Epicor Eclipse vs Inform ERP

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Our analysts compared Epicor Eclipse vs Inform ERP based on data from our 400+ point analysis of Distribution Software, user reviews and our own crowdsourced data from our free software selection platform.

Epicor Eclipse Software Tool

Product Basics

Epicor Eclipse is an enterprise resource planning (ERP) software designed for mid-market distributors. It streamlines core operations like inventory management, order fulfillment, and warehouse logistics, providing real-time visibility and control across the supply chain. Its robust features cater to complex distribution needs, including multi-location inventory, advanced pricing rules, and kitting and assembly functionalities. Eclipse's strengths lie in its tight integration between modules, facilitating seamless data flow and eliminating manual work. Users praise its intuitive interface, customizable dashboards, and efficient reporting tools. Compared to similar ERP systems, Eclipse is lauded for its scalability, adaptability to diverse industry requirements, and proactive customer support. Pricing for Eclipse varies based on the specific modules chosen, company size, and implementation needs. It typically follows a tiered subscription model with annual or multi-year contracts. While not the most budget-friendly option, Eclipse's comprehensive functionality and potential for increased efficiency often justify the investment for distributors seeking to optimize their operations and gain a competitive edge.

Pros
  • Streamlined workflows
  • Real-time visibility
  • Scalable & adaptable
  • Good customer support
  • Reduces manual work
Cons
  • High upfront cost
  • Complex initial setup
  • Limited customization options
  • Reporting can be tricky
  • Integration costs for add-ons
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Inform ERP is a software solution that helps with distribution, production and financial activities. It integrates these processes to automate and streamline operations across various aspects of a business. Its financial management tool coordinates with production workflows so that as transactions are made, they are automatically inputted to the general ledger. It also allows users to plan transportation logistics and look at factors such as volume and necessary stops when planning routes.

This program further enables users to optimize the supply chain through visualization and control of a variety of processes. Users can benefit from personalized dashboards that leverage real-time data so that quicker and more relevant insights can be developed.
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$150/User, Monthly
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Tailored to your specific needs
$10,000 One-Time
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Tailored to your specific needs
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Windows
Mac
Linux
Android
Chromebook
Windows
Mac
Linux
Android
Chromebook
Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile
Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile

Product Assistance

Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars
Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
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Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
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Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support
Email
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24/7 Live Support

