Epicor Kinetic

Basic Information

Epicor Kinetic is an enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution designed primarily for manufacturers. It represents the evolution of Epicor's flagship ERP product, 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: Epicor Kinetic was launched in June 2021, succeeding the Epicor ERP product line.
• Minimum Requirements: Client access is primarily via modern web browsers, supporting various operating systems. Server requirements scale significantly based on the size and complexity of the deployment.
• Supported Operating Systems:
  • Client: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and modern HTML5-compliant web browsers (e.g., Microsoft Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari).
  • Server: Supports 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, with older interfaces being phased out in favor of 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).
• Deployment Model: Available in cloud-based (Software as a Service on Microsoft Azure, private cloud, hybrid cloud) and on-premise deployment options.

Technical Requirements

Epicor Kinetic's technical requirements vary based on the deployment model (cloud or on-premise) and the scale of operations. The system is designed for scalability, accommodating small businesses to large enterprises.

• 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.
• Processor:
  • Client: Modern multi-core processor capable of running a contemporary operating system and web browser.
  • Server: High-performance multi-core processors, scaling with the size of the deployment.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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, focusing 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.

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, macOS, iOS, Android, and modern web browsers. Windows 10 and 11 are compatible for client workstations.
• 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 demonstrates strong compatibility across modern operating systems and devices through its web-based interface. Its global readiness, including multi-language and multi-currency support, makes it suitable for international operations. While 24/7 online, chat, and phone support are available through EpicCare, some user reviews indicate variability in support response times.

Security Status

Epicor Kinetic incorporates robust security features and adheres to industry standards to protect enterprise data.

• Security Features: Includes role-based security protocols, end-to-end security capabilities, and comprehensive governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) solutions. It provides permissions to limit access to features and data based on user roles and groups.
• Known Vulnerabilities: Information on specific known vulnerabilities is not publicly detailed, but Epicor's continuous update cycle implies ongoing security patching and improvements.
• Blacklist Status: Not applicable for this type of asset.
• Certifications: Compliant with corporate and financial governance standards such as IAS, IFRS, and GAAP, as well as international trade standards like RoHS, WEEE, NAFTA, and ITAR.
• Encryption Support: Cloud deployments typically include data encryption for data at rest and in transit, ensuring secure communication and storage.
• Authentication Methods: Modern ERP systems like Kinetic generally support various authentication methods, including single sign-on (SSO) and multi-factor authentication (MFA), though specific details are not publicly listed.
• General Recommendations: Epicor emphasizes role-based security and GRC solutions, recommending adherence to best practices for secure system operation.

Analysis: Epicor Kinetic offers a strong security posture typical of an enterprise-grade ERP, with a focus on role-based access control and compliance with various financial and trade regulations. Its cloud deployment on Microsoft Azure further benefits from Azure's inherent security measures.

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 easily, processing large amounts of data efficiently.
  • 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.
  • Lag: Some users report occasional lag when loading dashboards and shop floor maps.
• Power Consumption: Not directly applicable to software.
• Carbon Footprint: Not directly applicable to software.
• Comparison with Similar Assets:
  • vs. SAP S/4HANA: Kinetic targets mid-sized manufacturers, excelling in manufacturing capabilities, while SAP S/4HANA is designed for large enterprises with extensive global operations and complex financial management.
  • vs. Oracle NetSuite: Kinetic is noted for its strength in Material Requirements Planning (MRP) and manufacturing. NetSuite often provides stronger financial capabilities and field service, with a natively cloud-built architecture.
  • vs. SAP Business One: Kinetic offers superior manufacturing and supply chain modules. SAP Business One provides more comprehensive finance, sales, and project management tools, and a stronger CRM.

Analysis: Epicor Kinetic demonstrates strong performance and scalability, particularly within its manufacturing and distribution focus. Its cloud-based platform is built to handle significant data volumes and support real-time operations. While generally performing well, some users have noted occasional performance dips in specific areas like dashboard loading.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews for Epicor Kinetic are generally positive, highlighting its strengths in manufacturing and customization, while also pointing out areas for improvement.

• Strengths:
  • Manufacturing Focus: Highly regarded for its robust manufacturing and distribution capabilities, including strong product configurators for made-to-order and engineer-to-order scenarios.
  • Customization: Offers extensive customization options, allowing businesses to tailor the platform to specific needs and workflows without altering source code.
  • Data Management & Analytics: Provides robust data management, advanced analytics, and forecasting capabilities, with engaging KPI dashboards.
  • Scalability: Designed to help companies scale quickly and easily.
  • Modern UI: The web-based UI improves accessibility and performance.
• Weaknesses:
  • Learning Curve & Complexity: Users often cite a steep learning curve due to the extensive features and customization options.
  • Implementation Cost: User reviews suggest high implementation expenses.
  • Support Variability: Some users report slow response times to support tickets.
  • UI/UX Issues: While modern, some users find the UI "clicky" or visually unappealing, with too much empty space and cumbersome workflows for data entry.
  • CRM Functionality: Considered lacking compared to some competitors, with some users integrating third-party CRM systems.
  • Reporting: Some users find report pulling challenging and reporting can run slowly.
• Recommended Use Cases: Best suited for small to enterprise-level organizations in mixed-mode, made-to-order, engineer-to-order, and discrete manufacturing environments. It is particularly strong for complex made-to-order manufacturers.

Summary of User Reviews: Epicor Kinetic receives a significant majority of positive reviews (73%), with users appreciating its deep functionality for manufacturing, powerful customization tools, and analytical capabilities. However, the system's complexity often leads to a steep learning curve and potentially high implementation costs. Feedback also suggests that while the modern UI is an improvement, certain aspects of user experience and CRM functionality could be enhanced.

Summary

Epicor Kinetic is a robust and highly specialized ERP solution tailored for manufacturing and distribution industries. Its core strength lies in its comprehensive manufacturing capabilities, including advanced MRP, product configuration, and real-time shop floor data collection, making it an excellent choice for complex made-to-order and discrete manufacturing environments. The platform offers extensive customization options, allowing businesses to adapt the system to their unique processes and workflows, and provides powerful analytics and data management tools for informed decision-making. Its cloud-native architecture on Microsoft Azure ensures scalability, reliability, and broad accessibility across various devices and operating systems.

However, Epicor Kinetic presents a notable learning curve due to its feature richness and complexity, which can lead to significant implementation costs. While the modern web-based UI offers improved accessibility and performance, some users report occasional lag in dashboards and find certain workflows less intuitive for high-volume data entry. Its CRM functionality is also noted as less comprehensive compared to some competitors, potentially requiring third-party integrations.

Overall, Epicor Kinetic is a strong contender for mid-sized to large manufacturing and distribution companies seeking a highly customizable, scalable, and industry-specific ERP solution. Organizations with complex production processes and a need for deep manufacturing functionality will find Kinetic particularly beneficial. Prospective users should be prepared for a substantial learning investment and consider the total cost of ownership, including implementation and potential customization efforts. For businesses prioritizing robust manufacturing and supply chain management with a flexible deployment model, Epicor Kinetic offers a powerful and evolving platform.

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.