The Ultimate IFS Cloud Review Of 2024

Welcome to SelectHub’s ultimate IFS Cloud review.

We’re here to provide you with a detailed tour and our unbiased perspective on IFS’s platform, commonly referred to as IFS Cloud.

If you’re more of a binge watcher than a bookworm, good news! We’ve also recorded a 10-part video series. Check out the first video in the IFS Cloud series below.

You’re here because you understand IFS Cloud is a significant player in the cloud market. Now, you’re evaluating its suitability for your business and how it compares to other options. This IFS Cloud review is here to guide you like a bloodhound on a hot trail. Let’s go.

What Does IFS Cloud Do?

IFS Cloud is a comprehensive ERP solution designed to help companies manage their business operations more effectively. It offers an integrated suite of applications that cover enterprise resource planning, enterprise asset management (EAM), field service management (FSM), and more.

Here is an overview of IFS Cloud’s key functions.

• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP): IFS Cloud provides comprehensive ERP functionality to manage core business processes, including finance, HR, manufacturing, and supply chain. This ensures streamlined operations and real-time visibility into key business metrics.
• Enterprise Asset Management (EAM): It offers robust tools for managing the entire asset lifecycle, from acquisition to disposal. This helps businesses maximize asset performance, minimize downtime, and reduce operational costs through proactive maintenance and asset tracking.
• Field Service Management (FSM): IFS Cloud excels in field service management with features like scheduling, dispatching, mobile workforce management, and service contract management. These tools enhance service delivery, improve customer satisfaction, and optimize field operations.
• Human Capital Management (HCM): The HCM module covers all aspects of workforce management, including recruitment, performance management, payroll, and employee development. This helps organizations attract, retain, and develop talent while ensuring compliance with labor laws.
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): IFS Cloud includes CRM capabilities to manage customer interactions, sales processes, and marketing campaigns. This enables businesses to build stronger customer relationships, improve sales performance, and enhance customer service.
• Project Management: It provides comprehensive project management tools to plan, execute, and monitor projects. Features include project scheduling, resource allocation, budgeting, and risk management, helping organizations deliver projects on time and within budget.
• Supply Chain Management (SCM): IFS Cloud offers end-to-end supply chain management solutions, including procurement, inventory management, and logistics. This ensures efficient supply chain operations, reduces costs, and improves inventory accuracy.
• Manufacturing Execution System (MES): The MES functionality integrates with shop floor systems to monitor and control manufacturing processes. This helps improve production efficiency, quality control, and real-time monitoring of manufacturing activities.
• Advanced Analytics and Reporting: IFS Cloud includes advanced analytics and reporting tools that provide real-time insights into business performance. These capabilities support data-driven decision-making and help identify opportunities for improvement.
• IoT and Automation: The platform integrates with IoT devices and supports automation to streamline operations and enhance efficiency. This includes predictive maintenance, real-time monitoring, and automated workflows.

By integrating these key aspects into a single system, IFS Cloud helps enterprises with a modern, easy-to-use design and robust functionality.

Many ERP platforms can achieve the outcomes listed above; however, there are several key differences that IFS Cloud claims to offer over its competitors, including the following.

• Industry-Specific Capabilities: IFS Cloud provides tailored functionalities for a wide range of industries, including aerospace and defense, energy and utilities, construction and engineering, and manufacturing. This industry-specific focus ensures that the platform can meet unique regulatory requirements and leverage best practices specific to each sector, offering more relevant and effective solutions than more generic ERP systems.
• Comprehensive Field Service Management: IFS Cloud excels in field service management, offering advanced tools for scheduling, dispatching, mobile workforce management, and service contract management. These FSM capabilities are more robust compared to many competitors, enabling companies to optimize their field operations and enhance customer service.
• Integrated Suite of Applications: Unlike some ERP solutions that may require multiple integrations or add-ons, IFS Cloud offers a fully integrated suite of applications, covering ERP, EAM, FSM, HCM, CRM, and more. This seamless integration allows for real-time data flow and comprehensive visibility across all business functions, reducing the need for third-party integrations and associated complexities.
• Advanced Asset Management: IFS Cloud provides comprehensive asset management capabilities that cover the entire asset lifecycle, from acquisition to disposal. This focus on asset-intensive environments is a key differentiator, as it helps businesses maximize asset performance, reduce downtime, and manage maintenance more effectively than many competitors who may offer only basic asset management features.
• User-Friendly Interface and UX: IFS Cloud is designed with an intuitive, user-friendly interface that enhances the user experience and reduces the learning curve. This focus on usability is a key differentiator, as it makes the system easier to adopt and use effectively, leading to higher user satisfaction and better overall performance.
• Comprehensive Project Management Tools: IFS Cloud offers robust project management tools that include project scheduling, resource allocation, budgeting, and risk management. These tools are designed to help organizations deliver projects on time and within budget, and are more comprehensive than the project management features offered by many competitors.
• Holistic Approach to ERP: IFS Cloud’s holistic approach integrates various business processes and functions into a single, cohesive platform. This holistic view allows for better coordination, improved decision-making, and enhanced operational efficiency, setting it apart from competitors that may offer more fragmented solutions.

