The 5 Best Bill of Materials (BOM) Management Software of 2025

What is a Bill of Materials (BOM)? A Quick Primer

A Bill of Materials (BOM) is essentially a comprehensive list of all the raw materials, components, assemblies, sub-assemblies, and quantities of each needed to manufacture a finished product. Think of it as the recipe for your product. It's far more than just a shopping list; it's a structured document that defines exactly what goes into creating what you sell.

BOMs come in different flavors. A single-level BOM only shows the immediate components needed to make a product. A multi-level BOM goes deeper, detailing sub-assemblies and the materials they require. Then there are engineering BOMs (EBOMs), which focus on the technical design, and manufacturing BOMs (MBOMs), which are geared toward production processes. Understanding the nuances between these types is crucial for choosing the right BOM management software.

A well-maintained BOM acts as the backbone of your manufacturing process, driving accuracy, efficiency, and cost control. Without it, you risk errors in production, delays, and frustrated teams.

Why You Need BOM Management Software in 2025

The manufacturing landscape is evolving rapidly. Increased complexity, global supply chain disruptions, and rising customer expectations demand more than spreadsheets and manual processes to manage your Bill of Materials (BOM). In 2025, relying on outdated methods simply isn's sustainable. Here's why BOM management software is no longer a "nice-to-have," but a critical investment for businesses of all sizes:

• Enhanced Accuracy & Reduced Errors: Human error is inevitable with manual BOM creation and updates. Software minimizes errors, ensuring the right parts are ordered, assembled, and shipped.
• Improved Cost Control: Real-time visibility into material costs, supplier pricing, and inventory levels allows for better purchasing decisions and reduces waste.
• Streamlined Manufacturing Processes: Centralized BOM data and automated workflows reduce bottlenecks, improve collaboration between teams (engineering, procurement, production), and accelerate time to market.
• Better Supply Chain Resilience: The past few years have highlighted the fragility of global supply chains. BOM software helps you identify alternative suppliers, track material availability, and proactively manage potential disruptions.
• Version Control & Traceability: Easily track revisions, understand who made changes and when, and quickly trace components back to their origins - essential for quality control and regulatory compliance.
• Scalability for Growth: As your business expands, a robust BOM management system can handle increased complexity and support your growth trajectory. Spreadsheets simply can't.

Key Features to Look for in BOM Software

Choosing the right BOM software isn't just about picking a name; it's about selecting a solution that genuinely addresses your business's needs. Here's what you should be looking for:

• Revision Control: BOMs are constantly evolving. Robust software needs to track changes, manage versions, and allow for easy rollback to previous iterations. This prevents costly mistakes due to outdated information.
• Real-Time Updates & Collaboration: Manufacturing isn't a solo effort. Your BOM software should facilitate seamless collaboration between engineering, purchasing, production, and other departments, with real-time updates visible to everyone involved.
• Cost Tracking & Analysis: Understanding the true cost of your products is crucial. The best BOM software provides detailed cost breakdowns, tracks material costs, and helps identify areas for cost optimization.
• Integration Capabilities: Your BOM shouldn't exist in a silo. Look for software that integrates with your ERP, MRP, CAD, and other existing systems to streamline workflows and avoid manual data entry.
• Customization & Reporting: Every business is unique. The software should allow for customization of fields, categories, and reporting to align with your specific processes and reporting requirements.
• Multi-Level Bill of Materials Support: Can it handle simple components, or does your product involve complex assemblies with numerous sub-components? The software should accommodate your level of complexity.
• Engineering Change Order (ECO) Management: A crucial feature for managing changes to your BOMs. The software should provide a structured process for requesting, approving, and implementing changes.
• User Permissions & Security: Control access levels to sensitive BOM data, ensuring only authorized personnel can make changes or view specific information.

1. Autodesk Fusion 360 Manage

Autodesk Fusion 360 Manage stands out as a comprehensive solution, especially well-suited for businesses already invested in the Autodesk ecosystem. It's more than just BOM management; it's a full product lifecycle management (PLM) platform.

