IFS vs Infor ERP (CloudSuite): Which ERP is Best?

The enterprise resource planning (ERP) software market is experiencing rapid growth, expected to reach $71.2 billion by 2025 according to recent analysis by Gartner. Cloud-based ERP solutions now account for nearly 50% of all ERP software spending. As more organizations accelerate their move to the cloud, two ERP platforms have emerged as leaders in providing robust industry-specific capabilities – Infor CloudSuite and IFS Cloud Applications. Keep reading for an in-depth look at Infor CloudSuite and IFS, so you can make an informed decision about which product might be best for your company.

Infor ERP & Company Overview

Infor CloudSuite is the powerful and innovative cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) system developed by Infor, one of the leading providers of ERP systems in the world.

In addition to CloudSuite, Infor offers other industry-leading ERP solutions including Infor M3, LN, and SyteLine. M3 is a manufacturing-focused ERP for industries like automotive and aerospace. LN is focused on project-based and engineer-to-order manufacturers. SyteLine is a broad ERP for manufacturers and distributors.

With its intuitive user interface and comprehensive feature set, Infor CloudSuite has become a popular choice for businesses looking to streamline their operations and improve productivity. 

Thanks to its industry-leading security protocols and robust data management capabilities, Infor Cloud Suite allows businesses to effectively manage all aspects of their operations, from finances and customer relations to HR and supply chain logistics.

Infor's Cloud Suite is built on a modern, microservices-based architecture that enables businesses to quickly deploy new applications and services. The suite includes a wide range of applications for finance, human resources, supply chain management, customer relationship management, and more.

The Infor Cloud Suite has many industry-specific solutions. Which include:

Infor CloudSuite Distribution

Infor CloudSuite Distribution provides wholesale distributors with applications to manage sales, inventory, and operations. Key capabilities include:

• Warehouse and inventory optimization to improve order fill rates
• Route planning and dispatch to reduce transportation costs
• Rich CRM features like quote generation, account management
• Self-service customer and supplier portals
• Back office functions like purchasing, planning, financials

Infor CloudSuite Automotive

Infor CloudSuite Automotive helps dealerships, auto manufacturers and suppliers manage marketing, sales, service, parts, accessories and vehicle inventory. Features include:

• Customized online vehicle catalog and ecommerce platform
• Management of accessories, parts, warranties, service plans
• Tools for personalized marketing to customer base
• Real-time visibility into inventory across locations
• Role-based apps for sales advisors, technicians, managers

Infor CloudSuite Aerospace & Defense

This cloud software suite powers complex defense operations while ensuring compliance with military procurement policies. Capabilities include:

• Mission planning, simulation and training
• Maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO)
• Inventory and supply chain optimization
• Warranty and service lifecycle management
• Analytics on asset performance

Infor's Cloud Suite is available in both public and private cloud deployments, giving organizations the flexibility to choose the deployment option that best meets their needs. 

IFS ERP & Company Overview

IFS is a globally recognized leader in enterprise software solutions, catering to a wide range of industries including manufacturing, distribution, service, aerospace, automotive, mining, and more. Renowned for its commitment to innovation, IFS has garnered numerous accolades for its comprehensive portfolio of solutions that are specifically designed to meet the unique needs of different industries.

The IFS suite offers end-to-end capabilities across various enterprise functions. Its robust ERP application provides modules for managing finances, supply chain, manufacturing, human resources, and more within a unified platform. This integrated approach allows businesses to streamline their operations and improve efficiency. Moreover, IFS facilitates collaboration through features like document management, forums, and chat functions, enabling seamless communication and knowledge sharing among team members.

In addition to its core ERP functionalities, IFS also offers targeted solutions for specific areas such as field service management, human capital management, quality management, supplier relationship management, and warehouse fulfillment. These specialized modules enable businesses to optimize workforce scheduling, analyze supplier performance, ensure quality control and assurance, and track inventory and logistics effectively.

IFS understands the unique operational needs of businesses in different industries, and therefore, combines its modular suite with industry-specific packages. This approach allows IFS to cater to the specific requirements of its clients, ensuring a tailored and comprehensive solution that addresses their distinct challenges. The extensive capabilities and industry-specific focus have positioned IFS as a top choice for organizations seeking transformative technology solutions.

One of the standout applications within the IFS suite is its Manufacturing module, which is designed to support production planning, capacity scheduling, material requirements, and shop floor execution. This module empowers manufacturing companies to optimize their production processes, improve resource allocation, and enhance overall operational efficiency. Additionally, IFS offers a centralized Quality Management module that enables businesses to streamline quality checks, perform root cause analysis, and implement preventive actions. This ensures that organizations can maintain the highest standards of quality and continuously improve their operations.

IFS is a globally competent and user-centric ERP solution provider that excels in delivering comprehensive and industry-specific software solutions. Its end-to-end capabilities, collaborative features, and specialized modules enable organizations to streamline their operations, enhance productivity, and drive innovation. With a strong focus on meeting the unique needs of different industries, IFS has established itself as a leading choice for businesses seeking technology transformation.

