Infor LN CloudSuite

Basic Information

Infor LN CloudSuite is an enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution designed primarily for discrete manufacturing industries. It is the cloud-based evolution of Infor LN, which originated as Baan ERP. Infor introduced its first industry CloudSuite, based on Infor LN, in 2014.

• Model: Infor LN CloudSuite (also referred to as Infor CloudSuite LN or Infor CloudSuite Industrial Enterprise).
• Version: CloudSuites receive feature releases every six months and monthly bug fixes. The latest major ERP update for 2024, which includes Infor LN, was announced in April 2024.
• Release Date: Infor introduced its CloudSuite offerings in 2014.
• Minimum Requirements (Client-side for Cloud Access):
  • Processor: Recommended 2.4 GHz Dual core or faster (for Infor Smart Office). Multi-core, 1.6 GHz (for Infor Factory Track Smart Client).
  • RAM: 4 GB (for Infor Smart Office and general client access). 2-3 GB (for Infor Factory Track Smart Client, depending on OS).
  • Storage: 200MB free disk space (for Infor Smart Office).
  • Display: Recommended 1280x1024 (for Infor Smart Office). Minimum 1600x900 (for general client access).
  • Supported Operating Systems: Windows 10, Windows Server 2019 (for Infor Smart Office). Windows 7 Professional, Windows 8 Professional, Windows 10 Professional, Windows Server 2012 R2, Windows Server 2016, and Windows Server 2019 (for Infor Factory Track Smart Client). Windows clients supporting Internet Explorer 11.x, Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome 30.x, and Mac clients supporting Safari 6.0.5 (for general client access). Mobile applications support the latest plus two previous versions of Android and Apple iOS.
• Latest Stable Version: For the underlying on-premises Infor LN, version 10.8 was released in March 2023. CloudSuites receive continuous updates.
• End of Support Date: Not explicitly stated for Infor CloudSuite LN, as cloud solutions typically receive continuous updates and support. Legacy on-premises Infor LN users face concerns regarding current support policies.
• End of Life Date: Not explicitly stated; continuous development and updates are characteristic of cloud offerings.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Not applicable; cloud solutions include automatic updates.
• License Type: Subscription-based model, typically per user per month.
• Deployment Model: Primarily a multi-tenant cloud solution delivered on Amazon Web Services (AWS). On-premises deployment of the core Infor LN is also an option.

Technical Requirements

Infor LN CloudSuite, being a cloud-based ERP, shifts the majority of infrastructure management to Infor and its cloud provider, AWS. Client-side access requires moderate specifications for optimal user experience.

• RAM: 4 GB is generally recommended for client machines accessing the CloudSuite applications.
• Processor: A dual-core processor at 2.4 GHz or faster is recommended for client applications like Infor Smart Office.
• Storage: Minimal local disk space (e.g., 200MB for Infor Smart Office) is required for client applications, as data is stored in the cloud.
• Display: A minimum resolution of 1280x1024 is recommended for Infor Smart Office, with 1600x900 for general client access.
• Operating System: Client access is supported on modern Windows operating systems, including Windows 10 and Windows Server 2019. Specific components like Infor Factory Track also support older Windows versions (7, 8, Server 2012 R2/2016). Mac clients are supported via Safari.
• Ports: Not explicitly detailed for client access, but standard internet connectivity ports are assumed for cloud communication.

Analysis of Technical Requirements

The technical requirements for Infor LN CloudSuite are primarily focused on the client-side, reflecting its cloud-native architecture. The specifications are moderate, indicating that the system is accessible from standard business workstations and modern mobile devices without requiring high-end hardware. The reliance on AWS for the backend infrastructure means that server-side hardware, processing power, and storage are managed by Infor, reducing the IT overhead and capital expenditure for the end-user. This cloud model ensures scalability and performance without demanding significant on-premises IT expertise or resources from the client.

Support & Compatibility

Infor LN CloudSuite offers comprehensive support and broad compatibility, leveraging its cloud delivery model for continuous updates and global reach.