What it Does: Fusion 360 Manage allows you to centrally manage your BOMs, revisions, engineering changes orders (ECOs), and related documentation. It fosters collaboration between design, manufacturing, and procurement teams, offering real-time visibility into product data. Think of it as a digital twin for your products, tracking every change and component.

Key Features:

• Centralized BOM Management: Easily create, modify, and track BOMs across multiple products.
• Revision Control: Robust revision history ensures you always have access to the correct version of your BOM.
• Engineering Change Management: Streamline the ECO process with built-in workflows and approvals.
• Collaboration Tools: Securely share data and communicate with internal and external stakeholders.
• Integration with CAD Software: Seamlessly integrates with Autodesk's design software (like Inventor, AutoCAD, and Fusion 360 itself), reducing data silos.
• Cloud-Based: Access your data from anywhere with an internet connection.

Who it's For: Fusion 360 Manage is ideal for manufacturers of all sizes, especially those heavily reliant on Autodesk's design tools. It's particularly beneficial for companies with complex product structures and strict revision control requirements. However, the breadth of features might make it slightly overwhelming for smaller businesses with simpler needs.

Pricing: Fusion 360 Manage operates on a subscription basis, with different tiers depending on the number of users and features required. Check the Autodesk website for the most up-to-date pricing details.

2. Ultriva BOM Control

Ultriva BOM Control stands out with its focus on advanced engineering change management and data governance. It's not just about tracking parts; it's about controlling the entire lifecycle of your BOM, from initial design to obsolescence. Their strength lies in integration - seamlessly connecting with your ERP, PLM, and MES systems to ensure data accuracy and consistency across all departments.

Key features include:

• Automated Change Management: Ultriva automates the process of requesting, reviewing, and approving engineering changes, reducing errors and speeding up implementation.
• Revision Control: Robust revision control capabilities ensure everyone is working with the correct version of the BOM, minimizing costly mistakes.
• Data Governance: Strong data governance features enforce standards and prevent unauthorized changes, maintaining data integrity.
• Engineering Workflow Automation: Streamlines complex engineering workflows, reducing manual intervention and increasing efficiency.
• Integration Capabilities: Extensive integration options with popular ERP and PLM systems.

Who is it for? Ultriva is an excellent choice for manufacturers with complex product configurations, stringent regulatory requirements, and a strong emphasis on engineering change management. While the implementation can be more involved, the long-term benefits in terms of efficiency and accuracy are substantial. It's often a good fit for mid-sized to large manufacturing businesses.

3. Propel BOM

Propel BOM distinguishes itself with a strong focus on collaboration and real-time updates, making it ideal for teams spread across different locations or departments. Its intuitive drag-and-drop interface simplifies BOM creation and modification, while advanced features like version control and approval workflows ensure accuracy and prevent costly errors. The software boasts excellent integration capabilities, connecting seamlessly with ERP, MRP, and PLM systems to create a holistic view of your manufacturing processes.

Key highlights include:

• Variant Management: Easily manage product variations with configurable BOMs.
• Engineering Change Management (ECM): Streamline change requests and approvals.
• Cost Rollup: Accurately track and analyze material costs at various levels.
• Customizable Reporting: Generate detailed reports to identify areas for improvement.
• Cloud-Based Accessibility: Access your BOMs anytime, anywhere.

While Propel BOM caters well to mid-sized to large manufacturing companies, its comprehensive feature set might be overwhelming for smaller businesses with simpler needs. Pricing is typically based on the number of users and BOMs managed.

4. Arena PLM

Arena PLM stands out as a robust solution particularly suited for complex, configurable products and industries like aerospace, defense, and medical devices. It's more than just a BOM management tool; it's a comprehensive Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) system that integrates BOM management with change management, workflow automation, and collaboration features.

What truly differentiates Arena PLM is its focus on configuration. It excels at managing product variations and options, ensuring that the correct components and instructions are always associated with the specific product build. This is achieved through powerful configuration management capabilities that allow for intricate product structures and dependencies.