IFS: A Globally Competent and User-Centric ERP Solution

IFS stands out as a highly capable ERP provider, especially renowned in industries like construction where field services, project management, and project costing are critical. Its global presence and comprehensive feature set make it a formidable contender in the ERP market.

Key Strengths of IFS:

• International Reach: IFS's global footprint is a major advantage for companies operating across multiple countries. This international capability positions it alongside other major players like Infor and Microsoft, making it an excellent choice for businesses with a worldwide presence.
• User-Friendly Experience: One of the most salient features of IFS is its intuitive and modern interface. The system is designed for ease of use, offering a clean and contemporary user experience. This is particularly beneficial for construction businesses that value simplicity and efficiency in their ERP systems.
• Industry-Specific Solutions: IFS excels in meeting the unique needs of the construction sector. Its robust functionalities in project management and costing are tailored to handle the complexities of construction businesses, ensuring a more streamlined and effective management process.

Balancing Considerations:

• Scale Appropriateness: While IFS offers extensive capabilities, it might be more than what is required for smaller construction firms. However, for larger organizations with more complex needs, IFS presents an ideal solution due to its comprehensive and sophisticated feature set.
• Reporting Efficiency: Although there may be some concerns about the speed of financial reporting, IFS still offers a significant improvement over traditional methods like Excel spreadsheets. It's important to weigh this against the overall benefits that IFS brings to the table.

IFS & Infor Feature Comparison

Similarities between Infor and IFS

Both Infor's Cloud Suite and IFS’ user interface are designed for easy usability and can be customized to meet the specific needs of each organization. Both include a number of features that are designed to help businesses save time and money, such as automated data entry and workflow approval. 

Other similar features:

• Both can be deployed on-premise or as a cloud solution
• Both offer comprehensive financial management, supply chain management, and project management modules. 
• Both offer product lifecycle management (PLM) and include a product data management (PDM) module that can be used to track the lifecycle of products, from design and development through manufacturing and distribution.
• Both offer robust security features, allowing businesses to store sensitive information in a safe and secure manner. 
• Both have been named in Gartner's Magic Quadrant for Cloud ERP for Product-Centric Enterprises. To determine placement in the Magic Quadrant, Gartner performs an in-depth evaluation of each vendor’s Cloud ERP offering based on completeness of vision and ability to execute. 
  • In 2020, IFS was been named a Visionary in Gartner's Magic Quadrant for Cloud ERP for Product-Centric Enterprises. 
  • Infor Positioned as a Leader in the 2021 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Cloud ERP for Product-Centric Enterprise.

Differences Between IFS ERP and Infor CloudSuite

There are a few key differences between the two ERPs. 

• Cloud Suite offers a broader suite of applications than IFS, and many are industry-specific whereas IFS offers deeper capabilities within certain industries/sectors. Companies that are asset intensive and service based will be hard pressed to find a better, more complete ERP solution than IFS.
• Infor Cloud Suite is licensed on a per module and user basis whereas IFS is a fixed subscription cost including all the features/functionality you need to deploy IFS. CloudSuite ERP deployments generally tend to be more expensive than IFS. IFS is likely to be a better fit and more cost-effective fit for certain types of businesses.
  Learn more: IFS ERP Subscription Pricing
• Both can be deployed in the cloud however Infor CloudSuite must be deployed in AWS datacenters whereas IFS ERP is deployed and managed in IFS data centers.  

When comparing IFS Cloud ERP and Infor CloudSuite, there are a number of factors to consider. On the one hand, Infor CloudSuite offers a modern feature rich cloud-based ERP with industry-specific functionality. However, Infor CloudSuite is also notorious for being complex and difficult to navigate, especially for those new to ERP systems. Also according to online customer reviews implementation are difficult, oftentimes missing the go-live date and causing more than expected disruption to the business.  

On the other hand, IFS offers many of the same advantages as Infor – including powerful reporting tools, robust customization options, and deep integration with third-party applications. What sets it apart, however, is its ease of use and industry specific breadth of functionality. Ultimately, when comparing IFS vs Infor CloudSuite, both systems have their advantages depending on your needs and level of technical expertise. 

Recent Product Updates by IFS & Infor

Infor CloudSuite continues to grow as an ERP platform, with more and more customers making the move to the cloud. The latest updates for CloudSuite include new functionality in key areas such as financials, distribution, manufacturing, project management, and human resources. In particular, Infor has been focusing on developing deeper ERP capabilities for customers in the retail and wholesale distribution industries.

In addition to these functional updates, Infor has also been continuing its work on enhancing the user experience for CloudSuite users. This includes enhancements to areas such as navigation, reporting, and dashboarding.

The IFS software suite is also constantly evolving, with new features and functionality being added on a regular basis. Some of the latest updates include several new industry-specific applications that build on the core ERP functionality. These new industry solutions provide added value for companies in specific sectors, such as manufacturing, healthcare, and construction. By leveraging the latest updates and enhancements to IFS software, companies can improve their operational efficiency and competitiveness.

Which ERP is best for your business?

Ultimately, the choice comes down to which system aligns most closely with your individual needs and goals. Whether you choose IFS or Infor CloudSuite, you can be confident in the knowledge that you're getting a high-quality cloud-based ERP solution that will help drive future growth and success for your business.