• Latest Version: CloudSuites receive regular feature releases every six months and monthly bug fixes, ensuring users always have access to the most current functionalities.
• OS Support:
  • Desktop Clients: Windows 10, Windows Server 2019 are supported for core client applications. Older Windows versions (7, 8, Server 2012 R2, 2016) are supported for specific modules like Infor Factory Track.
  • Web Browsers: Internet Explorer 11.x, Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome 30.x, and Safari 6.0.5 (for Mac).
  • Mobile: Mobile applications support the latest Android and iOS versions, plus the two previous versions.
• End of Support Date: Cloud-based solutions inherently receive continuous support and updates, eliminating traditional end-of-support dates associated with on-premises software versions.
• Localization: Infor LN CloudSuite includes robust financial hierarchies and comprehensive global trade compliance functionalities, designed to support international operations and diverse regulatory environments.
• Available Drivers: As an ERP system, traditional hardware drivers are not applicable. Integration with other systems is managed through Infor OS, Infor ION (Intelligent Open Network), and APIs.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status

Infor LN CloudSuite demonstrates a strong commitment to support and compatibility. Its multi-tenant cloud deployment on AWS ensures automatic updates and high availability, reducing the need for manual upgrades and IT maintenance. The system supports a wide range of client operating systems and web browsers, along with dedicated mobile applications, offering flexibility for users. Infor provides support through channels like Infor Concierge and the Infor Xtreme Support portal, offering tools, insights, and expertise. The built-in global trade compliance and financial management capabilities highlight its suitability for multinational enterprises. While the core Infor LN has been noted for a legacy UI, the CloudSuite versions aim to provide a modern, role-based user interface and continuous enhancements.

Security Status

Infor LN CloudSuite prioritizes security through its cloud infrastructure, built-in features, and adherence to industry compliance standards.

• Security Features: The solution is built for security on AWS, incorporating enterprise-grade security, AI tools, robotic process automation, and process mining. It includes advanced security features such as role-based access and single sign-on. Automated compliance and security features streamline audit trails and regulatory reporting for standards like ITAR, FAA, and AS9100.
• Known Vulnerabilities: Specific known vulnerabilities are not publicly detailed in general product overviews, indicating a focus on continuous security patching and proactive threat mitigation inherent in cloud services.
• Blacklist Status: Not applicable.
• Certifications: Infor CloudSuite undergoes regular audits for compliance with various standards, including HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), SOC 1 (Service Organization Control 1), ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations), and SSAE 16 (Statement on Standards for Attestation Engagements 16).
• Encryption Support: Implied by its cloud-native architecture on AWS and compliance with security standards, data encryption at rest and in transit is a standard practice.
• Authentication Methods: Supports Single Sign-On (SSO) and integrates with Active Directory Federation Services (AD FS) for user management and authentication.
• General Recommendations: Utilizing a cloud ERP like Infor CloudSuite can lead to lower security costs compared to on-premises alternatives, as cloud service providers implement established best practices for multi-layered security.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating

Infor LN CloudSuite maintains a high overall security rating due to its robust cloud foundation and integrated security measures. Hosting on AWS provides a secure and scalable environment. The system's compliance with stringent industry standards and regular third-party audits (HIPAA, SOC 1, ITAR, SSAE 16) demonstrates a commitment to data protection and regulatory adherence. Features like role-based access and SSO enhance user authentication and control. The continuous updates and automated compliance capabilities further strengthen its security posture, making it a reliable choice for enterprises with critical data.

Performance & Benchmarks

Infor LN CloudSuite delivers strong performance and scalability, crucial for enterprise-level operations, particularly in manufacturing.

• Benchmark Scores: Specific public benchmark scores are not readily available. Performance is often described in terms of uptime and efficiency.
• Real-world Performance Metrics: Infor offers a 99.5% uptime Service Level Agreement (SLA) for Infor CloudSuite, with a historical performance reported at 99.9996%. The system is noted for its scalability and ability to handle diverse needs for medium to large enterprises. It offers better load times and generally performs better than some competitors like SAP.
• Power Consumption: Not directly applicable to end-users as it is a cloud service. Power consumption is managed by AWS data centers.
• Carbon Footprint: Not directly applicable to end-users. The carbon footprint is associated with AWS's operations, which often focus on efficiency and renewable energy.
• Comparison with Similar Assets:
  • Vs. Infor LN (on-premises): CloudSuite stands out due to better pricing and support.
  • Vs. SAP S/4HANA & Oracle ERP Cloud: Infor CloudSuite is often compared favorably, with some users noting better load times and performance. Infor LN provides a "SAP-like feel" with enterprise-grade functionalities.
  • Vs. NetSuite: Infor CloudSuite LN delivers more mature capabilities for intricate manufacturing operations, excelling in discrete manufacturing, while NetSuite supports lighter manufacturing.
  • Vs. Infor CloudSuite Corporate: Infor CloudSuite Corporate excels in meeting requirements and quality of support compared to Infor LN.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status

Infor LN CloudSuite exhibits a high level of performance and scalability, essential for its target market of discrete manufacturers. The impressive uptime SLA and historical performance figures underscore its reliability. Its cloud-based architecture on AWS allows for seamless scalability, adapting to the evolving needs of enterprises. The system's efficiency and integration capabilities, particularly with Infor OS and AI tools, contribute to streamlined operations and improved decision-making. While direct benchmark scores are not public, user feedback and comparisons suggest a competitive performance profile, especially in handling complex manufacturing processes.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews and feedback for Infor LN CloudSuite highlight its strengths in industry-specific manufacturing capabilities and cloud advantages, alongside some areas for improvement.

