Top 10 Infor Alternatives for 2025

Introduction: Why Consider an Infor Alternative?

Infor has long been a significant player in the ERP and business management software landscape, particularly for specific industries. However, the business world is constantly evolving, and what worked yesterday might not be the best solution for the challenges of tomorrow. Several factors are pushing businesses to explore alternatives to Infor.

Firstly, Infor's pricing can be a significant barrier for smaller to mid-sized businesses. Implementation costs and ongoing maintenance fees can quickly add up, putting a strain on budgets. Secondly, while Infor has made strides in modernizing its platform, some users still find it complex and less user-friendly compared to newer, cloud-based solutions. The interface can feel dated, requiring extensive training and potentially impacting employee productivity.

Furthermore, businesses increasingly demand greater flexibility and scalability. Infor's solutions, while robust, might not always offer the agility needed to adapt to rapidly changing market conditions or accommodate unforeseen growth. Cloud-based alternatives often provide more accessible data, easier integrations, and a more responsive platform.

Finally, the ever-expanding array of specialized software available means businesses can now often address specific needs with best-of-breed solutions rather than relying on a monolithic ERP system. This targeted approach can lead to increased efficiency and better results in particular areas.

This article will explore ten compelling alternatives to Infor for 2025, taking into account these evolving business needs and highlighting the strengths each platform brings to the table. Whether you're experiencing pricing concerns, usability issues, or simply seeking a more modern and adaptable solution, keep reading to find the perfect fit for your organization.

Understanding Infor: Strengths and Limitations

Infor has long been a stalwart in the ERP and industry-specific software space, particularly known for its deep vertical focus. Its strength lies in its pre-built solutions tailored to specific industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and distribution. This means reduced implementation time and a head start compared to generic ERP systems. Infor's cloud-based offerings (Infor CloudSuite) have also improved accessibility and flexibility.

However, Infor isn't without its drawbacks. Historically, its user interface has been criticized as less intuitive compared to newer, more modern ERP platforms. The complexity of customization and integration, especially with legacy systems, can also be a significant challenge and drive up costs. Furthermore, the total cost of ownership, including licensing, implementation, and maintenance, can be substantial. While Infor has been working to modernize its offerings, it's essential to consider these limitations when exploring alternatives. The breadth of its specialized solutions means it may not be a good fit for businesses needing a broader, more customizable platform.

What to Look for in an Infor Alternative

When evaluating Infor alternatives, it's crucial to go beyond just feature lists. Consider your business's specific needs and future goals. Here's a breakdown of key areas to assess:

• Functionality & Modules: Infor is known for its breadth. Does the alternative offer the modules you currently use (or will need soon)? Think about finance, HR, manufacturing, supply chain, CRM, and more. Don't just look for a replacement for one department; consider the integrated nature of your business processes.
• Industry Specialization: Infor caters to specific industries. Does the alternative offer comparable industry-specific solutions, or will you need to customize heavily?
• Scalability: Will the solution grow with your business? Consider future expansion, increased data volume, and potential acquisitions.
• Integration Capabilities: Can the new system seamlessly connect with your existing tools and technologies (like your CRM, e-commerce platform, or legacy systems)? APIs and pre-built integrations are vital.
• Deployment Options: Do you prefer a cloud-based solution, on-premise deployment, or a hybrid approach? Evaluate the pros and cons of each.
• User Experience (UX): A complex system is only useful if your team can actually use it. Prioritize a user-friendly interface and intuitive workflows.
• Cost: Factor in not just the software licensing fees, but also implementation costs, training expenses, and ongoing maintenance. Look for hidden fees.
• Support & Training: What level of support is offered? Are comprehensive training resources available?
• Security: Data security is paramount. Assess the alternative's security measures and compliance certifications.
• Vendor Reputation & Stability: Research the vendor's history, customer reviews, and financial stability to ensure a long-term partnership.

