Get to Know Cetec ERP: More Power, Less Cost

Cetec ERP is disrupting the manufacturing software landscape with its comprehensive, cloud-based solution at a remarkably affordable price. But don’t be misled by the cost-effectiveness – this is a robust, feature-rich system designed to meet the intricate needs of today’s manufacturers, ensuring you get the most out of your investment.

Cetec ERP proves that you don’t need deep pockets to access top-tier manufacturing software. We are impressed with how it fulfills its promise of providing more power at a lower cost. 

As we explore Cetec features more deeply, you’ll understand why this innovative platform is becoming a go-to solution for small- to medium-sized manufacturers. 

History of Cetec ERP

Cetec ERP, founded in 1996, began as a service company for manufacturers using legacy DOS-based systems. In the early 2010s, they pivoted to developing a cloud-based ERP platform, targeting small and mid-sized manufacturers with an affordable, web-accessible solution. Cetec ERP caters to regulated industries like medical devices, aerospace, and electronics, offering features such as quality management, document control, financial management, and supply chain tracking in a unified platform.

Their ​“more for less” philosophy delivers a fully integrated ERP system (including MRP, production, accounting, and CRM) at just $40 per user per month. This approach provides small to mid-sized manufacturers with a cost-effective, high-quality solution that eliminates the complexity of legacy systems. Cetec’s manufacturing expertise and dedicated customer support further differentiate its offering in the market.

Key Features and Capabilities of Cetec ERP

Cetec ERP offers a comprehensive suite of features designed to meet the complex needs of modern manufacturers. Here are the key capabilities that make this system stand out:

All-in-One Platform

Cetec provides a truly integrated system that covers the entire manufacturing process:

• CRM and Sales Management: Manage customer relationships, track sales performance, and handle quoting, all within the same system.
• Order Fulfillment: Easily track and fulfill various customer demands, from make-to-order to engineer-to-order and distribution.
• Purchasing and Supply Chain Management: Streamline procurement processes and manage complex supply chain dependencies.
• Inventory Management: Handle diverse inventory tracking needs, from high-mix/low-volume environments to specific dimensional inventory requirements.
• Production Management: Control shop floor operations, including labor and overhead tracking, electronic routers/travelers, and mobile data collection.
• Planning and Scheduling: Simplify work order scheduling and planning with tools that help manage complex material and labor dependencies.
• Document Management: Integrated system for storing and managing all business documents, reducing time spent on file management.
• Quality Assurance: Built-in tools for quality tracking and ISO 9001 management, reducing quality-related paperwork.
• Accounting and Financials: Fully integrated accounting system that posts transactions to the ledger in real-time.

Cloud-Native Architecture

As a cloud-based ERP solution, Cetec ERP offers several advantages:

• Access from anywhere, on any device with an internet connection
• No need for expensive on-premise hardware or IT infrastructure
• Automatic updates and upgrades, ensuring you’re always on the latest version
• Scalability to accommodate business growth without system changes
• Improved security with data stored in secure, redundant cloud servers

Manufacturing-Specific Functionality

Cetec ERP is built from the ground up for manufacturers:

• Manufacturing Quoting and Job Costing: Create accurate quotes and track job costs in real-time.
• Material Requirements Planning (MRP): Optimize inventory levels and production schedules.
• Shop Floor Control: Manage diverse production environments with tools for labor tracking, electronic travelers, and more.
• Quality Management: Integrated quality system that helps fulfill ISO and related certification requirements.
• Engineering Change Management: Tools to manage product revisions and engineering changes effectively.

Mobile Warehousing

Enhance warehouse efficiency with mobile capabilities:

• Use barcode scanners and mobile devices for receiving, material allocation, and shipping
• Mobile-friendly interface for warehouse tasks
• Real-time inventory updates across the entire system

Integrated Accounting

The fully integrated accounting suite offers:

• Real-time financial tracking linked directly to manufacturing operations
• Automated transaction posting to the general ledger
• Comprehensive financial reporting capabilities

Flexible Deployment Options

While primarily offered as a cloud solution, Cetec impressions us with its flexible deployment options and also provides:

• Resident hosting option for businesses that prefer on-premises deployment
• Linux-based system that can be installed on local hardware or a cloud provider of your choice

Advanced Reporting and Business Intelligence

Cetec ERP includes powerful data analysis tools:

• Built-in business intelligence platform for creating custom reports
• Visual data representation for new business-critical insights
• Ability to create and save custom reports for recurring use

Additional Features

• Customer and Vendor Portals: Enhance collaboration with external stakeholders
• Shipping Integration: Built-in integration with shipping carriers via ShipEngine
• Multi-Currency and International Support: Handle global operations, including features like UK VAT integration

This all-in-one platform offers a wide range of features that help manufacturers improve efficiency, simplify operations, and make data-driven decisions without using multiple software solutions or dealing with complex integrations.

Cetec ERP Pricing & Cost Considerations

Pricing is often a critical factor in choosing an ERP system. It takes a unique approach to pricing that sets it apart in the market. Here’s what you need to know about Cetec ERP’s cost structure:

Transparent Pricing Model

The system is priced at a flat rate of $40 per user per month. This transparent model includes all features and modules without hidden fees or costly add-ons.

All-Inclusive Package

Unlike many ERP systems that charge extra for additional ERP modules, Cetec’s pricing includes access to all functionalities. This comprehensive approach covers everything from CRM to accounting, potentially leading to significant business cost savings.

No Long-Term Contracts

Cetec doesn’t lock customers into long-term commitments. This flexibility allows businesses to scale their usage up or down as needed without being tied to an expensive, multi-year contract.

Updates and Support

The monthly fee includes regular system updates and support. This ongoing development ensures that users can always access the latest features and improvements without additional costs.

