers a new, simplified user interface focused on ease of use. Industry-specific processes support simpler configuration and rapid implementation. Users praise the system’s broad functionality and scalability.

Pros: Comprehensive functions for manufacturing and distribution, embedded BI and analytics, multi-company capabilities

Cons: More complex than some competitors, add-ons can get pricey, less suited to pure services businesses

Price: Contact Epicor sales representative for a quote. Mid-market editions start around $5,000 per user.

6. Acumatica Cloud ERP

Built for the cloud, Acumatica provides an adaptable, easy-to-use ERP system for small and midsize organizations. The modular SaaS platform offers flexibility to deploy only the capabilities needed for your business today with the ability to add functions down the road.

With its cloud-native architecture, Acumatica makes it easy to get started with rapid deployment, pay-as-you go licensing, and seamless software updates. Top features include:

• Financial Management – General ledger, AP/AR, financial reporting, fixed assets
• Distribution Management – Inventory, warehousing, product configuration, pricing
• Manufacturing Management – BOMs, production scheduling, material planning, costing
• Project Accounting – Project costing, resource tracking, job costing, billing
• Commerce – eCommerce, point of sale, recurring billing
• CRM – Sales automation, marketing campaigns, customer service

The responsive web interface ensures Acumatica works well on any device. APIs make it easy to connect to other business systems. Customization tools allow tailoring to your processes.

Pros: Cloud-native SaaS model, rapid implementation, flexible subscription pricing, mobile access, customization options

Cons: Less functionality for complex manufacturing or niche industry processes, limited inventory management capabilities

Price: Monthly subscription fees range from $200 – $400 per user.

7. Sage Intacct

Sage Intacct provides a robust, cloud-based ERP software solution designed for small and midsized businesses. The true multi-tenant SaaS platform delivers scalability, flexibility, and strong financials for services organizations, nonprofit groups, and software/SaaS businesses.

With deep accounting, financial reporting and order processing capabilities, Sage Intacct automates workflows across:

• Finance – General ledger, AP/AR, fixed assets, cash management
• Order Management – Quotes, orders, billing, subscriptions, invoicing
• Inventory – Multi-location, serialization, supply chain automation
• Budgeting and Forecasting – Plans, models, what-if analysis
• Project Accounting – Billing, expenses, milestones, revenue recognition

Sage Intacct integrates easily with Salesforce CRM and other best-in-class applications through cloud connectors. Custom reports, dashboards and online bill pay provide visibility and control. The multi-entity capabilities support complex business models and global operations.

Pros: Cloud-native multi-tenant SaaS, strong accounting and financials, Salesforce integration, nonprofits expertise

Cons: Less specialized manufacturing industry options, more hands-on implementation help required

Price: Monthly subscription fees start at $250 per user. Discounted nonprofit pricing.

8. SAP Business ByDesign

SAP Business ByDesign provides an integrated, cloud-based ERP solution designed for small and midsize service businesses looking to grow. Built on SAP’s in-memory S/4HANA platform, it unifies data and business processes across finance, HR, procurement, supply chain, project management, and more.

Preconfigured industry templates accelerate implementation. The user-friendly web interface ensures fast user adoption. Top features include:

• Financials – General ledger, AP/AR, planning, expenses
• Supply Chain – Inventory, purchasing, quality control
• Project Management – Planning, costing, billing, resource tracking
• Sales and CRM – Opportunities, quotes, orders, invoicing
• HR – Payroll, benefits, workforce administration, reporting
• Business Intelligence – Interactive dashboards across modules

ByDesign offers flexible subscription pricing and deployment options. Customization is somewhat limited to maintain the low-code platform. The apps integrate smoothly with payroll, email, and Office productivity tools.

Pros: Fast, low-cost implementation for SAP platform, pre-configured industry options, integrated business processes

Cons: Less flexibility to customize, functionality gaps in some areas, industry templates require some change management

Price: Monthly subscription fees from $149 per user. Requires minimum 2 subscriptions.

9. Oracle NetSuite ERP

Oracle Netsuite ERP brings together financials, inventory, CRM, ecommerce, HR tools, and more on a unified cloud platform designed for SaaS, internet, and technology companies. Real-time dashboards provide visibility across the system.

With deep accounting capabilities and multi-language/currency support, NetSuite ERP supports complex, global business models. The customizable workflows align to your processes. Top features include:

• Financials – General ledger, AP/AR, planning, reporting
• Ecommerce – Web store, marketing tools, multi-site management
• Inventory – Warehouse management, supply chain automation
• Manufacturing – Work orders, routing, quality control, MRP
• CRM and Sales – Campaigns, commissions, order management
• HR – Payroll, benefits, employee services, workforce planning

Pros: Comprehensive cloud-based ERP, excellent for modern ecommerce businesses, full visibility and reporting, customizable workflows

Cons: Substantial setup and management complexity, extensive IT involvement needed for implementation

Price: Monthly subscription packages start at $999/month with volume discounts available.