Product Insights

  • Boost Scalability: Scale from tens to thousands of users as the business expands. Access data or manage warehouses from anywhere with multi-cloud deployment. 
  • Grow Margins: Gain more control over warehouse tasks with the integrated wireless warehouse application. Maximize profit with the product prices recommended by the strategic pricing feature. 
  • Improve Productivity: Delegate work queues and manage warehouse activities. Work remotely with mobile apps. Expedite operation and save time with centralized tasks. Allow employees to focus on the customers and enrich the consumer experience. 
  • Increase Sales: Gain repeat customers by providing competitive customer service. Drive sales with eCommerce and get more customers in and out the door with quick order entry. Close more deals by serving customers in a mobile environment. 
  • Optimize Inventory Management: Track product life cycles, tap into third-party providers for optimal pricing, calculate price points between channels and use inventory insights to align the demand and supply ratio for effective inventory management.Ensure effective inventory management by aligning the demand and supply ratio. 
  • Improve Visibility: Get real-time visibility from forecasting to order fulfillment. Promote better supply chain management with advanced demand forecasting and automated replenishment, ensuring improved visibility. 
  • Manage Warehouse Tasks: Manage warehouse tasks including stock replenishment, putting away the expired items, inventory adjustments, cycle counts and more. It empowers workers with simple tools for problem-solving, which ensures effective warehouse management. 
  • Achieve Higher Customer Satisfaction: Manage long-term contract pricing for loyal customers and create a consistent and seamless consumer experience. 
  • Make Informed Decisions: Stay up-to-date with the changing landscape and make data-driven decisions to remain competitive in the marketplace. 
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  • Paperless Workflows: Inform ERP includes electronic signature and electronic document scanning functionality. The system can also store documents such as product images, material safety data sheets (MSDS) and descriptions. 
  • Increased Productivity: This program can increase productivity through its demand planning tool, which forecasts material and production needs. The system also contains the ability to make orders into quotes and to create price inquiries with just one click, therefore reducing the amount of time that employees spend on these tedious tasks. 
  • Automation: Automation is a driving factor of increased productivity and, by extension, increased revenue. An example of how Inform ERP uses automation to its benefit is through its financial management tool, which archives important documents and posts transactions to the general ledger automatically. 
  • Improved Customer Relationships: The Embedded CRM tool allows users to keep track of important customer information. By using and sharing this data, employees can hone their sales tactics and improve customer relationships through more personalized and targeted conversations. 
  • Insight Development: This program uses real-time data and customizable dashboards to help users manage workflows such as sales and production. It includes drill-down functionality that allows users to find the specific data that they need to access. 
  • Accessibility: Inform ERP is available both on-premise and as a cloud-based solution. This makes the program accessible to a wide variety of businesses. If cloud deployment is opted for, the program can be accessed anytime and anywhere as long as there is an internet connection. 
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  • Customer Relationship Management: Access customer data from a mobile device, manage contacts, loyalty programs and more with an intuitive interface. 
  • Supply Chain Management:  Manage discontinued inventory and the supply chain from forecasting to fulfillment. 
  • Job Management: Handle quotes, orders, returns and progress billings. Quickly find product information using the mobile barcode reader or iBeacon. Build, manage and submit bids to the system for anywhere in the showroom.  
  • Integration: Integrate with other in-house applications, internet content, websites and third parties with API capabilities. 
  • Use System-Wide Business Management: Reduce supply chain costs, increase sales and improve customer service with in-built best practices for distribution operations. 
  • Control Warehouse Process:  Manage warehouse tasks including stock replenishment, putting away expired items, inventory adjustments, cycle counts and more. Empower workers with simple tools for problem-solving and ensure effective warehouse management. Manage activities such as picking, receiving, inventory adjustments, put-away and cycle counts. Give users the freedom to access these features anywhere, anytime. Use with Android devices. 
  • Data Analytics: Collaborate data analytics with the base modules for interactive dashboards and visual analytics. Eliminate the need for tedious and error-prone manual reporting processes with automation. 
  • Deployment: Install the system on-premise and take control over the infrastructure or host on the cloud. Access key business processes like CRM, order management, inventory management, business intelligence and more with mobile devices and cloud-based solutions. 
  • Freight Audit Queue: Minimize logistical expenses by preventing overbilling and other financial problems. Optimize paths, identify opportunities, review patterns with IT and human analytics. Automate processes and simplify logical operations. 
  • Procurement Management: Create a model based on the plan and make modifications based on further analysis. Manage more resources and make them available at the right time. Reduce cost and enhance transparency and efficiency. 
  • Demand Forecasting: Improve inventory management and optimize production planning by gaining real-time data with IoT sensors.Enhance data accessibility across the supply chain and boost collaboration between departments with accurate forecasts. 
  • Deployment: Install the system on-premise and take control over the infrastructure or host on the cloud. Access key business processes like CRM, order management, inventory management, business intelligence and more with mobile devices and cloud-based solutions. 
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  • Financial Management: Inform ERP contains accounts payable, accounts receivable and bank reconciliation functionality. It gives users access to financial reports and allows them to perform tasks such as posting transactions to the general ledger as they occur. The program also contains the ability to archive documents such as invoices, financial reports and statements automatically. 
  • Inventory Management: This feature enables users to visualize inventory information such as purchase orders, availability, returned goods and open orders. It also allows for adjustment to sporadic demand and can balance warehouse overstocks. The advanced demand planning and forecasting tool contains a real-time replenishment calculation that facilitates adjustment to actual demand. 
  • Order Fulfillment: Inform ERP lets users make quotes into orders with the click of a button. Defective parts can be tracked through the system along with vendor reimbursement claims. The customer checkout process is streamlined through PCI-compliant card processing. 
  • Embedded CRM: This program enables users to gather relevant customer information such as purchase history, order status and personal notes to assist in the personalization and improvement of the customer experience. It can also create order entries and price inquiries with one click. Individual and group calendars are included in the program so that staff can look at operations and sales opportunities in real-time. 
  • Analytics and Reporting: Inform ERP’s reporting dashboards are customizable and can be segmented by user level. The Inventory Pivot Table Cube Editor allows users to manage stock transfers. The program also leverages real-time data and includes drill-down menus so that users can find relevant information. 
  • Warehouse Logistics: With this tool, users can assign transportation to orders. Delivery routes can also be created while keeping factors such as weight, volume and necessary stops in mind. Additionally, users can create and print manifests and shipping documents through this feature. 
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Product Ranking