1. NetSuite: The Cloud ERP Powerhouse

NetSuite consistently ranks as a top contender for businesses seeking to move away from Infor, and for good reason. As a comprehensive cloud ERP solution, it offers a breadth of functionality that covers financials, CRM, supply chain management, manufacturing, and more - all integrated within a single platform. This means no more siloed data and improved visibility across your entire operation.

What makes NetSuite particularly appealing is its scalability. Whether you're a growing SME or a large enterprise, NetSuite can adapt to your evolving needs. Its modular design allows you to implement only the modules you require initially, and then add more as your business expands.

Key Strengths:

• Unified Platform: Eliminates data silos and improves reporting accuracy.
• Scalability: Grows with your business.
• Automation: Streamlines workflows and reduces manual effort.
• Real-time Insights: Provides up-to-date data for informed decision-making.
• Strong Ecosystem: Extensive marketplace with pre-built integrations and add-ons.

Considerations: While NetSuite offers a lot, it's also one of the more expensive options, and implementation can be complex and time-consuming. Thorough planning and potentially engaging a NetSuite implementation partner are highly recommended.

2. Microsoft Dynamics 365: Integration and Scalability

Microsoft Dynamics 365 stands out as a powerful alternative, particularly for businesses already invested in the Microsoft ecosystem. Its modular design allows you to choose and implement only the applications your business needs, whether it's sales, service, finance, supply chain management, or manufacturing. This flexibility reduces implementation costs and allows for phased adoption.

One of Dynamics 365's greatest strengths lies in its deep integration with other Microsoft products like Power BI, Office 365, and Azure. This seamless connection simplifies data sharing, automation, and overall workflow efficiency. You can leverage Power BI for robust reporting and analytics, while automation capabilities within Power Automate can streamline repetitive tasks.

Scalability is another key advantage. As your business grows, Dynamics 365 can easily adapt to meet increasing demands. You can add users, modules, and functionalities without significant disruption. This makes it suitable for both small and large enterprises looking for a long-term, adaptable solution. While the cost can be a factor depending on the modules selected, the overall value proposition - particularly for Microsoft-centric businesses - is substantial. Consider a thorough needs assessment to ensure you're only implementing the necessary modules to optimize ROI.

3. SAP Business One: SMB Focused Solution

SAP Business One is a popular choice for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) looking for a comprehensive ERP solution. Unlike some of the more complex Infor systems, SAP Business One is designed with usability in mind, offering a more intuitive interface and faster implementation. It covers core business processes including financials, customer relationship management (CRM), supply chain management, manufacturing, and project management.

Key Strengths:

• Comprehensive Functionality: Offers a wide range of modules to cover most SMB needs.
• Scalability: Can grow with your business as your needs evolve.
• Integration: Integrates well with other SAP products and third-party applications.
• Reporting & Analytics: Provides robust reporting capabilities to monitor performance and make data-driven decisions.
• Industry-Specific Solutions: SAP offers tailored versions of Business One for specific industries, like food & beverage, retail, and professional services.

Potential Considerations:

• Cost: While generally more accessible than some larger ERP systems, SAP Business One can still represent a significant investment.
• Customization: While flexible, extensive customization may require additional development costs.
• Complexity: While user-friendly for an ERP system, it still requires training and a dedicated team to manage effectively.

It's a strong contender for businesses looking to centralize their operations and gain better visibility into their performance.

4. Oracle ERP Cloud: Comprehensive Functionality

Oracle ERP Cloud consistently ranks among the top enterprise resource planning (ERP) solutions, and for good reason. It's a robust, cloud-based system offering a truly comprehensive suite of functionalities. While often considered a larger investment and more complex to implement than some alternatives, the breadth of its capabilities makes it suitable for large, multinational organizations with intricate business processes.

What it Does: Oracle ERP Cloud covers a vast range of business functions, including Financials, Supply Chain Management, Human Capital Management, Manufacturing, Project Management, and Enterprise Asset Management. It's designed to integrate all these areas into a single, unified platform, providing real-time visibility and control across your entire operation.

