Syspro ERP

Basic Information

SYSPRO ERP is an enterprise resource planning software solution designed specifically for manufacturing and distribution companies, catering to mid-market and SME businesses. Established in 1978, SYSPRO provides a comprehensive suite of tools for financial management, inventory management, supply chain management, and business operations.

• Model: SYSPRO ERP
• Version: SYSPRO 8 (latest major version)
• Release Date: SYSPRO 8 has seen continuous updates; specific major release dates vary by update.
• Minimum Requirements: Varies significantly based on deployment model (on-premise vs. cloud) and scale. Generally requires a Windows Server environment for the application and database, with specific hardware recommendations for optimal performance.
• Supported Operating Systems:
  • Server: Windows Server 2022, 2019, 2016. Older versions like Windows Server 2012 R2 are supported but may have end-of-support considerations.
  • Client: Windows 11, Windows 10. Older versions like Windows 8.1, 8, and 7 are supported but may have end-of-support considerations.
  • Database: Microsoft SQL Server 2022, 2019, 2017, 2016. Older versions like SQL Server 2014 and 2012 are supported but may have end-of-support considerations.
• Latest Stable Version: SYSPRO 8, with ongoing updates and feature releases.
• End of Support Date: Not explicitly stated as a single date for the entire product, but specific older operating systems and SQL Server versions have their own end-of-support timelines from Microsoft, which SYSPRO adheres to.
• End of Life Date: Not explicitly stated as a single date for the entire product, as SYSPRO is continuously developed and updated.
• License Type: Offers both perpetual licenses (one-time purchase, typically per concurrent user) and subscription licenses (monthly or annual, per user).
• Deployment Model: On-premise, Cloud (SaaS hosted on AWS or private cloud), or Hybrid.

Technical Requirements

SYSPRO ERP's technical requirements are designed to support robust enterprise operations, with scalability for various business sizes and complexities.

• RAM:
  • Application Server: Sufficient RAM for the operating system plus 4GB to 8GB per SYSPRO APS (Application Server) session, depending on complexity and data volume.
  • Database Server: Varies based on database size and activity; typically requires substantial RAM for optimal SQL Server performance.
• Processor:
  • Application Server: Dedicated processor core recommended for each SYSPRO APS session due to processor-intensive operations.
  • Database Server: Multi-core processors are essential for handling database queries and transactions efficiently.
• Storage:
  • Application & Database Servers: High-performance storage solutions like RAID 1+0 are recommended for optimal performance and data protection. Allow 1GB of disk space per SYSPRO MOM instance, plus additional space for attachments and database growth.
• Display: Standard display resolutions suitable for modern business applications. SYSPRO Web UI (Avanti) is web-based, adapting to various screen sizes.
• Ports: TCP Ports 80 and 443 for web access (HTTP/HTTPS), and typically TCP Port 8081 or 8082 for communication between SYSPRO and web servers.
• Operating System:
  • Server: Microsoft Windows Server 2022, 2019, 2016 (64-bit).
  • Client: Microsoft Windows 11, 10 (64-bit).
  • Database: Microsoft SQL Server 2022, 2019, 2017, 2016.

Analysis of Technical Requirements

The technical requirements for SYSPRO ERP emphasize a robust Microsoft-centric environment, indicating a strong integration with Windows Server and SQL Server technologies. The recommendation for dedicated processor cores per application session and high-performance storage highlights the system's design for handling intensive transactional workloads typical of manufacturing and distribution. Scalability is inherent, allowing organizations to tailor hardware to their specific user count and data volume. For cloud deployments, these infrastructure considerations are managed by the cloud provider, simplifying IT overhead for the customer.

Support & Compatibility

SYSPRO ERP offers comprehensive support and is designed for compatibility within its target industries.

