ERP for service providers compared: An overview of the 10 best systems

In the digitized world of services, it is no longer enough to control processes manually or with individual solutions. Companies that work on a project basis, want to adapt flexibly to new requirements and at the same time use their resources efficiently need integrated systems that can do more than just accounting or time recording. Stand-alone solutions have had their day because they are too inefficient. This is where ERP systems come into play – tailor-made solutions that standardize operational processes, create transparency and make growth scalable.

For service providers—whether IT companies, agencies, consulting firms, or technical service providers—the requirements are often particularly complex. It's not just about classic functions such as invoicing or financial accounting, but also project management, time tracking, customer relationship management (CRM), resource planning, controlling, and ease of use for employees who are often not IT experts.

Service companies are under pressure to deliver precise results with as little administrative effort as possible – whether in the form of customer projects, support services, campaigns, or consulting mandates. Revenue often depends directly on the time spent and the transparency of the project. A suitable ERP system provides support in:

the automated mapping of project and business processes

the seamless linking of time recording, resource planning, and billing

real-time controlling of projects and budgets

the integration of CRM and support functions

integration with existing tools and system landscapes

On the other hand, the “wrong” ERP can complicate processes, be expensive to maintain, and overwhelm employees—especially in smaller teams. Therefore, a structured selection process is essential.

The ideal ERP solution for a service company not only meets industry-specific requirements, but can also be flexibly adapted to individual needs. The following criteria should be the focus when making a selection:

Industry focus & specialization: Is the system designed for the requirements of project-based companies?

Modularity & scalability: Can functions be added or reduced as needed?

Project management & controlling: Are there integrated tools for planning, monitoring, and billing projects?

Time tracking: How easy is it to record working hours on a project-specific basis?

CRM & customer communication: How tightly is customer support integrated into the system?

User-friendliness: Is the system intuitive to use, even for non-technical users?

Cloud vs. on-premises: Which deployment model fits your IT strategy?

Interfaces & integrations: Can the ERP be integrated into existing system landscapes (e.g., accounting, support, BI)?

Support, training, and further development: How reliable is the provider in day-to-day collaboration?

We present ten systems that are particularly suitable for service providers—each with its own focus and value proposition.

Projektron BCS is much more than just an ERP system—it is a comprehensive tool for planning, controlling, and evaluating complex projects in service-oriented companies. The web-based solution is primarily aimed at companies whose core business consists of implementing and coordinating projects: software developers, engineering firms, agencies, IT service providers, consultancies, and public contractors. Its modular structure, methodological depth, and high flexibility make BCS particularly attractive for companies that want to digitize more than just standard processes.

Browser-based, multi-client capable, individually configurable

Projektron BCS is completely web-based and runs either as an on-premises solution or from the German cloud – GDPR-compliant, ISO 27001-certified, and hosted in a high-security data center. Access is platform-independent via a browser, and the interface is intuitive and role-based. Particularly noteworthy: Almost every component can be individually configured – whether fields, workflows, rights, templates, or dashboards.

The multi-client capability makes the system ideal for corporate groups or organizations with multiple departments or customer groups that want to keep data clearly separate.

Specialized ERP functions for service providers – developed with practical experience

Unlike many broad-based ERP systems, Projektron BCS was developed specifically for project-centered service companies – and this is evident in all areas:

Advantages at a glance: Project depth, adaptability, and practical relevance

Limitations? Almost only where you don't have projects

Projektron BCS is not a typical ERP system for retail companies or manufacturing industries with complex warehouse logistics, parts list management, or production planning. Service providers with these requirements will often find more suitable tools in classic ERP systems such as Haufe X360, SAP Business One, or Microsoft Dynamics.

However, for project-driven companies that want to systematically plan, execute, bill, and analyze their orders, there is hardly a solution that is as specialized, functionally deep, and flexible as Projektron BCS.

Support & implementation: Personal, German-speaking, close to the customer

Projektron BCS is implemented by our in-house consulting team – no external partners, no complex sales structure. Our experts know the system inside out and accompany customers from initial contact to go-live. Training courses, e-learning, video tutorials, free consultation hours, and personal contact persons ensure that the system is not only implemented but also understood and used.

