Top ERP Companies in 2026: Best Vendors, Features, and Selection Guide

ERP companies design and maintain the systems businesses use to manage finance, operations, HR, inventory and supply chain in one integrated environment. As the cloud reshapes how organisations work, selecting the right ERP provider is no longer about comparing features alone; it’s about choosing a foundation for growth, visibility and long-term efficiency.

This guide explains what ERP companies do, the capabilities they offer, how the top vendors compare, and what to consider when selecting an ERP system for your team. As specialists supporting Australian businesses across manufacturing, wholesale, retail and services, we’ve structured this resource to help you approach your evaluation with clarity and confidence.

What Is an ERP Company?

An ERP company develops and maintains enterprise resource planning software that integrates and centralises core business processes, finance, HR, operations, supply chain and customer management into a single platform. These organisations build the modules, workflows and data structures that allow different departments to operate from a consistent system of record.

The terms “ERP company,” “ERP provider”, and “ERP vendor” are often used interchangeably, but there is an important distinction between software publishers and implementation partners. Publishers such as SAP, Oracle, Microsoft and Odoo are responsible for the product roadmap, technology stack and updates. Implementation partners configure the system, extend it and provide ongoing support. Understanding this difference helps businesses plan for both product capability and long-term operational needs.

ERP companies typically handle:

• Product development and updates
• Cloud delivery and infrastructure
• Standard modules for finance, operations and supply chain
• Data architecture and integrations

What ERP Companies Offer: Core Capabilities and Business Value

ERP companies deliver the essential technology that brings business functions together into one cohesive system. Most platforms share a set of foundational capabilities that improve efficiency, decision-making and day-to-day coordination.

1. Integrated Software Suite Across Departments

An ERP system provides interconnected modules for finance, operations, inventory, sales, HR and supply chain, so each department works within the same environment. This eliminates fragmented tools, reduces data duplication and improves operational continuity.

Included functions typically cover:

• Financials and accounting
• Procurement and inventory
• Sales, CRM and customer service
• HR and workforce records

2. Centralised Data & Single Source of Truth

ERP companies design systems where operational data is managed centrally, reducing inconsistencies and repeated entry. A unified data model ensures master data and transactions remain consistent across all processes.

Key benefits:

• One shared set of records
• Reduced spreadsheet reconciliation
• Better auditability and control

3. Automation, Workflow, and Analytics

ERP platforms include built-in workflows that automate repetitive tasks, streamline approvals and support planning. Dashboards, reports, and operational analytics help leaders monitor performance and make faster decisions.

Typical improvements:

• Automated process flows
• Reduced manual handoffs
• Real-time performance visibility

4. Industry and Region-Specific Localisation

Many ERP providers offer configurations for industry-specific needs, manufacturing, retail, wholesale, distribution and service-based operations. They also support regional settings such as tax, compliance and reporting, helping businesses operate smoothly in local markets.

This can include:

• Sector-specific modules
• Local tax settings
• Operational templates tailored to industry norms

5. Customisation, Extensions, and Ecosystem

ERP companies provide ways to extend the system through modules, APIs and app marketplaces. This lets businesses adapt the platform to their workflows and integrate other tools in their technology stack.

Extension options often include:

• Add-on modules and apps
• API-based integrations
• Third-party connectors

Top ERP Companies for 2026

The ERP landscape includes long-established enterprise vendors, rapidly growing cloud platforms, and industry-specialised providers. Below is a clear breakdown of the leading ERP companies and the flagship solutions they offer.

Microsoft Dynamics 365

Microsoft is an ERP company known for its Dynamics 365 suite, which connects finance, operations, sales and supply chain through a cloud-based environment. Its tight integration with Microsoft 365 makes it attractive for organisations that already rely on Microsoft’s ecosystem. Dynamics 365 suits mid-market and enterprise teams that need flexible deployment models and broad application coverage.

SAP

SAP offers enterprise-grade systems that support global operations, complex supply chains and multi-entity financial structures. Its flagship products enable organisations with advanced manufacturing, compliance and reporting needs to run highly standardised business processes. SAP remains a leading choice for large enterprises that require depth, scale and strong governance.

Oracle

Oracle is an ERP company known for its cloud-first platforms, NetSuite and Oracle Fusion Cloud ERP. These solutions offer integrated financials, CRM, supply chain and commerce applications suitable for mid-sized to large organisations. Oracle’s cloud ecosystem supports businesses seeking a unified environment with strong scalability and broad functional reach.

Odoo

Odoo delivers a modular, extensible business platform that covers sales, finance, inventory, manufacturing and services. Its flexibility and breadth make it suitable for small and mid-sized organisations seeking an integrated system without enterprise-level overhead. Odoo supports both cloud and on-premise deployment with strong scalability for evolving operations.

Infor

Infor is an ERP company known for delivering industry-specific cloud applications for manufacturing, distribution and service organisations. Its flagship Infor CloudSuite product families provide deep operational capabilities tailored to sectors that require advanced production, logistics and supply chain workflows. Infor’s vertical focus makes it a strong choice for industrial teams seeking process-aligned systems.