• Latest Version: SYSPRO 8.
• OS Support:
  • Server: Windows Server 2022, 2019, 2016.
  • Client: Windows 11, 10.
  • Database: Microsoft SQL Server 2022, 2019, 2017, 2016.
• End of Support Date: Follows Microsoft's lifecycle for underlying operating systems and database platforms. SYSPRO provides ongoing updates and support for its current major version.
• Localization: Supports multiple languages, including French, Chinese, German, Russian, and Spanish, requiring the Windows operating system to be installed in English with regional settings adjusted.
• Available Drivers: Utilizes standard database drivers for Microsoft SQL Server. Integration with third-party applications often occurs via APIs and e.net business objects.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status

SYSPRO maintains strong compatibility with current Microsoft server and client operating systems and SQL Server versions, which is crucial for enterprise environments. The modular nature of the software allows for tailored implementations, and its API access facilitates integration with third-party extensions. Localization support ensures its global applicability. While specific end-of-support dates for the ERP itself are not broadly published, its reliance on Microsoft products means customers must monitor Microsoft's lifecycle policies for underlying infrastructure. SYSPRO offers training and certification programs to enhance user proficiency and support.

Security Status

SYSPRO ERP incorporates multiple layers of security to protect sensitive business data.

• Security Features: Password control, group and operator maintenance, granular access control down to business processes, modules, menus, and program functions. Electronic signatures provide transaction-level security and support segregation of duties.
• Known Vulnerabilities: SYSPRO conducts regression and security testing on new releases and code reviews for intrusion and vulnerability. Specific public CVEs are not commonly highlighted, indicating a proactive approach to security within releases.
• Blacklist Status: Not applicable to the software itself. Security reputation is maintained through adherence to best practices and certifications.
• Certifications: Maintains ISO 27001:2022 certification for its Information Security Management System (ISMS). Also participates in CSA STAR Level 1, promoting transparency in cloud security.
• Encryption Support: Supports encryption of endpoints (e.g., HTTPS, TLS) and data encryption at rest and during transport.
• Authentication Methods:
  • Traditional username and password.
  • Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) via email or Google Authenticator (Time-based One-time Password - TOTP).
  • Single Sign-On (SSO) integration with Identity Providers (e.g., Google, Microsoft, LinkedIn) available from SYSPRO 8 2023.
  • SSO using Active Directory available from SYSPRO 8 2019 R2.
• General Recommendations: Implement strong password policies, leverage MFA and SSO, define granular access controls, and regularly monitor system activity and audit trails.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating

SYSPRO ERP demonstrates a strong commitment to security, offering robust features for access control, data protection, and authentication. The adoption of ISO 27001:2022 and participation in CSA STAR Level 1 provide external validation of its security posture. Support for modern authentication methods like MFA and SSO, including integration with Active Directory and identity providers, enhances user convenience while fortifying against unauthorized access. Granular control over transactions and processes, coupled with audit trails, helps maintain data integrity and compliance. Overall, SYSPRO provides a secure platform, especially when implemented with recommended best practices.

Performance & Benchmarks

SYSPRO ERP's performance is optimized for its target industries, focusing on efficiency in manufacturing and distribution processes.

• Benchmark Scores: SYSPRO does not typically publish generic benchmark scores like hardware. Performance is often measured in real-world scenarios and case studies.
• Real-world Performance Metrics: Designed for real-time data analysis, improved productivity, and streamlined processes. Users report efficient handling of production runs, inventory tracking, and order processing. The system supports parallel processing to enhance transaction times.
• Power Consumption: Not directly applicable to the software. Power consumption and carbon footprint depend on the underlying infrastructure (on-premise hardware or cloud data centers). Cloud deployments can offer efficiencies through shared resources.
• Carbon Footprint: Not directly applicable to the software. Dependent on the energy efficiency of the deployment environment.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: Competes with major ERP solutions like Microsoft Dynamics, SAP S/4HANA, Oracle NetSuite ERP, and Acumatica Cloud ERP. Reviewers often rate SYSPRO highly for service and support, ease of integration and deployment, and evaluation/contracting compared to some competitors. Its strength lies in its industry-specific focus for manufacturing and distribution.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status

