Epicor ERP Kinetic

Basic Information

Epicor Kinetic ERP is an enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution primarily designed for manufacturers, representing an evolution of Epicor's flagship ERP product. It was launched in June 2021, succeeding the Epicor ERP product line. The system is rebranded and re-architected for a modern, cloud-first environment.

• Model: Epicor Kinetic
• Version: The latest stable version is 2024.1, released on May 16, 2024. Version 2025.1 is planned for availability in mid-June 2025.
• Release Date: June 2021
• Minimum Requirements: Client access is primarily via modern web browsers, supporting various operating systems. Server requirements scale significantly based on deployment size and complexity.
• Supported Operating Systems (Client): Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and modern HTML5-compliant web browsers (e.g., Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari).
• Supported Operating Systems (Server): Primarily Windows Server environments, with web forms also compatible with UNIX and Linux.
• Latest Stable Version: 2024.1
• End of Support Date: The classic user interface (UI) will be fully retired with the 2026.1 release, transitioning all users to the browser-based Kinetic UI.
• End of Life Date: Epicor follows a continuous development and update model, phasing out older interfaces for newer ones.
• License Type: Epicor Kinetic offers both subscription-based licensing (typically per-user, per-month or annually) and perpetual licensing (one-time fee based on users and modules, with additional annual maintenance/support fees). Concurrent user licensing is available, meaning users pay for the maximum number of simultaneous users rather than every individual user.
• Deployment Model: Available in cloud-based (Software as a Service on Microsoft Azure, private cloud, hybrid cloud) and on-premise deployment options.

Analysis: Epicor Kinetic is a continuously evolving ERP solution with a clear roadmap for updates and a planned deprecation of its classic UI, emphasizing its cloud-first, modern approach. Its flexible licensing and deployment models cater to a wide range of manufacturing businesses, from small to large enterprises. The support for various client operating systems via web browsers highlights its accessibility and user-centric design.

Technical Requirements

Epicor Kinetic's technical requirements vary significantly based on the deployment model (cloud or on-premise) and the scale of operations, designed for scalability across different business sizes.

• RAM:
  • Client: Sufficient RAM for a modern web browser and typical office applications.
  • Server: Varies significantly based on user count, transaction volume, and modules used; typically requires enterprise-grade server configurations. For small to medium loads (15-200 users), server RAM can range from 32GB to 128GB or more.
• Processor:
  • Client: Modern multi-core processor capable of running a contemporary operating system and web browser.
  • Server: Enterprise-grade processors such as Intel Xeon E5-2690 v2 3 GHz or better, or Intel Xeon Silver 4314 2.4G (16C/32T) or similar, often in dual-processor configurations for larger deployments.
• Storage:
  • Client: Standard storage for operating system and browser cache.
  • Server: High-speed storage solutions (e.g., SSDs) with ample capacity for database, application files, and historical data, scaling with data volume. RAID configurations (e.g., RAID 1, RAID 5, RAID 10) are recommended for data redundancy and performance, with capacities ranging from hundreds of GBs to TBs depending on user load and database size.
• Display: Modern display with sufficient resolution for optimal viewing of web-based interfaces. The Kinetic UI is responsive and adapts to various screen sizes, including mobile devices.
• Ports: Standard network ports for web traffic (HTTP/HTTPS) and database connectivity. Dedicated network cards for SQL database connectivity are recommended for optimal performance in on-premise setups.
• Operating System:
  • Client: Windows 10, Windows 11, macOS, iOS, Android, and any OS supporting modern web browsers.
  • Server: Microsoft Windows Server is typically recommended for on-premise deployments.

Analysis: Epicor Kinetic leverages a web-based user interface, making client-side technical requirements relatively light and focused on modern browser compatibility. Server-side requirements are robust and scalable, reflecting its enterprise-grade ERP capabilities. The system's architecture, built on Microsoft .NET and optimized for SQL Server, allows for agile development and scalability. On-premise deployments require careful sizing based on user count, transaction volume, and database size to ensure optimal performance and prevent bottlenecks.

Support & Compatibility

Epicor Kinetic offers comprehensive support and is designed for broad compatibility across various environments.

• Latest Version: 2024.1, with 2025.1 scheduled for mid-June 2025.
• OS Support: Supports client access from Windows (10, 11), macOS, iOS, Android, and modern web browsers. Server-side supports Windows Server environments.
• End of Support Date: The older "Classic" UI will be fully retired with the 2026.1 release, requiring users to transition to the browser-based Kinetic UI.
• Localization: Supports multiple companies, currencies, and languages, offering country-specific compliance packs and global readiness features.
• Available Drivers: As a software solution, Epicor Kinetic does not require specific hardware drivers.

Analysis: Epicor Kinetic maintains strong compatibility with current operating systems and browsers, reflecting its cloud-first design. The planned retirement of the classic UI indicates a commitment to modern web-based interfaces and continuous improvement. Extensive localization features make it suitable for global operations, and its software-centric nature eliminates the need for specific hardware drivers.

Security Status

Epicor Kinetic incorporates robust security measures, particularly benefiting from its cloud deployment on Microsoft Azure.

• Security Features: Best-in-class security with advanced user roles, cloud-based security with Microsoft Azure, traceability, documentation, and audit-tracking features for compliance. It includes security dashboards, analytics, and monitoring tools with built-in controls, unified visibility, machine learning, and advanced analytics.
• Known Vulnerabilities: No specific widespread known vulnerabilities are publicly highlighted, but continuous updates and the use of Azure's security infrastructure mitigate risks.
• Blacklist Status: Not applicable; as an ERP software, it does not have a "blacklist status."
• Certifications: Benefits from Microsoft Azure's industry-leading physical and virtual security measures and certifications.
• Encryption Support: Comprehensive data security measures are in place, including encryption, especially within the Azure cloud environment.
• Authentication Methods: Supports various authentication methods inherent to enterprise software, including role-based access control.
• General Recommendations: Utilize advanced user roles and data security rules to restrict user views based on dimensions like inactive parts. Leverage the security features provided by the cloud platform (Microsoft Azure) for enhanced protection.