Strengths: The core strength of Oracle ERP Cloud lies in its deep functionality and scalability. It's designed to handle enormous volumes of data and complex workflows. Its integration capabilities are exceptional, connecting not only internal departments but also external partners and suppliers. Furthermore, Oracle's continuous investment in innovation ensures the platform stays ahead of industry trends.

Considerations: The complexity of Oracle ERP Cloud is a significant consideration. Implementation can be lengthy and expensive, requiring a dedicated team and potentially significant process re-engineering. The user interface, while improving, can still feel overwhelming for some users. Cost is also a major factor, as Oracle is generally positioned as a premium solution.

Ideal For: Large enterprises with complex global operations, significant IT budgets, and a need for deep functional capabilities across numerous business areas.

5. Acumatica: Cloud ERP for Growing Businesses

Acumatica has steadily gained popularity as a robust cloud ERP solution, particularly appealing to fast-growing businesses that need scalability and flexibility. Unlike some legacy systems, Acumatica is built on a modern architecture, allowing for easier integration with other platforms and providing a more user-friendly experience.

Key Strengths:

• Comprehensive Functionality: It covers core business processes like finance, accounting, inventory management, order management, manufacturing, and CRM.
• Cloud-Based: Accessible from anywhere with an internet connection, promoting collaboration and remote work.
• Customization and Integration: Highly customizable with an open API, allowing businesses to tailor the system to their specific needs and connect it with existing applications.
• Real-Time Visibility: Provides real-time data and reporting, enabling informed decision-making.
• Flexible Licensing: Offers a consumption-based licensing model, which can be cost-effective for growing businesses.

Who it's a good fit for: Businesses experiencing rapid growth and requiring a flexible, cloud-based ERP system that can adapt to changing needs. It's particularly well-suited for companies in distribution, manufacturing, and service industries. While it caters to smaller businesses, it's also capable of handling the complexity of larger organizations.

6. Epicor: Industry-Specific Expertise

Epicor is a strong contender for businesses seeking a highly customizable ERP solution with a focus on industry-specific functionality. Unlike some broader ERP systems, Epicor offers specialized versions tailored for manufacturing, distribution, retail, and services. This means you'll find pre-built features and best practices directly applicable to your particular industry, reducing implementation time and costs.

Their strengths lie in areas like advanced production planning, inventory optimization, and supply chain management. Epicor also excels in supporting complex regulatory requirements often found in industries like food & beverage, automotive, and electronics. While known for its robust capabilities, Epicor's complexity can also be a challenge. It often requires a more experienced implementation partner and a dedicated team to manage and optimize its use. This makes it a great fit for mid-sized to larger companies with more sophisticated needs and resources. They've been increasingly investing in cloud capabilities, expanding accessibility and flexibility for users. Expect to see continued advancements in their IoT and data analytics integration as we move into 2025.

7. Sage Intacct: Finance and Accounting Focused

Sage Intacct shines as a cloud-based financial management system, particularly well-suited for businesses prioritizing robust accounting and reporting capabilities. Unlike Infor's broader ERP approach, Intacct focuses intensely on finance, offering features like multi-entity consolidation, automated workflows, and advanced reporting dashboards that provide deep visibility into your financial performance.

Key Strengths:

• Cloud-Native Architecture: Ensures accessibility, scalability, and automatic updates.
• Dimensional Accounting: Provides granular insights into your financials by linking transactions to specific dimensions (e.g., project, department, product line).
• Automated Workflows: Streamlines processes like invoice processing, revenue recognition, and purchase order approvals.
• Strong Reporting & Analytics: Offers customizable dashboards and reports for real-time financial insights.
• Integration Capabilities: Integrates well with other business systems like CRM and e-commerce platforms.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Limited Scope: If you need comprehensive ERP functionality beyond finance, Intacct might require integrations with other systems.
• Implementation Complexity: While cloud-based, proper implementation and data migration can still be complex and may require expert assistance.
• Cost: Can be more expensive than some alternatives, especially for smaller businesses.

Who Should Consider Sage Intacct? Businesses looking for a best-in-class financial management system and are willing to prioritize finance over a broader ERP suite. Companies with multiple entities or complex financial structures will especially benefit.