• Strengths:
  • Industry-Specific Functionality: Highly valued for its deep capabilities in discrete manufacturing, particularly for automotive, aerospace, and industrial sectors.
  • Cloud Benefits: Users appreciate the scalability, automatic updates, remote access, and reduced IT overhead that come with its cloud-based architecture on AWS.
  • Integration and Intelligence: Strong integration capabilities with Infor OS, ION, and built-in business intelligence (BI) and artificial intelligence (AI) tools are frequently praised.
  • Process Management: Effective in streamlining processes, enhancing efficiency for multi-site manufacturing, and managing end-to-end processes from production scheduling to supply chain planning.
  • Global Capabilities: Robust financial hierarchies and global trade compliance functionalities support international operations.
  • User Interface: While the underlying Infor LN has been called legacy, the CloudSuite versions offer a more modern, role-based UI with personalization capabilities.
  • Support: Managed services are responsive, and standard support is generally good.
• Weaknesses:
  • Legacy UI/UX (for core LN): The underlying Infor LN is sometimes considered a legacy solution with an outdated user interface and limited cloud-native features like universal search and mobile experience.
  • Learning Curve: Some users report a significant learning curve.
  • Reporting Features: Occasional dissatisfaction with reporting features.
  • Community Support: A perceived lack of community for discussing issues.
  • Customization Limitations: While flexible, some users find it less flexible for unique requirements compared to other ERPs, or note challenges with customization options for CloudSuite generally.
  • Integration with Third-Party Tools: Can have limited integration with certain third-party tools, especially older versions.
  • Not Ideal for Process-Centric Manufacturing: While strong in discrete manufacturing, it may not be the best fit for process-centric operations (e.g., chemicals, plastics).
• Recommended Use Cases:
  • Discrete manufacturing companies, particularly in the automotive, aerospace & defense, high-tech, and industrial equipment sectors.
  • Upper mid-market companies with revenues typically ranging from $250M to $750M.
  • Project-centric manufacturing companies requiring integrated project management.
  • Multi-site manufacturing enterprises seeking to streamline processes and gain insights.
  • Organizations needing robust global trade compliance and financial management.

Summary

Infor LN CloudSuite is a robust, cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution primarily tailored for discrete manufacturing industries. It leverages the proven functionalities of the legacy Infor LN (originally Baan ERP) and enhances them with modern cloud capabilities, delivered as a multi-tenant solution on Amazon Web Services (AWS).

Strengths: The asset excels in its industry-specific depth for discrete manufacturing, offering comprehensive features for production scheduling, supply chain planning, and project lifecycle management. Its cloud architecture provides significant advantages, including high scalability, automatic updates, reduced IT overhead, and remote access. Infor LN CloudSuite integrates seamlessly with Infor OS, ION, and incorporates advanced BI and AI capabilities, facilitating data-driven decision-making and process automation. Security is a strong point, with enterprise-grade features, regular compliance audits (HIPAA, SOC 1, ITAR, SSAE 16), and robust authentication methods like SSO. The system also boasts high availability with a reported historical uptime of 99.9996% and strong global operational support.

Weaknesses: While the CloudSuite offers a modern interface, the underlying Infor LN is sometimes perceived as having a legacy user interface and limited cloud-native features like universal search. Users may experience a notable learning curve and occasional dissatisfaction with certain reporting functionalities. The community support for Infor LN is sometimes noted as less extensive than for other ERPs. Customization, while possible, might be less flexible for highly unique business requirements compared to some alternatives, and integration with certain older third-party tools can be challenging. It is also less suited for process-centric manufacturing operations.

Recommendations: Infor LN CloudSuite is highly recommended for upper mid-market to large enterprises in discrete manufacturing sectors such as automotive, aerospace, and industrial equipment. It is particularly beneficial for companies with complex, project-centric manufacturing models and multi-site global operations that can leverage its robust financial and supply chain management capabilities. Organizations seeking to reduce IT infrastructure costs, benefit from continuous innovation through automatic updates, and maintain high security and compliance standards will find significant value in this solution. Potential adopters should consider the learning curve and evaluate their specific customization and integration needs to ensure alignment with the system's strengths.

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.