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s get into our deep dive.

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In-Depth IFS Cloud Review

As a product that has been around for several years, IFS Cloud is highly regarded—but popularity doesn’t always make for a perfect fit. Read on to see who IFS Cloud is best suited for, who it’s not suited for, top features, pricing, alternatives, user feedback, and our final analyst review.

Who Is IFS Cloud Best Suited For?

IFS Cloud is best suited for mid-sized to large enterprises across various industries. Here are some examples of industries where IFS Cloud works best:

• Manufacturing: Automotive, industrial manufacturing, electronics, food & beverage.
• Aerospace and Defense: OEMs, MROs, operators.
• Energy, Utilities, and Resources: Power generation, oil and gas, renewables, water and wastewater.
• Construction and Engineering: Infrastructure, commercial construction, industrial construction.
• Telecommunications: Network operators, service providers, equipment manufacturers.
• Service Industries: Field service, facilities management, telecom.

Who Is IFS Cloud NOT Suited For?

As explained in the previous section, IFS Cloud works well across most verticals for businesses requiring an ERP that’s scalable and highly configurable.

Here are three scenarios in which IFS Cloud may not be a perfect fit.

• Industries outside of IFS’s 6 focus industries. Companies that aren’t in aerospace and defense, manufacturing, construction & engineering, energy, utilities & resources, telecommunications, and service industries.
• Small businesses: Smaller companies with simpler operations may find IFS Cloud too comprehensive and complex for their needs.
• Companies with limited IT resources: Implementing and maintaining IFS Cloud can require significant IT resources, which might be a constraint for some organizations.

Compare IFS Cloud to the Top Competitors

Top 10 IFS Cloud Features

IFS Cloud has a lot of features packed into one product. Here are the top 10 differentiating capabilities that SelectHub found in its review.

Integrated Suite of Applications

IFS Cloud offers a fully integrated suite of applications that cover ERP, EAM, FSM, HCM, CRM, and more. This integration allows for seamless data flow and real-time visibility across the entire organization.

Industry-Specific Functionalities

IFS Cloud offers industry-specific functionalities tailored to the unique needs of various industries. These functionalities ensure that businesses can leverage best practices and meet regulatory requirements specific to their industry.

Advanced Analytics and Reporting

IFS Cloud includes advanced analytics and reporting capabilities that provide real-time insights into business performance. These tools help organizations make data-driven decisions and operate more efficiently.

Field Service Management

IFS Cloud excels in field service management, offering tools for managing field service operations, scheduling and dispatching, mobile workforce management, and more. This is particularly valuable for service-centric industries.

Asset Management

IFS Cloud provides comprehensive asset management capabilities, allowing businesses to manage the entire asset lifecycle, from acquisition to disposal. This helps organizations maximize asset performance and reduce operational costs.

Get a Free Demo for IFS Cloud

Human Capital Management (HCM)

The HCM module covers all aspects of workforce management, including recruitment, performance management, payroll, and employee development. This helps organizations attract, retain, and develop talent while ensuring compliance with labor laws.

Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

IFS Cloud includes CRM capabilities to manage customer interactions, sales processes, and marketing campaigns. This enables businesses to build stronger customer relationships, improve sales performance, and enhance customer service.

Project Management

IFS Cloud provides comprehensive project management tools to plan, execute, and monitor projects. Features include project scheduling, resource allocation, budgeting, and risk management, helping organizations deliver projects on time and within budget.

IoT and Automation

The platform integrates with IoT devices and supports automation to streamline operations and enhance efficiency. This includes predictive maintenance, real-time monitoring, and automated workflows.

Deployment Flexibility

IFS Cloud can be installed on-premises or in the cloud, and it offers the flexibility to move between deployment options as business needs change. This flexibility ensures that businesses can choose the deployment model that best fits their operational requirements and can adapt as those needs evolve.