Price structure: Transparent and investment-safe

BCS is licensed on a user basis – with a clear price structure, regardless of data volume or the number of projects. Thanks to its modular expandability, the system grows with the company without reaching its limits. Both rental and purchase models are possible, as is hosting by Projektron or on your own servers.

ERP systems are now among the most important digital tools for companies looking to streamline, scale, or better integrate their processes. For service providers, who often work on a project basis, it is not only solid basic functionality that is important, but also functional depth, flexibility, and adaptability. Haufe X360 is a cloud-based ERP system designed specifically for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Germany – modern, modular and with a comprehensive range of functions. But how well does it meet the requirements of project-oriented service companies?

Cloud-native architecture with a focus on SMEs

Haufe X360 is based on the internationally proven Acumatica ERP platform, but has been adapted and further developed for the German market. The system runs entirely in the cloud and offers a browser-based interface that works on all common end devices. A clear advantage for companies with

multiple locations

mobile field service

hybrid working models

The cloud architecture not only enables easy scaling, but also fast updates, access security, and integration with common third-party systems—for example, in the areas of CRM, e-commerce, or payment.

Broad portfolio of functions: From finance to production

Limitations: Functionality not always fully developed

Despite its broad functionality, Haufe X360 reaches certain limits in areas that require more in-depth or highly customizable processes. This is particularly true for service companies that place high demands on project management, resource planning, or company-specific workflows.

Project management: Standardized, but lacking methodological depth

Haufe X360 is well positioned for simple project structures. Effort estimates, budgeting, project times, and invoicing can be mapped.

However, anyone working with multiple parallel projects (multi-project management or portfolio management), agile methods, role and rights models, or Gantt charts will quickly encounter functional limitations. Features such as individual workflows, Kanban-based task management, or portfolio overviews are not (yet) included in the standard scope.

Service processes: Basic functions available, integration could be improved

The integrated service management is aimed more at technical service providers with clearly structured processes. Where complex resource planning, escalation management, or integration with ongoing projects are required, some manual adjustments or additional tools are necessary.

Reporting: Customizable, but sometimes complex to implement

The reporting functions are based on a powerful query tool, but sometimes require technical expertise for customized reports. Predefined standard reports are available, but are not always sufficient for more in-depth business analyses or project-specific KPIs.

Accounting: Strong, but with international legacy issues

Although adapted to German requirements, the origins of the US system are evident in some areas, such as document types, posting logic, and reporting. DATEV interfaces are available, but some manual adjustments are required.

Support & implementation: Partner concept with advantages and disadvantages

Price structure: Fairly calculated, but with hidden pitfalls

Pricing is based on a modular cloud model. Companies pay monthly per active user and per module used. This keeps the initial investment manageable, but as requirements and data volumes grow, monthly costs can rise sharply. Additional services such as training, customization, or support packages are often added. Smaller companies in particular should carefully consider what they need—and what they don't.

ZEP (“Time Tracking for Projects”) is a lean, cloud-based solution that focuses on what many service companies need every day: fast, legally compliant, and accurate time tracking. Designed for project-based teams, freelancers, and smaller service providers with a focus on project billing, ZEP offers exactly the features needed for reliable time tracking, billing, and evaluation—nothing more, nothing less.

Quick to get started, intuitive to use, no training required

ZEP runs entirely in the cloud, with no installation required – simply register, log in, and get started. The interface is clearly structured and easy to use, even for inexperienced users. Employees record their times via browser, app, or time clock interface; project managers then evaluate the data, assign services, and export them for billing.

Thanks to automatic updates and cloud-based infrastructure, ZEP is maintenance-free—ideal for companies that do not operate their own IT and prefer lean processes.

Time tracking as a core competency—and more

Modularly expandable, but functionally focused

ZEP has a modular structure: basic functions can be expanded with additional modules, for example for invoicing, travel expenses, project controlling, or vacation management. This makes the solution flexible – but also clearly limited. Functions such as multi-level workflows, risk or knowledge management, portfolio planning, customer portals, or agile methods (Scrum, Kanban) are either completely missing or only available in a very basic form.

Unlike ERP systems such as Projektron BCS or Haufe X360, there is no deep integration of project management methods – projects exist as time tracking and billing contexts, not as living planning and control units. Individual workflows, role permissions, or specific reports are also hardly customizable.