Analysis: Epicor Kinetic offers a strong security posture typical of an enterprise-grade ERP, with a focus on role-based access control and compliance. Its cloud deployment on Microsoft Azure benefits from Azure's inherent security measures, including advanced threat protection, data center security, and real-time cybersecurity intelligence. This provides a comprehensive security framework for protecting sensitive business data.

Performance & Benchmarks

Epicor Kinetic is engineered for high performance and scalability, particularly for manufacturing environments.

• Benchmark Scores: Specific public benchmark scores are not readily available for Epicor Kinetic.
• Real-World Performance Metrics:
  • Scalability: Designed to help companies scale quickly and efficiently, processing large amounts of data.
  • Response Times: The Kinetic UI is optimized for performance, resulting in faster load times and improved responsiveness.
  • Transaction Speed: Supports real-time business intelligence and process management capabilities.
  • Efficiency: Improves operational performance by aggregating, transforming, and applying data.
• Power Consumption: Cloud migration can lead to significant energy reduction (up to 65%). On-premise deployments' power consumption depends on hardware specifications and usage.
• Carbon Footprint: Features a patent-pending "Carbon Cost Rollup" tool integrated into the ERP system, which measures and manages the carbon footprint of products from raw material to final assembly. This tool treats CO2 emissions as a currency and integrates with Climatiq's carbon footprint APIs.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: Epicor Kinetic offers a more tailored experience for manufacturing businesses compared to generic ERP solutions, with deep functionality in discrete manufacturing. It is positioned as a robust solution for mid to large-sized manufacturing companies.

Analysis: While specific benchmark scores are not widely published, Epicor Kinetic emphasizes real-world performance through its scalable architecture and optimized UI, particularly for data-intensive manufacturing operations. A notable strength is its innovative Carbon Cost Rollup feature, which allows manufacturers to track and manage their environmental impact with the same rigor as financial costs, aligning with growing sustainability goals. This feature, combined with the potential for energy reduction through cloud migration, positions Kinetic as a forward-thinking solution for environmentally conscious enterprises.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews and feedback highlight Epicor Kinetic's strengths in data management, customization, and integration, particularly for manufacturing.

• Strengths:
  • Robust data management and forecasting capabilities, especially in areas like accounts receivable.
  • Deep insights and extensive customization options through various apps.
  • Strong data analytics and integration capabilities.
  • Extensive product configuration and discrete manufacturing capabilities.
  • Customizable reporting and ability to make limited code adjustments.
  • Built-in artificial intelligence support.
  • Modern user interface and sophisticated global search function.
  • Cloud-based nature ensures easy access and usage anywhere, anytime.
  • Streamlines workflow and improves teamwork.
• Weaknesses:
  • Can be complex due to extensive features and customization options, leading to a significant learning curve.
  • Some users find certain aspects challenging without proper training.
  • Not ideal for multinational organizations with numerous product lines.
  • Some workflows can be cumbersome.
  • Variability in support quality, with some users reporting slow response times to support tickets.
• Recommended Use Cases:
  • Mid to large-sized manufacturing companies with complex processes and global operations.
  • Businesses requiring solid data handling and software compatibility.
  • Companies in discrete, make-to-order, mixed-mode, and engineer-to-order manufacturing environments.
  • Organizations in distribution and retail sectors.

Analysis: Epicor Kinetic is highly regarded for its comprehensive feature set tailored for manufacturing, offering powerful analytics, customization, and integration. Its cloud accessibility and AI capabilities are seen as significant advantages. However, the depth of its functionality contributes to a steep learning curve, which can be a barrier for new users or smaller businesses seeking a simpler solution. While robust for manufacturing, it may not be the optimal choice for highly complex multinational corporations with diverse product lines.

Summary

Epicor Kinetic ERP is a comprehensive, cloud-focused enterprise resource planning solution specifically designed for the manufacturing industry. Launched in June 2021 as a re-architected evolution of Epicor ERP, it emphasizes a modern, browser-based user interface, with the classic UI slated for retirement by the 2026.1 release.

Strengths: Kinetic excels in its industry-specific design, offering deep functionality for discrete, make-to-order, and mixed-mode manufacturing. Its flexible deployment options (cloud, on-premise, hybrid) and scalable architecture cater to a wide range of business sizes, from small to large enterprises. The system provides robust data management, advanced analytics, and extensive customization capabilities, allowing businesses to tailor it to their specific needs. A notable innovation is the patent-pending Carbon Cost Rollup tool, which integrates carbon footprint tracking into cost accounting, supporting sustainability initiatives. Security is strong, leveraging Microsoft Azure's infrastructure and offering advanced user roles and compliance features.

Weaknesses: The primary challenge for users is the steep learning curve associated with its extensive features and customization options. Some users report that certain workflows can be cumbersome, and support response times may vary. While highly capable for manufacturing, it may not be the best fit for multinational organizations with highly diverse product lines.

Recommendations: Epicor Kinetic is an ideal solution for mid to large-sized manufacturing companies seeking a powerful, scalable, and customizable ERP system with a focus on real-time insights and operational efficiency. Businesses should be prepared to invest in comprehensive training to overcome the initial learning curve. Its strong emphasis on cloud deployment and sustainability features makes it a forward-looking choice for companies aiming for digital transformation and environmental accountability.

The information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.