Key Strengths:

• Advanced Configuration Management: Handles incredibly complex product configurations with ease.
• Workflow Automation: Automates BOM approval processes and change management workflows.
• Collaboration Tools: Facilitates seamless collaboration between engineering, manufacturing, and procurement teams.
• Integration Capabilities: Integrates with popular ERP, CAD, and MES systems.
• Change Management: Built-in tools for tracking and managing BOM changes effectively.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Complexity: The extensive feature set can be overwhelming for smaller businesses or those with simpler BOM requirements.
• Cost: Arena PLM tends to be more expensive than some of the more focused BOM management tools.
• Implementation Time: Due to its comprehensive nature, implementation can be a more involved process.

Who is it best for? Companies dealing with highly configurable products, needing robust change management, and seeking a full PLM solution. They typically operate in industries with stringent regulatory requirements and complex supply chains.

5. DELMIAworks

DELMIAworks by Dassault Systèmes is a comprehensive Manufacturing Operations Management (MOM) solution, and its BOM management capabilities are a key component. It's more than just a BOM tool; it's designed to connect your entire manufacturing process, from engineering to shop floor execution.

Key Strengths:

• Integrated Manufacturing Execution System (MES): DELMIAworks excels because it's not just a BOM system operating in isolation. It's deeply integrated with other MES functions like work instructions, quality management, and production scheduling. This holistic view allows for seamless data flow and improved operational efficiency.
• Advanced Engineering Change Management: The software provides robust change management workflows, ensuring that all BOM revisions are tracked, approved, and communicated effectively across departments. This minimizes errors and delays caused by outdated information.
• Finite Capacity Scheduling: Optimize production schedules by considering machine capacity and resource availability, directly impacting BOM usage and material planning.
• Configurable BOM Structure: Support for multi-level BOMs, variant management, and option configurations caters to complex product assemblies.
• Cloud-Based Accessibility: The cloud-based platform allows access from anywhere, facilitating collaboration across geographically dispersed teams.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Complexity & Implementation: DELMIAworks is a powerful system, but its breadth and depth can make implementation complex and potentially require specialized expertise. It's a larger investment than some of the more focused BOM tools.
• Cost: As a comprehensive MES solution, DELMIAworks tends to be pricier than simpler BOM management systems. It's best suited for mid-sized to large manufacturing companies.

Ideal For: Manufacturing companies looking for a complete MES solution that tightly integrates BOM management with other production processes, particularly those with complex product configurations and a need for advanced planning and scheduling capabilities.

6. ChecklistGuro: BPM-Powered BOM Management for End-to-End Visibility

While we're proud to be recognized as an 6th option in this curated list, we believe ChecklistGuro offers a uniquely powerful approach to BOM management. We're not just a BOM tool; we're a Business Process Management (BPM) platform that allows you to completely map, automate, and control your entire product lifecycle, with BOM management as a central, highly visible component.

Unlike traditional BOM software, ChecklistGuro lets you integrate your BOM data with other critical processes, such as:

• Engineering Change Management (ECM): Automate and track changes to your BOM, ensuring everyone is working with the latest version.
• Procurement: Streamline your purchasing process based on BOM requirements and track supplier performance.
• Manufacturing: Connect your BOM directly to your manufacturing execution system (MES) for accurate production planning and execution.
• Quality Control: Integrate quality checks directly into your BOM workflows, ensuring adherence to specifications.

Key Benefits with ChecklistGuro:

• Complete Visibility: See your BOM data within the context of your broader business processes.
• Automated Workflows: Reduce errors and improve efficiency with automated task assignments and notifications.
• Enhanced Collaboration: Centralize information and facilitate communication across teams.
• Real-Time Data: Access up-to-date information to make informed decisions.
• No-Code/Low-Code Platform: Easily customize and adapt your BOM workflows to meet your specific needs.

ChecklistGuro is ideal for manufacturers of all sizes looking to move beyond simple BOM tracking and unlock the full potential of their product data.