Strengths of ZEP at a glance:

Quick start, easy to use: Ready to use immediately without training, ideal for small teams or sole traders.

Legal certainty for time tracking: GDPR-compliant, GoBD-secure, working time-compliant – a plus for audits and documentation requirements.

Predictable costs and cloud-based operation: No infrastructure required, updates and data backup included.

Functional focus on time tracking & invoicing: If that's what you're looking for – without any extra features – ZEP is the right choice.

Limitations: not a complete ERP system, no project methodology

ZEP is not a full-fledged ERP system, but a specialized solution for time and project tracking, supplemented by basic features such as invoicing and vacation management.

For companies with more complex requirements – e.g., in the areas of project planning, workflows, controlling, or method integration – ZEP quickly reaches its limits.

The need to switch to a more comprehensive system becomes particularly apparent when multiple teams are working on projects in parallel, resources need to be planned on a weekly or monthly basis, risks need to be assessed, quotes need to be calculated, and projects need to be systematically managed.

weclapp is one of the best-known cloud-based ERP solutions from Germany and is primarily aimed at small and medium-sized enterprises. The software places great emphasis on user-friendliness and rapid deployment. Without the need for complex IT infrastructure, companies can get started with just a few clicks and receive a system that seamlessly connects sales, customer management, and commercial processes.

This makes weclapp particularly attractive for agencies, IT service providers, and smaller consulting firms—anywhere where services are clearly structured and standard processes dominate. The cloud-based architecture allows access from anywhere, and the modern interface is clear and self-explanatory.

Solid basic functions—especially for CRM and billing

Project management: Functional, but not very methodical

However, when it comes to more complex project requirements, weclapp reaches its limits. Although projects can be created, budgets can be set, and times can be booked for tasks, there is a lack of methodological depth.

Project management in weclapp remains more administrative than strategic: Gantt charts, agile methods such as Scrum or Kanban, portfolio management, role and rights management at project level, and individual workflows are all missing.

The range of functions is usually sufficient for smaller companies or simple service projects. However, those who work with parallel projects, complex resource plans, or methodological requirements will not find the necessary tools in weclapp—specialized solutions such as Projektron BCS offer significantly more depth in this area.

Service processes and support functions with basic scope

Although weclapp offers a simple ticket system for managing customer inquiries, real service processes – such as escalation logic, resource planning, or links to project planning – are only available in a rudimentary form. This range of functions is rarely sufficient for organizations with a strong project service business or technical support.

Advantages in terms of usability – but little scope for customization

A major advantage is its intuitive usability: weclapp aims to enable users to quickly find their way around without training. At the same time, this consistent standardization is also a weakness, as customization to specific processes, individual fields, or role-based control is only possible to a limited extent.

In addition, as a cloud solution, weclapp is offered exclusively via its own data center in Germany. This is an advantage for many companies from a data protection perspective, but it also reduces the integration options with on-premise systems or third-party applications that require a more open API.

Odoo is an open-source ERP system that, with over 30 main modules and thousands of community extensions, is one of the most flexible business platforms worldwide. Originally developed in Belgium, it is now used internationally, especially by start-ups, medium-sized companies with a high level of digital affinity, and companies looking for software solutions tailored precisely to their needs.

The idea behind Odoo is that companies can customize their ERP environment like a building block system. Modules for accounting, sales, human resources, project management, warehousing, help desk, and e-commerce can be combined as desired. Odoo can be operated as a cloud solution (Odoo Online) or fully self-hosted (Odoo Community), making it particularly attractive for internationally active or data-sovereign organizations.

Wide range of functions – with great potential for process mapping

Strengths in integration – weaknesses in methodological management

Odoo scores particularly well when a large number of processes need to be integrated, such as sales, project management, and warehousing. In such cases, data sources can be elegantly linked. However, there is a limited methodological focus in project management. Although there are tools for agile sprints, resource planning, and task management, more in-depth functions such as project portfolio management, earned value analysis, sophisticated controlling tools, and comprehensive role and rights concepts at the project level are lacking.

This shows that Odoo offers a great deal of flexibility and breadth, but no consistent methodology. This may be sufficient for agencies or production-oriented companies, but anyone who wants to map professional project structures and scale them in the long term will encounter functional and organizational limitations.