Epicor

Epicor specialises in supporting manufacturing, distribution, retail and service businesses. Its systems offer operational depth in supply chain, production and warehouse processes. Epicor is well-suited for organisations in industrial sectors that require specialised workflows and strong control over day-to-day operations.

Acumatica

Acumatica is a cloud ERP company known for its usability, flexibility and broad functional coverage across financials, inventory, distribution and project operations. It suits mid-sized businesses looking for a modern, adaptable platform with a user-friendly experience.

Workday

Workday is an ERP company known for cloud-based human capital management and financial applications. Its platform is designed for large organisations that need strong workforce management, payroll and enterprise finance capabilities. Workday’s strengths lie in people-centric processes and modern cloud architecture.

IFS / QAD / Deltek

IFS, QAD and Deltek are ERP companies known for industry-specific systems that address complex manufacturing, engineering, project-based and supply-chain-driven operations. Their depth in specialised workflows makes them suitable for organisations with advanced operational requirements or unique industry processes.

How to Choose an ERP Provider

Selecting an ERP provider involves evaluating how the platform aligns with your structure, operations and plans for growth. A structured approach helps reduce risk and ensures the system supports long-term efficiency.

1. Business Size & Complexity

Smaller organisations benefit from simpler implementations, while mid-market and enterprise businesses manage higher transaction volumes, multiple entities and multi-team workflows. The right ERP should match your operational scale without unnecessary complexity.

2. Industry Fit & Module Availability

Manufacturers, retailers, distributors and service-based organisations each require different modules. Ensuring the platform supports your operational model reduces the need for external tools or workarounds.

3. Deployment Model (Cloud, On-Prem, Hybrid)

Cloud platforms simplify updates and reduce infrastructure demands, while on-premise deployments offer complete local control. Hybrid environments provide flexibility for organisations transitioning toward cloud-based systems.

4. Integration & Ecosystem

An ERP should connect effectively with the tools your business relies on, commerce platforms, communication tools, analytics systems and external services. Mature ecosystems and available connectors reduce custom development effort.

5. Local Partner Support & Localisation

Implementation partners enable configuration, training and ongoing support. For Australian organisations, access to local expertise helps align the system with operational practices and regional requirements.

6. Total Cost of Ownership & Implementation Risk

Beyond licensing, long-term investment includes configuration, data migration, training and ongoing enhancements. Assessing these factors early supports smoother adoption and better project outcomes.

FAQs About ERP Companies

Which ERP Is Mostly Used in Australia?

Several ERP systems appear frequently in Australian evaluations, including SAP, Microsoft Dynamics 365, NetSuite and Odoo. Adoption varies by industry, with manufacturing, wholesale, retail, and service organisations each leaning toward vendors that match their operational structure.

What Are the Top 3 ERP Systems?

SAP, Oracle and Microsoft Dynamics 365 are widely recognised enterprise-level ERP ecosystems due to their breadth, scalability and global presence. Each supports complex operations across multiple industries. To understand how these platforms function at scale, see our Enterprise ERP overview, which breaks down the six core modules powering finance, supply chain, HR, CRM, and project management for large organisations.

Is SAP the Best ERP?

SAP is a strong ERP for large organisations, but “best” depends on business size, complexity and industry needs. Smaller or fast-growing teams may prefer more flexible systems with lighter implementation requirements.

Is Excel an ERP Tool?

No. Excel supports analysis and record-keeping, but it does not provide connected modules, workflow automation or centralised data, the core functions of an ERP system.

Is Zoho a CRM or an ERP?

Zoho began as a CRM and productivity suite but now offers broader business applications. However, it is not positioned as a fully integrated ERP in the same way as SAP, Oracle, Microsoft or Odoo.

What Is Tier-1, Tier-2, Tier-3 ERP?

Tier-1 ERP systems support complex, global organisations; Tier-2 systems focus on mid-market needs; Tier-3 systems serve small businesses with simpler operations. The tier indicates scale and complexity, not quality. For SMEs comparing Tier-2 and Tier-3 options, our ERP for SMEs guide explains modular designs, cloud pricing, and entry-level plans tailored for growing local businesses.

Are ERP Companies Only for Large Enterprises?

No. Many ERP providers support small and mid-sized businesses with modular, scalable platforms designed to grow alongside operational needs. Businesses unsure where to begin can review our ERP implementation roadmap, which outlines the seven steps, from scoping and process mapping to data migration and training, to help teams deploy ERP efficiently, regardless of size.

Next Steps: From Researching ERP Companies to Running a Successful Project

Evaluating ERP companies is just the first phase. A successful project begins with clear requirements, guided demonstrations and a structured pilot that tests real workflows before full deployment. This approach helps confirm system fit and guides change management.

For Australian businesses planning their next steps, Havi offer support with scoping, demonstrations and solution recommendations to help you move confidently from research into a well-executed implementation.