Implementing BOM Software: Best Practices

Transitioning to a new BOM management system can be transformative, but a poorly executed implementation can lead to frustration and lost productivity. Here's a breakdown of best practices to ensure a smooth and successful rollout:

1. Define Your Needs & Goals: Before even evaluating software, clearly outline why you need BOM management. What specific problems are you trying to solve? (e.g., inaccurate costing, version control issues, difficulty tracking component changes). This clarity will guide your software selection and implementation strategy.

2. Data Migration & Cleansing: Your existing BOM data is likely scattered across spreadsheets, databases, and potentially even paper. A clean and accurate data migration is critical. Invest time in cleansing existing data - removing duplicates, correcting errors, and standardizing units of measure. Poor data in = poor results out.

3. Phased Rollout: Don't try to switch everything over at once. Consider a phased rollout, starting with a single product line or department. This allows you to identify and address issues in a controlled environment before a company-wide implementation.

4. User Training & Adoption: Software is only as good as the people using it. Thorough training for all relevant personnel (engineers, purchasing, manufacturing) is essential. Emphasize the benefits of the new system and provide ongoing support. Champion users can help drive adoption and address concerns.

5. Integration with Existing Systems: Seamless integration with your ERP, MRP, and CAD systems will maximize efficiency and reduce data silos. Ensure the software can communicate effectively with these platforms to automate workflows and minimize manual data entry.

6. Establish BOM Governance: Define clear roles and responsibilities for managing the BOM. Who's responsible for creating new BOMs? Who approves changes? Consistent governance ensures data accuracy and prevents unauthorized modifications.

7. Regular Audits & Updates: BOMs are dynamic - they change as designs evolve and components are updated. Regularly audit your BOMs for accuracy and completeness, and update them promptly to reflect changes. Schedule periodic reviews to optimize processes and identify areas for improvement.

Resources & Links

• Gartner: Gartner provides research and advisory services related to IT and business. Their reports on manufacturing ERP and PLM systems (which often include BOM management) can offer valuable context and comparisons for software selection. Useful for understanding industry trends and market positions.
• Capterra: Capterra is a software review platform. Their user reviews and comparisons provide direct feedback on BOM management software from real users. Search for 'Bill of Materials' or related terms to find relevant reviews and ratings.
• G2: Similar to Capterra, G2 is a software review platform. It offers detailed user reviews, ratings, and comparisons of BOM management software. Pay attention to 'Grid' reports for deeper insights.
• Thomasnet: Thomasnet is a B2B marketplace for industrial suppliers and manufacturers. Provides articles, resources, and directories related to manufacturing processes and technologies, including BOM management. Good for understanding industry context.
• Manufacturing.com: Manufacturing.com offers a wide range of resources for manufacturers, including articles, webinars, and case studies. Search for articles specifically about Bill of Materials (BOM) management to gather information on best practices and industry trends.
• ISO (International Organization for Standardization): While not directly about BOM software, ISO standards (e.g., ISO 27001 for information security, ISO 9001 for quality management) can be relevant if software vendors emphasize compliance with these standards. Useful for understanding data management security & process control.
• Supply Chain Digital: This website covers a wide range of topics in the supply chain, including BOM management. Provides insights into industry trends and best practices.
• Digitsole: Digitsole offers cloud-based product lifecycle management (PLM) software that includes BOM management functionality. Offers perspective on solutions that bridge design and manufacturing.
• Infor: A large ERP provider often integrating BOM management features. Provides a broader perspective on how BOMs fit into larger enterprise systems. Good for understanding the 'big picture'.
• Oracle: Similar to Infor, Oracle is a major ERP vendor with capabilities extending to BOM management. Provides insights into enterprise-level BOM management.
• NetSuite: NetSuite is a cloud-based ERP system that includes BOM management functionality. Good for understanding how BOMs are managed in a unified business platform.
• Propel PLM: Propel PLM offers a cloud-based PLM solution that focuses on simplifying product development, including robust BOM management. Useful for seeing a PLM-centric approach to BOM.
• Autodesk: While primarily known for CAD software, Autodesk offers some solutions that impact BOM management, especially within the design and engineering workflow. Provides perspective on the design-to-manufacturing connection.