International community – but no real support from a single source

Another difference from traditional ERP providers is that Odoo is supported by a large international community. While this has advantages in terms of innovation and expandability, many companies lack a central point of contact with a deep understanding of German SMEs. There are certified partners, but their quality and industry knowledge vary greatly.

In regulated or high-security environments (e.g., healthcare, public administration, research institutions), there is often a lack of references or evidence of compliance with standards such as ISO 27001, TISAX, or GoBD – aspects that are an integral part of specialized solutions such as Projektron BCS.

Munixo, the ERP platform from Garching-based provider Novicon, is aimed at medium-sized companies that value integrated business processes and individual configurability. Unlike many traditional ERP systems, Munixo is not designed as a rigid complete system, but as a flexibly expandable platform concept. Companies can put together their own system from various modules – from core ERP functions to CRM, project management, HR, and DMS to business intelligence and controlling.

This modular architecture enables a high degree of customization for different areas of the company. Whether you are a service provider, a manufacturing SME, or an organization with industry-specific requirements, Munixo can be configured to suit your specific processes. Not only are individual functions adapted, but the user interfaces, dashboards, and data models are also tailored to the company's way of working. The platform is available both as a cloud solution via German data centers and on-premise, providing even data-sensitive industries with a flexible basis for their digital process landscape.

Customizability without programming knowledge

Recurring services, support contracts, and managed services can also be clearly mapped, including budget monitoring and performance reports.

Munixo emphasizes close integration between project and company management: projects are not treated as separate entities, but are deeply integrated into the rest of the company's logic.

For example, sales opportunities from CRM can be transferred directly to projects, and project costs flow seamlessly into financial accounting. This end-to-end transparency makes Munixo particularly interesting for companies where project work, customer relationships, and commercial processes are closely intertwined.

Business intelligence directly integrated

Another advantage of Munixo is its integrated business intelligence system. Instead of having to connect external BI tools, the platform itself offers extensive analysis and reporting functions. Companies can generate pivot tables, dashboards, PDF reports, and even table analyses directly from existing data. The reports can be created not only statically, but also interactively – for example, with drilldowns, filters, or live data tiles on the start screen.

This integrated BI expertise enables managers to track key figures from a wide range of areas – from sales and project performance to finance and capacity utilization – in a single system. At the same time, the effort required for data exports and manual evaluations is significantly reduced. For companies that work in a data-driven manner or require precise reporting, Munixo offers a powerful tool – without any additional license costs for third-party systems.

Customer experiences and application scenarios

Feedback from Munixo customers shows that medium-sized companies with different departments benefit particularly from the system. IT service providers use the integrated ticket system for customer support, while engineering firms use the project area with billable time tracking. Production-related companies appreciate the connection between order processing, warehousing, and CRM. Munixo is also used in research and development, for example by organizations that have to meet complex reporting requirements and budget targets.

Many users see the modular entry point as an advantage: companies can start with core functionality—such as project management and time tracking—and gradually add further modules. The support provided by Novicon is generally described as reliable and solution-oriented. In some areas, the user guidance and the quality of the documentation could be improved, especially when highly customized processes need to be implemented.

Pricing model and investment framework

Munixo is not one of the cheapest ERP solutions, but it offers solid value for money – especially for companies with multiple departments or specific control requirements. The entry-level package, “ERP Starter,” costs around €9,900 one-time and €990 per month for five users. It already includes key functions such as CRM, project management, time tracking, DATEV export, and financial accounting. More comprehensive packages, such as “ERP Service,” start at around €14,900 and include additional functions such as intercompany, XRechnung, REST API, and DMS.

The prices may seem high at first glance, but they are quite competitive compared to individually programmed ERP systems or complex industry solutions. Companies that work with Munixo on a long-term basis and set themselves up well in terms of configuration benefit from continuous development, functional breadth, and low follow-up costs for expansions.

Sage is one of the world's largest providers of business software for small and medium-sized enterprises. The British company has established itself in the German market with a range of products that are particularly well known among retail companies, service providers, and skilled trades. The spectrum ranges from lean entry-level solutions for financial accounting to full-fledged ERP systems with warehouse management, production, and human resources management.