8. Odoo: Modular and Customizable

Odoo stands out for its incredible modularity and customization capabilities. Unlike some of the more rigid Infor solutions, Odoo operates on an app store model. You only implement the modules you need, and can easily add or remove them as your business evolves. This allows for a highly tailored experience, whether you're a small business needing basic inventory management or a large enterprise needing a complex, integrated suite.

Key strengths of Odoo include its CRM, sales, accounting, manufacturing, and project management modules, all seamlessly integrated. Its extensive marketplace offers a vast array of third-party apps to extend functionality further. While the sheer number of options can be initially daunting, the flexibility it provides is a major draw for businesses seeking fine-grained control over their software. Be prepared to invest time (or hire a consultant) to configure and customize Odoo to your precise needs, but the ROI can be substantial. Odoo's pricing is also worth noting - it's based on the number of users, which can be cost-effective for smaller teams but scale up significantly as you grow.

9. Plex: Manufacturing and Supply Chain Leader

Plex stands out as a particularly strong contender for manufacturers and companies with complex supply chain needs. Unlike some broader ERP solutions, Plex focuses heavily on discrete manufacturing, process manufacturing, and distribution. Their cloud-native platform offers a comprehensive suite of features including production planning, shop floor control, quality management, inventory management, and traceability - all tightly integrated.

What truly sets Plex apart is its focus on real-time data visibility. This allows for proactive problem-solving and rapid adjustments to production schedules based on current conditions. Their MES (Manufacturing Execution System) capabilities are also robust, offering detailed insights into manufacturing operations.

Who is Plex a good fit for? Companies in industries like automotive, aerospace & defense, food and beverage, and industrial machinery are likely to find Plex particularly beneficial. It's well-suited for organizations seeking a highly specialized and scalable solution designed specifically for manufacturing environments. While it's a powerful platform, be aware that its niche focus can mean a steeper learning curve for users accustomed to more general ERP systems. Expect a higher upfront investment due to its specialization, but potentially significant ROI through improved efficiency and reduced operational costs.

10. Cin7: Inventory and Order Management

Cin7 shines particularly bright for businesses heavily reliant on inventory and order management. It's a cloud-based platform designed to connect all aspects of your supply chain, from supplier relationships to customer fulfillment. Think of it as a central hub that synchronizes data across sales channels, warehouses, and even your accounting software.

Key Strengths:

• Robust Inventory Control: Real-time inventory visibility, lot tracking, serial number management, and kitting capabilities.
• Order Management Powerhouse: Automated order routing, shipping integrations, and order tracking for both B2B and B2C businesses.
• Manufacturing Focus: While not a full-blown ERP, Cin7's manufacturing modules offer features like work order management and production scheduling.
• Integration Capabilities: Easily connects with popular e-commerce platforms (Shopify, WooCommerce, Amazon), marketplaces, and accounting systems (Xero, QuickBooks).
• Scalability: Designed to grow with your business, handling increasing volumes of orders and inventory with ease.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Limited Core ERP Functionality: While excellent for inventory and order management, it lacks some of the broader ERP capabilities of other solutions.
• Implementation Complexity: Can be complex to set up and configure, especially for businesses with intricate processes.
• Cost: Pricing can be a factor for smaller businesses with limited budgets.

Who is it for? Cin7 is a strong contender for retailers, wholesalers, manufacturers, and distributors who need a best-in-class inventory and order management system.

11. ChecklistGuro: A Rising Star in BPM

Our list of Infor alternatives focuses on established players, but we'd be remiss not to mention a rapidly growing solution: ChecklistGuro. While perhaps not as widely recognized as some others listed, ChecklistGuro is making serious waves in the Business Process Management (BPM) space.

What is ChecklistGuro?

ChecklistGuro is a cloud-based BPM platform designed for businesses of all sizes, particularly those seeking a highly customizable and user-friendly solution. It differentiates itself with a strong focus on process automation, task management, and adherence to checklists and standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Why Consider ChecklistGuro?