On-Premises Option

For businesses requiring on-premises deployment, Cetec offers a resident hosting option. This option incurs a one-time setup fee of $3,500 and a monthly support fee of $99 in addition to the per-user pricing.

Total Cost of Ownership

When considering Cetec ERP, businesses should factor in the total cost of ownership. The lack of upfront licensing fees and hardware requirements can result in lower initial costs than traditional ERP systems.

Scalability Considerations

As businesses grow, they can simply add more users to their plan. This scalability ensures that companies only pay for what they need, making it an attractive option for growing small to medium-sized businesses.

Cetec ERP’s pricing model aims to make enterprise-grade ERP functionality accessible to businesses of all sizes. It offers a refreshing alternative in the ERP market by eliminating complex pricing structures and hidden costs.

Integration Capabilities of Cetec ERP

While Cetec ERP offers a comprehensive solution, it also provides integration options. This allows businesses to connect it with other essential tools and systems they may already use. 

These are the ways Cetec can fit into your existing technology ecosystem:

Robust API for Custom Integrations

Cetec ERP offers an extensive API that follows industry-standard REST patterns. This powerful feature allows for seamless integration with various systems and workflows. Whether connecting to production machines, automating order handling from websites, or linking to other business systems, it’s API provides the flexibility needed in today’s interconnected business environment.

Easy Access to API

Users can find API access within the application by navigating to Admin » APIs & More » API Overview. This straightforward access empowers businesses to create custom integrations tailored to their specific needs.

QuickBooks Online Integration

For businesses using QuickBooks Online for their accounting needs, Cetec ERP offers integration capabilities. This allows for seamless data flow between the ERP and accounting systems, reducing manual data entry and potential errors.

CalcuQuote Integration for EMS Companies

Cetec ERP partners with CalcuQuote, a provider of cloud-based quoting software for Electronic Manufacturing Services (EMS) companies. This integration can streamline the quoting process for businesses in the electronics manufacturing sector.

Metabase for Advanced Reporting and Business Intelligence

Cetec ERP integrates with Metabase, a powerful business intelligence tool. This integration allows users to create custom reports and visualizations, providing deeper insights into their business data and potentially saving hours of report preparation time.

ShipEngine Integration for Shipping Automation

Cetec ERP seamlessly integrates with ShipEngine, allowing users to automate their shipping processes directly within the ERP interface. This integration works with various shipping carrier accounts, helping shipping departments maintain speed and accuracy.

Versatility for Various Business Needs

Combining a robust API and specific integrations demonstrates Cetec’s versatility. It can adapt to business needs, from accounting and quoting to advanced analytics and shipping logistics.

It is not uncommon for us to hear from businesses that rely on a specific one-off software system and require ERP integration. Cetec ERP’s integration capabilities enable businesses with these needs to create a more connected and efficient workflow, leveraging the strengths of specialized tools while maintaining the ERP system as the central hub of operations.

Wrapping Up

When we started Top10ERP in 2008, and for many years after, businesses did not have options like Cetec. Seeing a robust system available at such a competitive price is refreshing.

Cetec ERP has carved out a unique position in the market as an excellent solution for a wide range of manufacturing companies.

Its comprehensive functionality and cost-effective pricing stand out in the crowded ERP market. The transparent, flat-rate pricing makes enterprise-grade ERP accessible to businesses of all sizes.

It’s cloud-native design offers the advantages of accessibility, automatic updates, and scalability.

The system’s focus on manufacturing-specific capabilities demonstrates its understanding of the unique challenges in various industries.

While it offers numerous advantages, potential users should carefully evaluate their needs against Cetec’s capabilities.

We encourage businesses to use our comparison platform to research cloud ERP systems thoroughly, request demos, and engage in a trial period to ensure Cetec ERP fits their unique requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cetec ERP

How much does Cetec ERP cost?

Cetec ERP uses a transparent, flat-rate pricing model of $40 per user per month. This includes all features and modules, with no hidden fees or additional costs for premium functionalities.

For businesses requiring on-premises deployment, there’s a one-time setup fee of $3,500 and a monthly support fee of $99, in addition to the per-user pricing.

Is Cetec ERP suitable for small manufacturing businesses?

Yes, Cetec is well-suited for small to medium-sized manufacturers. Its affordable pricing, comprehensive feature set, and scalability make it an excellent choice for growing businesses.

The system can accommodate companies with just a few users and scale up as the business expands without requiring significant changes or upgrades.

What industries does Cetec ERP serve?

Cetec ERP is designed primarily for manufacturing companies. It has specific strengths in industries such as:

• Medical & Life Sciences
• Aerospace & Defense
• Machine/Job Shops
• Electronics Assembly
• Industrial Equipment/ETO

However, its versatility allows it to serve a wide range of manufacturing sectors beyond these specific industries.

Is Cetec ERP cloud-based or on-premises?

Cetec ERP is primarily a cloud-based solution, offering the advantages of accessibility, automatic updates, and reduced IT infrastructure needs.

However, it also offers a resident hosting option for businesses that prefer or require on-premises deployment. This flexibility allows companies to choose the deployment method that best suits their needs.

What key features make Cetec ERP a compelling Manufacturing ERP system?

Several features distinguish Cetec ERP:

• All-inclusive functionality: CRM, MRP, accounting, and more in one system
• Cloud-native architecture for accessibility and easy updates
• Manufacturing-specific capabilities tailored for industries like medical devices and aerospace
• Mobile warehousing features for improved inventory management
• Integrated quality management tools for regulatory compliance
• Transparent, affordable pricing model
• Robust API for custom integrations

These features and its competitive pricing make it a unique offering in the manufacturing ERP market.