In Germany, Sage 100 is one of the most widely used ERP products. It offers a modular structure that can be used to map commercial processes and operational workflows – from merchandise management and CRM to payroll accounting and project management. Sage combines a certain degree of standardization with adaptability via its own customizing framework. This provides companies with a solution that works reliably and can also grow with them.

Core functions and typical areas of application

Customizability via AppDesigner and partner solutions

What sets Sage 100 apart from many standard solutions is its integrated AppDesigner. This allows masks, input fields, menu structures, and even logic within the system to be customized without changing the core system. This means that customer-specific adjustments are retained even after updates. This option is primarily used by IT-savvy companies or Sage partners to implement departmental requirements as precisely as possible.

Sage also pursues a strong partner approach. Numerous system houses in Germany distribute, configure, and support the software. In addition, there is a wide range of certified extensions—from DMS systems and BI tools to industry solutions for wholesale, skilled trades, and project-based services, for example. Those who need to delve deeper into specific special processes will often find suitable solutions through these partners.

Cloud or on-premise: flexible operating models

One advantage of Sage is the choice between different deployment models. While smaller products such as Sage 50 and Sage Business Cloud are offered purely as cloud-based solutions, Sage 100 can be run locally on your own servers or via hosting partners in German data centers. Sage's cloud strategy has been significantly advanced in recent years, but remains rather conservative compared to younger cloud ERP providers. Updates are not automatic and must be actively installed, depending on the hosting provider.

For many medium-sized companies, this can be an advantage: they retain control over their system, their data, and their infrastructure. At the same time, Sage offers options for connecting external systems via modern interfaces such as REST API and web services. Office 365 integrations, automatic document recognition, and mobile functions are also available depending on the version, although this technological modernity has not been consistently implemented across the board.

Customer experiences and real-world use

Sage customers particularly praise the stability of the system, the wide availability of service providers, and the solid mapping of business processes. Many users feel particularly well supported in the financial area. The learning curve is moderate, partly because many processes follow the familiar structure of classic merchandise management or accounting systems. However, there are also reports that some functions appear outdated or cannot compete with more modern cloud ERPs such as weclapp or Odoo in terms of usability.

In practice, satisfaction often depends heavily on the supporting partner: those who rely on a competent system house with industry experience can make good use of the advantages of Sage. On the other hand, those who start without intensive customization may encounter limitations, for example in mobile use, reporting, or more complex process chains across multiple modules.

Pricing model and economic classification

Sage's cost structure is relatively traditional: licenses are charged per user and module, plus implementation costs, customization, and, if necessary, hosting costs. The entry-level package for Sage 100 usually starts at around €6,000–10,000 in license costs plus monthly maintenance and update fees. Depending on the partner, implementation costs of between €10,000 and €25,000 can be added, depending on the complexity and scope of the modules.

For companies that already have experience with ERP implementations or are specifically looking for a financially strong solution with a broad partner market, Sage offers good value for money. However, those who want to get started as quickly and leanly as possible without much partner commitment will often find modern SaaS systems easier to access.

Xentral is an ERP system “Made in Germany” that scores highly thanks to its speed, ease of use, and cloud architecture. Originally developed for the e-commerce sector, Xentral is now aimed at small to medium-sized companies in a wide range of industries, from online retailers and manufacturers to agencies. The system promises a central solution for inventory management, logistics, finance, project management, and CRM.

But how well does Xentral perform in the everyday life of service companies? And where do its strengths and weaknesses lie in comparison to specialized solutions such as Projektron BCS?

Modern, fast, and intuitive – the advantages of Xentral

Xentral impresses above all with its clear focus on lean processes and intuitive user guidance. The cloud application can be used entirely in a browser and can be set up relatively quickly – in many cases within a few days. Young companies and startups that need a system that is available quickly benefit in particular from the uncomplicated setup and modular expandability.

Particularly noteworthy is the strong focus on retail and logistics processes. Integrated warehouse management, connections to shop systems such as Shopify, WooCommerce, and Amazon, and automations in order processing make Xentral an attractive solution for companies with a focus on e-commerce.

The interface also looks clean and modern. Many functions can be customized or expanded with a single click, and a growing number of integrations (e.g., DATEV, Lexoffice, DHL, Google Workspace) support the seamless connection of existing tools.