• Process Automation Powerhouse: Design, automate, and manage workflows with ease. Offers robust conditional logic and integrations.
• Checklist-Driven: Perfect for industries where adherence to checklists and SOPs is critical (manufacturing, healthcare, compliance).
• User-Friendly Interface: Designed for rapid adoption and minimal training.
• Competitive Pricing: Offers attractive pricing models that can be more accessible for smaller to mid-sized businesses.
• Strong Integration Capabilities: Connects with popular business applications (Google Workspace, Microsoft Office 365, Slack, etc.).

Ideal For:

ChecklistGuro shines for organizations needing:

• Strict process control and compliance.
• A flexible and adaptable BPM platform.
• A cost-effective alternative to more complex or enterprise-level solutions.
• A platform where checklists and SOPs are core to their operations.

Choosing the Right Alternative: Key Considerations

Before diving headfirst into any of these alternatives, it's crucial to understand your business's specific needs and priorities. A one-size-fits-all solution simply doesn't exist. Here's a breakdown of key considerations to guide your decision-making process:

• Business Size & Complexity: A small business with a handful of employees will have vastly different requirements than a large enterprise managing hundreds. Consider the platform's scalability and its ability to handle your current and anticipated future growth.
• Industry Specific Needs: Some solutions are tailored to specific industries (manufacturing, healthcare, retail, etc.). Look for a platform with industry-specific modules, reporting, and regulatory compliance features.
• Core Functionality: Identify which core business processes you need to address. Are you primarily looking for ERP, CRM, HCM, SCM, or a combination? Prioritize alternatives that excel in those areas.
• Budget & ROI: Factor in not just the initial software costs, but also implementation fees, training expenses, and ongoing maintenance. Evaluate the potential return on investment (ROI) for each option.
• Integration Capabilities: Ensure the alternative integrates seamlessly with your existing software systems. Poor integration can lead to data silos and hinder operational efficiency.
• User Experience (UX): A user-friendly interface is essential for adoption and productivity. Consider the learning curve and overall ease of use for your team.
• Deployment Options: Decide whether you prefer a cloud-based (SaaS), on-premise, or hybrid deployment model. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, security, and control.
• Support & Training: Assess the vendor's support offerings and training resources. Reliable support is crucial for resolving issues and maximizing the platform's potential.
• Future-Proofing: Consider the vendor's commitment to innovation and their roadmap for future development. You want a solution that will remain relevant and adaptable to evolving business needs.

Conclusion: Future-Proofing Your Business

The landscape of business software is constantly evolving, and choosing the right system is a pivotal decision. While Infor has served many businesses well, the alternatives highlighted in this guide offer compelling reasons to consider a change, especially as we look towards 2025 and beyond.

Ultimately, the best alternative isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. It depends entirely on your specific business needs, industry, budget, and future growth plans. We encourage you to thoroughly research each option, request demos, and talk to existing users to ensure a successful implementation.

Don't be afraid to future-proof your operations. Embracing modern, adaptable software can unlock new efficiencies, improve decision-making, and drive sustainable growth for years to come. Consider how each platform's functionalities align with your long-term strategic goals, and remember that a well-chosen alternative can be a powerful investment in your business's future.

Resources & Links

• SAP - A leading enterprise resource planning (ERP) provider with a broad suite of solutions.
• Oracle - Offers a comprehensive portfolio of database, cloud infrastructure, and ERP applications.
• Microsoft Dynamics 365 - A cloud-based suite of business applications covering ERP, CRM, and more.
• NetSuite - Oracle NetSuite is a popular cloud ERP solution for mid-sized businesses.
• Epicor - Specializes in ERP solutions for manufacturing, distribution, retail, and services industries.
• Acumatica - A cloud-based ERP system known for its flexibility and scalability.
• Deltek - Focuses on project-based businesses, including construction, architecture, and engineering.
• Workday - Primarily known for its human capital management (HCM) and financial management solutions.
• Unit4 - Provides ERP solutions for service industries, including professional services, education, and healthcare.
• Sierra Systems - Offers a range of ERP and business management solutions, often tailored to specific industries.