Get a Free Demo for IFS Cloud

Features Not Supported by IFS Cloud

The following are features that SelectHub found to be missing or still in development with IFS Cloud. Context about workarounds and whether or not these are planned is mentioned where possible.

• B2C Functionality: IFS focuses mainly on B2B customers, unlike Oracle, SAP and others. If you’re looking for something like B2B ecommerce, it’s likely not the best fit.
• Simpler HR Management Tools: While IFS Cloud offers comprehensive HCM functionalities, smaller businesses may find it too complex for basic HR management needs.
• Built-In Marketing Automation: IFS Cloud lacks built-in marketing automation tools. Companies looking for automated marketing campaign management, email marketing, and lead nurturing will need to seek external marketing automation platforms to integrate with IFS Cloud.

Realistically, many of the areas above aren’t relevant for every organization. Rest assured that IFS Cloud is a comprehensive solution for most teams in need of a cohesive ERP solution.

Compare IFS Cloud to the Top Competitors

IFS Cloud Pricing: How Much Does It Cost?

IFS Cloud pricing is based on several factors, including the size of the organization, the number of users, and the specific modules required.

Here are the key components that influence IFS Cloud pricing.

• User Licenses: Pricing is typically based on the number of users who will be accessing the system.
• Modules & Products Required: Organizations can choose to implement specific modules and products based on their needs, which will impact the overall cost.
• Implementation and Support: Implementation and ongoing support services are additional costs to consider.

Additionally, IFS can be purchased as either an on-premises or SaaS/cloud-deployed system. Here are the benefits of both to help you make an informed decision.

#1. On-Premises Deployment

For businesses seeking complete control over their system, IFS offers on-premises deployment. This model is ideal for companies with existing server infrastructure or those with specific corporate or defense requirements necessitating on-site hosting. The on-premises deployment allows businesses to own and host the licenses and hardware, offering a high degree of customization and control.

Benefits of on-premises deployment include the following:

• Suits companies with pre-existing server infrastructure
• Meets specific corporate or defense on-site hosting requirements
• Provides flexibility and control over the system within on-premise server infrastructure

#2. SaaS/Cloud Deployment

IFS’s SaaS deployment model is designed for businesses looking for a cost-effective, hassle-free ERP solution. Benefits of SaaS/cloud deployment include the following:

• Managed security and access with SSL
• Backups, restorations, and database management provided
• Ongoing maintenance
• No hardware requirements; access through any internet browser
• And more

Selecting between on-premises and SaaS deployment depends on your business’s needs, infrastructure, and strategic direction. On-premises offers control over the server infrastructure and is best for businesses with specific hosting requirements or existing servers. In contrast, the SaaS model provides a managed solution ideal for companies seeking minimal upfront investment and ease of access.

The best way to get accurate pricing for your organization is to get a demo and a custom quote. You’ll receive recommendations based on your specific needs.

Get a Free IFS Cloud Price Quote For Your Specific Needs

IFS Cloud Alternatives: How Do They Stack Up?

Googling “IFS Cloud alternatives” will lead you down a rabbit hole of ERP solutions.

The most common — and most competitive — would be the likes of SAP, Oracle, Microsoft, NetSuite and Epicor.

In reviewing why businesses choose IFS Cloud alternatives, reasons include the following.

• Established Market Presence: SAP and Oracle Cloud ERP have long-established reputations in the ERP market. Some businesses may prefer these options due to their extensive track record and wide adoption across various industries. Their brand recognition and perceived stability can be a deciding factor for companies seeking a well-known solution.
• Comprehensive Integration Ecosystem: Microsoft Dynamics 365 offers seamless integration with other Microsoft products, such as Office 365 and Azure. For businesses already using Microsoft’s suite of tools, this tight integration can streamline operations and provide a more cohesive user experience, making it a compelling choice over IFS Cloud.
• Advanced Features and Customization: Oracle Cloud ERP is known for its advanced analytics, AI capabilities, and highly customizable platform. Organizations that require sophisticated analytical tools and extensive customization options may find Oracle’s offering more aligned with their needs compared to IFS Cloud.

Now that we’ve covered the reasons why businesses might choose alternatives, here are several reasons why you should choose IFS Cloud over the competition.