Project management and services: Limited applicability

Accounting and reporting: Integrated, but limited

When it comes to financial accounting, Xentral offers an integrated solution with invoicing, dunning, sales statistics, and a DATEV interface. This is sufficient for many smaller companies, especially if they use external tax advice.

However, for more demanding requirements (e.g., advanced cost center accounting, balancing, cash flow planning), supplementary tools or third-party connections are recommended. Reporting is also clear, but limited in terms of customization. Custom reports or consistent KPIs for project-related controlling must either be generated externally or programmed individually.

In comparison, solutions such as Projektron BCS offer significantly more sophisticated reporting that is tailored to the needs of project-oriented companies.

Support, training, and community: Small but dedicated

Xentral relies heavily on online support, help desk articles, tutorials, and a community of partners and users. This works well as long as the requirements remain within the standard range. However, personal support with in-depth product knowledge or complex customization can be time-consuming or costly.

Implementation is usually carried out by certified partners. Here, too, a lot depends on the quality of the service provider – a risk that is less likely to arise with direct support from a single source (such as Projektron).

Price structure: Fair, but with potential additional costs

Xentral offers a modular pricing model based on SaaS (Software-as-a-Service). Monthly costs start at around €199 per month for small teams, but scale quickly with the number of users, modules, and integrations required. One-time costs for implementation, training, and partner services may also apply.

What appears inexpensive at first glance can increase significantly in the medium term, depending on the size of the company and its needs. More complex companies with many users or special requirements should calculate carefully whether Xentral is economical in the long term – or whether a more comprehensive system such as Projektron BCS with stable processes and predictable costs is the better choice.

Custable is an ERP solution that has emerged in recent years and deliberately positions itself against overloaded, cumbersome systems. The cloud software is aimed at smaller teams, agencies, and service providers who want to manage their projects, times, invoices, and customer processes centrally, efficiently, and without unnecessary ballast.

But how much ERP is really in Custable? Who is the system suitable for – and when does it start to feel cramped?

Focus on simplicity: Custable for small teams and agencies

Agile methods such as Scrum or Kanban cannot be directly mapped in the system either. Tasks can be assigned to lists and projects, but boards, backlogs, or sprints are nowhere to be found. There are also no integrations with tools such as Jira, GitHub, or other systems that are frequently used in technical service projects.

Billing and accounting: Functional, but no substitute for financial accounting systems

One plus point: Custable allows quotes and invoices to be created directly from within the project context, including time entries. A simple dunning process is also included, as is an overview of open items.

Nevertheless, one thing is clear: Custable is not suitable for complete financial accounting. There is no DATEV export or integration with common accounting programs such as Lexoffice or SevDesk. Tax advisors must obtain their data by other means, which can complicate the process in the long run.

There is also no clear separation of revenues, cost centers, or accounting periods. Custable is therefore only of limited use for companies that work with profit and loss statements or controlling figures.

Scalability: limitations in terms of teams, processes, and integrations

Custable was clearly designed for small to medium-sized companies. The interface is not designed for large numbers of users, and rights and role concepts are kept very simple. There are hardly any interfaces to third-party systems, and individual extensions or APIs are also missing so far.

This means that anyone who uses Custable has to work with what the system offers. Customization is hardly possible, and automation is only possible within very narrow limits. For startups or small agencies that need a simple, functioning system in a short period of time, this is perfectly fine. For growing organizations that want to connect different teams, processes, and systems, Custable is too limited in the long term.

Price and support: Fair, but with a DIY feel

Custable is very affordable: Entry-level costs start at less than €20 per user per month, depending on the package. A free trial period is also available. This makes the solution attractive for cost-conscious founders and start-ups.

When it comes to support, Custable relies heavily on self-service: help articles, email support, and a simple onboarding process guide users through the most important steps. Personal advice or individual training is only available on request – and usually at an additional cost. Those who are well organized will be able to manage on their own. However, those who need a complex setup or external support are better served by other providers.

Myfactory is one of the established cloud ERP systems in German-speaking countries. Based in Munich, the company offers a modular, fully web-based solution that is particularly aimed at small and medium-sized companies in the retail, manufacturing, and service sectors. With around 20 years of market experience and a network of partners behind it, myfactory is a solid, reliable ERP choice, especially for classic business models – albeit with limitations in project-oriented work.