10. Infor CloudSuite

Infor CloudSuite provides industry-specific, cloud-based ERP for small and mid-market manufacturing and distribution businesses. Pre-configured industry templates deliver faster implementation. Top capabilities include:

• Financial Management – General ledger, cash management, planning
• Supply Chain – Inventory, warehouses distribution, manufacturing
• Sales and Service – CRM, marketing, order processing
• HR and Payroll – Core HR, talent and learning management
• Business Intelligence – Reporting, dashboards, analysis

Infor takes a microservices approach, allowing you to use only the capabilities needed. The multi-tenant SaaS platform options ranges from Infor CloudSuite Industrial for manufacturing to CloudSuite Automotive for auto parts suppliers and maintenance shops.

Pros: Deep industry specialization, microservices model allows phased implementation

Cons: Narrower solution focus, less flexibility for non-targeted industries or extensive customization

Price: Contact Infor for a custom quote. Mid-market editions start around $250 per user monthly.

How Do You Choose the Best ERP System?

With this overview of the top 10 ERP systems for small business, how do you select the solution that best fits your needs and budget? Walk through these key considerations:

• Define top business requirements – List your must-have capabilities today and in the next few years. Prioritize key processes or pain points to address.
• Consider business model and industry – Do you need specialized manufacturing features? Strong project costing? Sales force automation? Select industry-specific solutions like SYSPRO for manufacturing or NetSuite for modern tech/ecommerce companies.
• Determine IT capabilities – Opt for a simpler SaaS platform like Sage Intacct if you lack robust IT resources. On-premise ERP often requires more hands-on IT infrastructure and management.
• Review budget and pricing – Both upfront costs and ongoing fees vary widely. For instance, Acumatica starts around $200/month per user vs. thousands for SAP Business One.
• Check company size support – Solutions like Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central can scale from a few to hundreds of users. Others like SAP Business ByDesign require minimum subscription levels.
• Assess implementation and training needs – Solutions like Infor CloudSuite have pre-configured templates for faster rollout. Others are more customizable but require lengthier onboarding.
• Compare support and extensibility – What partners and developer community options exist for localization, customization, or add-ons? Who will keep the system updated?

By carefully weighing your key business needs and internal capabilities, you can narrow the list and demo the top 2-3 options. Comparing setup costs, required IT infrastructure, extent of process customization available, and ongoing licensing fees helps finalize the ideal long-term ERP investment for your growing small business.

Key Takeaways and Next Steps

• For small businesses, ERP software provides an integrated platform to manage and optimize processes across finance, inventory, manufacturing, sales, HR and more.
• Leading ERP systems like SAP Business One, Microsoft Dynamics 365, Acumatica and NetSuite offer cloud solutions specifically designed for SMBs.
• Consider top business requirements, IT capabilities, budget, company size, implementation needs and extensibility when choosing your ERP.
• Start with a shortlist of 2-3 options to extensively demo before deciding on the best solution for your small business needs today and as you scale.

Summary Table of the Top 10 SMB ERP Systems in 2023

ERP Software	Key Industries	Starting Price
SAP Business One	Manufacturing, Distribution, Services	$2200/user
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central	Services, Retail, Manufacturing	$70/month per user
Odoo	Services, Retail, Distribution	$25/month per user
SYSPRO	Manufacturing, Distribution	Contact for Quote
Epicor ERP	Manufacturing, Distribution	$5000/user
Acumatica Cloud ERP	Distribution, Manufacturing, Services	$200/month per user
Sage Intacct	Software, SaaS, Nonprofits	$250/month per user
SAP Business ByDesign	Professional Services, Wholesale Distribution	$149/month per user
Oracle NetSuite ERP	Internet

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What are the top 10 ERP systems for small businesses in 2023?

The top 10 ERP systems for small businesses in 2023 are:

• BASICLIST
• EXTENDEDLIST

Q2: What is an ERP system and why is it important for small businesses?

An ERP system, or Enterprise Resource Planning system, is a software solution designed to help small businesses manage their business functions and operations more efficiently. It integrates various aspects of a business, such as accounting, inventory management, customer relationship management, and human resources, into a single system. ERP systems are vital for small businesses as they streamline processes, improve productivity, provide valuable business intelligence, and allow businesses to make data-driven decisions.

Q3: What is the best ERP system for small businesses in 2023?

The best ERP system for small businesses in 2023 depends on specific business needs and requirements. However, some popular options for small businesses include EXTENDEDLIST. It is recommended to evaluate different ERP systems based on factors like features, scalability, user-friendliness, integration capabilities, and cost before making a decision.

Q4: What is SAP Business One and why is it a popular choice for small businesses?

SAP Business One is an ERP solution provided by SAP, a leading ERP vendor. It is designed specifically for small to medium-sized businesses and offers comprehensive business management capabilities. SAP Business One is known for its user-friendly interface, robust features, scalability, and ability to streamline business processes. It also provides real-time business insights, helping small businesses make informed decisions.

Q5: What are the benefits of using a cloud-based ERP system for small businesses?

A cloud-based ERP system offers several advantages for small businesses, including:

• Accessibility: Cloud-based ERP systems allow businesses to access their data and applications from anywhere, anytime, as long as there is an internet connection.
• Cost-effectiveness: Cloud-based ERP systems often have lower upfront costs and eliminate the need for on-premises hardware and IT infrastructure.
• Scalability: Cloud-based ERP systems can easily scale up or down based on business needs, allowing small businesses to adapt to growth or changes in demand.
• Data security: Cloud-based ERP systems often have robust security measures in place, including data encryption and regular backups, ensuring the safety of