• Single Database: Sustainability and AI are embedded in the IFS database, allowing customers to reuse their data and make decisions with greater speed, context, and accuracy. They are currently the only solution provider that allows customers to manufacture, manage their assets and provide services from the same data contained within a single database.
• Industry-Specific Capabilities: IFS Cloud excels in providing tailored functionalities for various industries, such as aerospace and defense, energy and utilities, and construction and engineering. This industry-specific focus ensures that the platform meets unique regulatory requirements and leverages best practices, offering more relevant and effective solutions than more generic ERP systems like SAP or Oracle.
• Comprehensive Field Service Management: IFS Cloud’s robust FSM tools for scheduling, dispatching, mobile workforce management, and service contract management stand out in the market. These capabilities are particularly valuable for service-centric industries, making IFS Cloud a superior choice for businesses that rely heavily on field service operations.
• Deployment Flexibility: IFS Cloud offers the flexibility to be installed on-premises or in the cloud and provides an easy transition between deployment options. This adaptability is a significant advantage for businesses that need to switch deployment models as their operational requirements change, offering more flexibility than some competitors who may have more rigid deployment options.

Despite a crowded space and a long list of alternatives, IFS Cloud is a solid category leader for organizations looking for a highly configurable cloud system.

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IFS Cloud Review Themes From Users

There are many customer stories about how IFS Cloud has helped organizations. Here are three themes commonly mentioned in IFS Cloud reviews.

• Exceptional Customer Relationships: IFS Cloud is celebrated for its focus on customer service. They treat customers as partners and even incorporate requested enhancements into the standard software. This approach has led to highly responsive and personalized support, with the R&D process being significantly influenced by customer feedback.

• Effective Vendor Communication: IFS Cloud is praised for its transparent and straightforward communication with clients. Customers report that projects are executed on schedule and within budget, highlighting the efficient and collaborative interaction with IFS consultants. This level of communication ensures that clients are well-informed and confident throughout the project lifecycle.

• Intuitive User Interface: IFS Cloud has a standard user interface that is easy to use, as all screens work in the same way. Information is brought to the user in the form of out-of-the-box KPIs and Lobbies, which can be easily configured to suit customer-specific needs.

In terms of cons, most of what users say they would like to see improved are the following.

• Complexity and Learning Curve: Users reported that the system has a steep learning curve and can be challenging to master, especially for new users. The complexity of the software and the need for extensive training can hinder initial productivity and user adoption.
• Certain Data Handling and Access Issues: Some users highlighted difficulties in accessing and managing data within the system, particularly around searching for past data, preparing analytic reports, and the system’s response to complex queries. Example comments include: “Sometimes when preparing analytic reports, accessing old data can be challenging” and “The most trouble I had is searching for past data. Once I got more experience it is easier.”
• Certain Configuration Challenges: Users expressed frustration with the inflexibility in configuration and the lack of adequate customization options with certain specific use cases. The system is seen as geared towards specific industries and business types, making it difficult for businesses with unique or specialized processes to adapt the software to their needs. For example, one user commented: “Inflexible configuration and really only geared towards specific business types. Our custom manufacturing makes it really difficult to use many modules of the software adequately.”

It’s essential if you’re considering IFS Cloud to evaluate the platform based on your specific requirements and to get a demo to better understand its capabilities and potential fit with your business.

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Final IFS Cloud Review

IFS Cloud is a robust player in the enterprise resource management space, offering a comprehensive suite of applications that span ERP, EAM, FSM, HCM, CRM, and more. This integration ensures seamless data flow and real-time visibility across all business functions, making it ideal for companies with complex operations.

However, IFS Cloud is not without its challenges. The system’s complexity can result in a steep learning curve, and it’s not optimized for companies outside of the six industries that it focuses on most, namely aerospace & defense, manufacturing, construction & engineering, energy, utilities & resources, telecommunications, and service industries.

Ultimately, if a friend said, “Hey, I’m thinking about using IFS Cloud,” here’s what I would say…

IFS Cloud offers a powerful, integrated platform that can streamline operations, improve efficiency, and reduce costs for many businesses. Its industry-specific functionalities and strong field service management make it a compelling choice for companies in those sectors.

IFS Cloud is a flexible ERP solution and more that supports comprehensive enterprise management. Its adaptability and focus on industry-specific needs make it a valuable tool for businesses looking to enhance operational efficiency and achieve strategic goals.

What’s Next?

Still haven’t decided on the right ERP? Behold these resources.

Get IFS Cloud Demo

Get IFS Cloud Pricing Quote

About the Author

About Devon Hennig: Devon is SelectHub’s sultan of software selection. He most recently served as VP of Marketing for Docebo (Nasdaq: DCBO) and, prior to that, he was VP of Demand Generation at Vendasta, the leading provider of white-label products and services for global resellers. His passion is helping companies find the right solutions for their tech stack. Visit devonhennig.com for more information.