Flexible, modular, web-based: the strengths at a glance

The biggest advantage of myfactory is its flexibility. The system covers all classic ERP areas: merchandise management, financial accounting, CRM, production, warehousing, e-commerce, DMS, and even POS (point of sale). Thanks to its modular structure, the system can be tailored to fit your needs and expanded at a later date.

All modules are completely web-based, making myfactory a true cloud solution – unlike many competitors who offer hybrid models or only make parts of the system available online. The responsive design allows it to be used on tablets and smartphones without the need for an app.

Another advantage is that myfactory is sold both directly and through certified partners who can provide customization, support, and implementation. This is an important plus, especially for companies with specific requirements or a lack of IT infrastructure.

Classic ERP with a clear structure – ideal for retail and manufacturing

Limitations in project management and agile working

However, myfactory is less strong when it comes to project management. Although services, deliverables, and working hours can be bundled into projects, there is no real project structuring with milestones, dependencies, Gantt charts, or agile boards.

Resource planning, personnel allocation, and project-related budgets are also only available in a rudimentary form or via workarounds. This makes myfactory less attractive for companies that not only want to bill projects but also actively control and manage them, for example in IT, engineering, or consulting.

Where tools such as Projektron BCS score points with their methodological depth, project-centric interface, and comprehensive controlling, myfactory remains too generic.

In addition, myfactory lacks direct connections to common project tools such as Jira, Trello, or Git, which makes integration into agile software development or creative processes difficult.

User guidance, interface, and customization

The user interface of myfactory is functional, but its design is more functional than modern. Navigation is via classic menus, and the operating logic is strongly based on established ERP standards – which experienced ERP users appreciate, but which requires some training for beginners.

Customization is possible in principle, but in many cases only by certified partners. There is an open API, but the documentation is somewhat sparse. The form designer, which can be used to customize documents, also requires technical knowledge. This is not a problem for companies with their own IT department, but it can be a hurdle for small teams without ERP experience.

Price structure and target group

Myfactory is priced for traditional small and medium-sized businesses. Costs vary depending on the number of modules and users, but usually start at around €50–80 per user per month, plus one-time setup and, if applicable, hosting costs (if you don't use myfactory's own cloud server). There is no free package, but a free demo and trial version are available through partners.

The target group is small to medium-sized companies with clear structures that are looking for a solid ERP with a high level of functionality for classic business processes – but not start-ups, creative agencies or project-driven service providers with highly iterative, cross-team processes.

In addition to the ERP solutions already compared in detail, such as Projektron BCS, Haufe X360, ZEP, Odoo, weclapp, Xentral, Myfactory, Custable, Sage, and Munxio, there are numerous other systems on the market that also attempt to support project-oriented service providers with an integrated solution for organization, planning, and billing. Some of these systems are aimed at niche markets, others deliberately focus on general applicability, and some offer interesting approaches without quite reaching the top in terms of project management functionality.

Here is a commented overview of other providers that deserve an honorable mention and may be worth a closer look in the future.

Uniconta – Modern cloud technology with a focus on accounting

Uniconta originally comes from Denmark and is also actively marketed in German-speaking countries. It is a completely cloud-based ERP system that does not require local installation and includes classic ERP modules such as accounting, warehousing, sales, and purchasing.

The focus is strongly on financial accounting and less on methodical project management. Although projects can be managed and billed, tools for agile working methods, resource planning, or milestone tracking are largely missing. For companies with highly accounting-driven processes, Uniconta can be an affordable, modern option – but for project-driven service providers, the solution is too superficial.

Teamspace – Integrated working with a focus on small teams

Teamspace promises “Teamwork. Projects. ERP – all in one system.” Behind this is an approach that is primarily designed for smaller companies with flat structures. The software combines time tracking, task management, project budgeting, customer management, and invoicing in one system – similar to Vertec, but with a stronger focus on collaboration and ease of use.

This is attractive for agencies, freelancers, or small consulting teams with a clear distribution of tasks. However, the solution lags significantly behind established ERP systems in terms of depth and customizability. Interfaces and reporting functions also appear limited. Those who want to digitize simple workflows will be in good hands here, but those who need to manage large teams or complex project landscapes will quickly reach their limits.