SYSPRO ERP is engineered for high performance in its specialized domains of manufacturing and distribution. Its architecture, which recommends dedicated processor cores for application sessions and high-speed storage, indicates a design focused on handling intensive data processing and transactional volumes. The system's ability to provide real-time visibility and support complex operations like multi-level Bills of Materials and Manufacturing Operations Management (MOM) out-of-the-box demonstrates its efficiency. While direct benchmark scores are not common, user feedback and its industry-specific design suggest strong real-world performance, particularly in optimizing operational efficiency and decision-making. Scalability is a key performance aspect, allowing the system to grow with businesses from 10 to over 1,000 users.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews and feedback for SYSPRO ERP generally highlight its strengths in industry-specific functionality and user experience, while also noting areas for improvement.

• Strengths:
  • Industry-Specific Functionality: Highly praised for its deep capabilities tailored for manufacturing and distribution, including advanced production planning, inventory management, and supply chain optimization.
  • User-Friendly Interface: Often described as intuitive and easy to navigate, with customizable dashboards and user-defined views.
  • Customizability and Flexibility: Allows tailoring to specific business needs through configurations and customization options, including API access for third-party integrations.
  • Scalability: Suitable for small to mid-sized businesses and capable of scaling for larger enterprises, supporting growth.
  • Deployment Options: Flexibility with on-premise, cloud, or hybrid deployment models is a significant advantage.
  • Customer Support: Users frequently commend the responsive customer support team.
• Weaknesses:
  • Implementation Costs: While software licensing can be flexible, implementation services and additional modules can lead to higher total costs.
  • Third-Party Add-ons: Requires third-party add-ons for certain functionalities like EDI, shipping notifications, and native HCM/payroll modules.
  • Updates: Some users have noted that updating the software can be difficult.
  • Mobile Experience: Occasional dissatisfaction expressed with the mobile experience of the web application.
  • Advanced Reporting: While standard reporting is strong, advanced capabilities may require working within environments like Crystal Reports.
• Recommended Use Cases:
  • Manufacturing companies (discrete, process, mixed-mode, assemble-to-order, make-to-order) to streamline production, manage inventory, and improve planning.
  • Distribution and wholesale companies for inventory management, order tracking, and logistics optimization.
  • Businesses requiring strong financial management, including accounting, budgeting, and financial reporting.
  • SMBs and mid-market companies seeking to streamline operations and gain visibility into their supply chain.
  • Industries such as aerospace, automotive, medical devices, electronics, metal fabrication, food and beverage, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals.

Summary

SYSPRO ERP stands as a mature and robust enterprise resource planning solution, specifically tailored to meet the intricate demands of the manufacturing and distribution sectors. Its core strength lies in its deep, industry-specific functionality, offering comprehensive tools for financial management, inventory optimization, supply chain management, and production control. Users consistently praise its intuitive interface, extensive customizability, and flexible deployment options (on-premise, cloud, or hybrid), which allow businesses to adapt the system to their unique operational needs and scale effectively.

The system's technical foundation is solid, built upon a Microsoft ecosystem (Windows Server, SQL Server), ensuring compatibility and a familiar environment for many IT departments. SYSPRO demonstrates a strong commitment to security, evidenced by its ISO 27001:2022 certification, support for advanced authentication methods like MFA and SSO, and granular access controls. Performance is geared towards real-time data processing and operational efficiency, crucial for fast-paced manufacturing and distribution environments.

However, potential users should be aware that while SYSPRO offers a rich feature set, certain functionalities like native HCM/payroll or advanced reporting may require third-party integrations or specialized tools, which can impact the total cost of ownership. Some users have also noted challenges with software updates and occasional limitations in the mobile experience.

Overall, SYSPRO ERP is an excellent choice for manufacturing and distribution companies, particularly small to mid-sized enterprises, seeking a specialized, scalable, and secure ERP solution that can streamline operations, enhance decision-making, and support long-term growth. Its focus on industry-specific challenges and strong support infrastructure make it a competitive option in the ERP market.

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.