Description
ECi M1 is a complete enterprise resource planning (ERP) system that provides total automation of financials, inventory, production, sales/quoting, and production planning. The software is designed for small to midsized firms who manufacture via repetitive, make-to-stock, make-to-order, engineer-to-order processes.
M1 is fairly unique among its competitors by offering its MRP module on a best-of-breed basis. As a result, we see M1 being a very suitable option for companies looking to grow into an ERP system and distribute their costs over time. The system also offers features for inventory barcoding, shop floor control, and customizable reporting with Crystal Reports.
ECi offers a few other unique aspects that buyers don’t see from most ERP vendors. Those key differentiators include free “view only” licenses for buyers who just need to view and edit reports, (often saving buyers thousands in concurrent licensing fees), “Smart Screen Technology” that automatically changes screens based on users’ input, and a free M1 Design Studio that allows users to customize the system without accessing the source code or requiring extensive programming knowledge.
We have heard very positive reviews of the ECi staff and their implementation processes. ECi sells and supports software directly, not relying on dealers and value-added resellers. We often see vendors with direct sales maintaining tight control over system sales and implementation. ECi currently supports over 800 customers and we expect them to maintain their forward momentum.