#59

among all
Distribution Software

#124

among all
Distribution Software

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Analyst Rating Summary

82
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100
72
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50
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Inventory Management
Accounting and Financial Management
Reports, Dashboards and Business Intelligence
Mobile capabilities
Purchase Order Management and Procurement
Accounting and Financial Management
Customer Relationship Management
Inventory Management
Mobile capabilities
Purchase Order Management and Procurement

Analyst Ratings for Functional Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

Epicor Eclipse
Inform ERP
+ Add Product + Add Product
Accounting And Financial Management Customer Relationship Management E-commerce Capabilities Integrations And Extensibility Inventory Management Mobile Capabilities Purchase Order Management And Procurement Reports, Dashboards And Business Intelligence Sales Order Management Warehouse And Transportation Management 91 72 83 44 94 87 87 88 80 77 100 99 50 39 99 97 97 94 80 96 0 25 50 75 100
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86%
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67%
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94%
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89%
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11%
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90%
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91%
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91%
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31%
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User Sentiment Summary

Great User Sentiment 140 reviews
Excellent User Sentiment 72 reviews
85%
of users recommend this product

Epicor Eclipse has a 'great' User Satisfaction Rating of 85% when considering 140 user reviews from 5 recognized software review sites.

91%
of users recommend this product

Inform ERP has a 'excellent' User Satisfaction Rating of 91% when considering 72 user reviews from 2 recognized software review sites.

3.9 (27)
3.7 (5)
5.0 (2)
4.6 (67)
4.2 (4)
n/a
4.4 (76)
n/a
4.1 (31)
n/a

Awards

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SelectHub research analysts have evaluated Inform ERP and concluded it earns best-in-class honors for Accounting and Financial Management and Customer Relationship Management. Inform ERP stands above the rest by achieving an ‘Excellent’ rating as a User Favorite.

User Favorite Award
Accounting and Financial Management Award
Customer Relationship Management Award

Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

Improved Inventory Visibility: Gain real-time insights into stock levels across locations for better management and reduced lead times.
Streamlined Order Management: Simplify order processing from quotes to returns with a centralized platform.
Enhanced Warehouse Efficiency: Optimize operations with barcode scanning, pick-and-pack functionality, and shipping management tools.
Actionable Insights: Make data-driven decisions with comprehensive reporting and analytics dashboards.
Seamless Integration: Eliminate data silos with integration capabilities connecting Eclipse to other enterprise systems.
Scalability and Growth: Accommodate future business expansion with a scalable platform that adapts to changing demands.
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Comprehensive Functionality: Inform ERP provides a wide range of features that cater to various aspects of distribution businesses, including inventory management, order processing, financials, and customer relationship management. This comprehensive functionality eliminates the need for multiple software solutions, streamlining operations and reducing complexity.
Industry-Specific Focus: Inform ERP is specifically designed for distributors, with features and functionalities tailored to their unique needs. This industry-specific focus ensures that the software aligns with the workflows and processes of distribution businesses, providing a more efficient and effective solution.
Scalability and Flexibility: Inform ERP is a scalable solution that can grow with the needs of a business. It offers flexible deployment options, including on-premise, cloud-based, and hybrid models, allowing businesses to choose the best fit for their infrastructure and budget.
User-Friendly Interface: Inform ERP features a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate and learn. This intuitive design reduces training time and allows users to quickly become proficient with the software, improving productivity and user adoption.
Strong Reporting and Analytics: Inform ERP provides robust reporting and analytics capabilities, enabling businesses to gain insights into their operations and make data-driven decisions. Users can generate custom reports, track key performance indicators (KPIs), and analyze trends to identify areas for improvement.
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Implementation Complexity: Initial setup and configuration can be complex, requiring significant IT resources and expertise.
Customization Costs: Extensive customization can be expensive, especially for businesses with unique needs.
Steep Learning Curve: The platform has a steep learning curve, requiring user training and ongoing support.
Limited Reporting Flexibility: While reporting capabilities are comprehensive, some users may find them inflexible for specific needs.
Integration Challenges: Integrating with certain third-party applications can be complex and require additional development.
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Customization Challenges: Making modifications to Inform ERP to fit specific business needs can be complex and time-consuming, often requiring specialized developer skills. This can lead to frustration for businesses with unique workflows or industry-specific requirements.
Reporting Limitations: Generating reports and extracting data from Inform ERP can be cumbersome, with limited built-in reporting tools and a steep learning curve for creating custom reports. This can hinder data analysis and decision-making processes.
User Interface: The user interface of Inform ERP can feel outdated and clunky, leading to a less-than-optimal user experience. Navigating through the system and finding specific functions can be challenging, especially for new users.
Integration Complexities: Integrating Inform ERP with other business systems, such as CRM or e-commerce platforms, can be a complex undertaking. This can create data silos and hinder overall business efficiency.
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Epicor Eclipse receives mixed reviews from users, with praise for its comprehensive features and positive impact on business efficiency, but criticism for its complex implementation and steep learning curve. Many users find its real-time inventory visibility and centralized order management particularly valuable, enabling them to optimize stock levels, streamline operations, and improve customer service. One user noted, “Inventory management has become much more efficient, and we've seen a significant reduction in lead times.” Others appreciate its reporting and analytics capabilities, highlighting actionable insights for data-driven decision-making. However, some users find initial set-up and configuration demanding, requiring significant IT resources and expertise. This complexity, coupled with the platform’s steep learning curve, can lead to frustration and hinder adoption. Additionally, while customization options are available, they can be costly and time-consuming, making them less appealing for smaller businesses or those with limited budgets. When compared to similar products like NetSuite and Microsoft Dynamics 365, Epicor Eclipse often stands out for its industry-specific functionalities and focus on distribution needs. One user commented, "Compared to NetSuite, Eclipse offers a more robust warehouse management system and better support for our specific industry requirements." However, these strengths come at the cost of ease of use and implementation simplicity, making it a less attractive option for businesses seeking a more user-friendly solution. Ultimately, user experience with Epicor Eclipse depends on individual needs and priorities. Those seeking a comprehensive and industry-specific solution with strong inventory management capabilities are likely to find it valuable, despite its implementation challenges. However, businesses requiring a more user-friendly and readily deployable system may find alternatives like NetSuite or Microsoft Dynamics 365 to be a better fit.

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Inform ERP receives praise for its robust functionality and adaptability, particularly in managing complex distribution operations. Users appreciate its ability to handle diverse tasks, from inventory and order management to financials and reporting. Its strength lies in providing a comprehensive solution that streamlines processes and enhances efficiency. However, some users note that the initial setup and learning curve can be challenging due to the system's extensive features. Inform ERP distinguishes itself by offering industry-specific modules and customization options, allowing businesses to tailor the software to their unique requirements. This flexibility is crucial for companies with specialized workflows or niche markets. While Inform ERP excels in functionality, some users mention that the user interface could be more intuitive and modern. Despite this, the software's strengths in customization, scalability, and industry-specific features make it a valuable tool for mid-sized to large distributors and manufacturers with complex operational needs. Its ability to adapt to evolving business requirements ensures long-term value and supports growth.

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