Scopevisio – Data protection-compliant cloud ERP with a strong finance module

Scopevisio positions itself as a cloud ERP from Germany with a focus on data protection and compliance. The solution covers all classic ERP areas – from CRM and accounting to document management and HR. The system is particularly strong in financial accounting and business intelligence.

The integrated project module offers basic functions for service providers, including task planning, budget tracking, and time recording. However, visualization options (e.g., Gantt charts), agile boards, and resource management are missing. The interface also appears cluttered in places. Scopevisio is therefore more of an all-round ERP with a commercial focus than a specialist for projects.

microtech büro+ – ERP for retail and manufacturing with limited project depth

Microtech is best known for its büro+ solution, an ERP system that is strongly geared toward small and medium-sized companies with clear processes in retail, shipping, or contract manufacturing. Its strengths lie in merchandise management, order management, and process automation.

Although a project module exists, it is very rudimentary and limited to assigning services to customers or internal processes. For IT service providers, agencies, or consultancies, it lacks the methodological depth offered by other systems. Microtech scores where processes are highly standardized – not in complex project structures.

proALPHA – ERP powerhouse for manufacturing companies

Proalpha is one of the heavyweights in the German ERP market, focusing on medium-sized industrial companies. The solution is comprehensive, powerful, internationally oriented, and strong in manufacturing, logistics, product configuration, and financial management.

Project-oriented work is of secondary importance at Proalpha: the project modules are used more for cost control and financial tracking than for operational management. Those who have to implement extensive production or manufacturing projects can benefit – but those who plan services, coordinate teams, and work in an agile manner will find Proalpha too powerful and inflexible.

Vertec – Specialist for project-oriented service providers, but limited in depth

Vertec is one of the few systems specifically designed for project-based service providers, particularly consulting firms, engineering offices, law firms, and agencies. Time tracking, performance documentation, and invoicing are at the core of the system. The software has a modular structure and allows recurring project structures to be mapped effectively.

However, what is missing is a deeper methodological integration of project management: resource planning, project tracking at the work package level, and agile planning forms are only possible to a limited extent. Vertec is a solid choice for law firms or consultants with clear, repetitive processes, but it lacks the depth required for companies that organize complex projects with many dependencies and roles.

Other systems with a generic ERP focus (without a project-specific focus)

In addition to the tools mentioned above, the first three results pages on Google also list other ERP systems that are marketed as industry-agnostic but play hardly any role in the context of project-based service companies. These include, for example:

• SAP Business One – geared more toward classic processes in medium-sized businesses, with little focus on agile project management.
• Lexbizz – Cloud ERP from Lexware, strongly accounting-driven, but weak in the project area.
• Business Central (Microsoft) – quite flexible, but high customization and licensing costs, especially for SMEs.
• easybill, sevDesk, Billomat – originally from the invoicing sector, now partly with rudimentary ERP elements – but no real project orientation.
• Bitrix24, Zoho, monday.com, Asana – project tools with CRM elements, but no complete ERP.

Choosing the right ERP system is a strategic decision for service providers—and often a long-term one. There is a wide variety of providers, but not every software solution is suited to the project-based way of working that is common in service companies. Here are our most important tips for choosing the right system:

1. Check the project focus—don't just write ERP on the label

Many systems offer some kind of “project module,” but not all of them are methodically well thought out or practical. If you want to not only bill projects but also plan, control, and evaluate them, you need more than just time tracking with a label.

2. Recognize industry requirements – and don't underestimate them

Not all services are the same: an agency works differently than a consulting firm, and a software company differently than an engineering firm. Look for references and features that fit your industry – ideally without time-consuming customization.

3. Consider long-term scalability

What suits your team today must also work tomorrow. Check: Can the system be expanded? Is there a robust role and rights concept? What about API, interfaces, and data sovereignty?

4. Transparency before automation

Automated processes are good – but not if you lose track of them at some point.

Good ERP systems make project progress, resources, and cost structures transparent for everyone involved.

5. Use a demo with real use cases

Request demos that depict realistic scenarios with realistic personas. No glossy presentations or test customer accounts, just your everyday project work: How are tasks distributed? How are planning, communication, and billing handled?