Top 12 Cloud-based Supply Chain Management Software to consider for your business

Managing a supply chain can be a complex task. If you’re like most businesses, you’ve likely experienced disruptions or inefficiencies in your operations. According to a recent survey, only 6% of companies report full visibility of their supply chains, leaving 69% in the dark. That’s a huge risk, especially when disruptions can cause financial losses of up to 62%.

Luckily, cloud-based supply chain management software can help eliminate these challenges. These tools enable businesses to improve visibility, automate processes, and make data-driven decisions. In this blog, we will explore the top 12 cloud-based Supply Chain Management software solutions that can help streamline your supply chain operations, reduce costs, and give you a competitive edge.

Criteria for Choosing the Best SCM Software

Choosing the right cloud-based SCM software for your business can be overwhelming, especially with so many options. Here are a few criteria to consider:

• Ease of Integration: How well does the software integrate with your existing systems (ERP, CRM, etc.)?
• Customization: Does it allow you to tailor the features to your unique needs?
• Analytics and Reporting: Look for a solution that provides actionable data, so you can make informed decisions.
• Pricing: Consider the subscription model and ensure it fits your budget.
• Support: Make sure the software provider offers strong customer support to assist you when needed.

Top 12 Cloud-Based Supply Chain Management Software Solutions for 2024

Software	Best For	Pros	Cons
GoComet	Businesses prioritizing freight management, real-time visibility, and cost efficiency.	1. Centralizes vendor communication, eliminating emails and calls. 2. Real-time tracking, predictive ETAs, and cost comparison. 3. Automates tasks, saving time and improving efficiency.	1. No SKU-level tracking for detailed inventory management.
Oracle SCM Cloud	Enterprises seeking a scalable, feature-rich platform to manage complex supply chains.	1. Flexible and customizable to diverse business needs. 2. Supports supply chain operations effectively. 3. Provides predictive analytics for better decisions.	1. Pages are not very intuitive, with poor graphics and integration. 2. No easy way to provide reports from third-party reporting tools.
JDA SCM (Blue Yonder)	Enterprises in retail, manufacturing, and logistics.	1. Provides accurate demand predictions and optimized planning. 2. Enhances real-time tracking for better decision-making. 3. Adapts to large, complex supply chains across industries.	1. Struggles with complex integrations and rigid data models. 2. Lacks robust integration and skilled implementation support.
Epicor SCM	Small to mid-sized manufacturers and distributors seeking centralized SCM.	1. Flexible deployment (cloud or on-premises ) 2. Easy integration with existing systems 3. Improves inventory visibility and control.	1. Limited scalability for very large enterprises 2. Interface feels outdated to some users.
Descartes SCM	Companies involved in global shipping, logistics, and transportation management.	1. Focused on transportation and logistics 2. Great for international shipping and compliance 3. Modular design for scalability.	1. Limited features for inventory management.
Infor CloudSuite SCM	Warehousing and distribution-focused businesses.	1. Easy to use with intuitive design and helpful documentation. 2. Great for demand planning and supply chain management.	1. Integration and setup can be challenging for larger organizations.
Kinaxis RapidResponse	Businesses requiring real-time supply chain insights.	1. Responsive vendor support for addressing weaknesses. 2. Works well with the right implementation partner.	1. Implementation can be complex and not as simple as promised. 2. Limited capabilities for advanced forecasting and modeling inventory policies.
SAP IBP	Enterprises managing global supply chains.	1. Easy to use system with excellent data output and smooth implementations. 2. Improves business operations with continuous software advancements and extensive capabilities.	1. Slow turnaround on upgrades and service requests.
Manhattan Associates SCM	Retailers and distributors managing extensive warehouse operations.	1. Continuously adds tools to improve efficiency. 2. Responsive and helpful customer service	1. Only one load can be duplicated at a time. 2. Too many tabs, making navigation cumbersome.
Microsoft Dynamics 365 SCM	Retailers with complex distribution networks.	1. Integrates ERP and SCM for streamlined operations. 2. Real-time data for quick decision-making. 3. Customizable to fit business needs.	1. Complex implementation process. 2. Licensing and cost management can be challenging.
Logility	Companies aiming to enhance inventory management and improve demand forecasting.	1. Easy to use, reducing the learning curve for new users. 2. Comprehensive system with integrated modules and enhanced planning features. 3. Knowledgeable, responsive team providing effective customer service and guidance.	1. Reporting and remanufacturing struggles with large SKU portfolios. 2. Setup is slow, with vague and unhelpful support responses.
Coupa	Businesses focused on supply chain modeling and optimization.	1. Focused on cost reduction and efficiency 2. Tailored for supply chain strategists	1. Lacks some operational features of other tools

GoComet

GoComet is a cloud-based supply chain management software that focuses on freight procurement and logistics optimization. It offers key tools such as real-time container tracking, freight quote comparisons, automated invoice reconciliation, and stakeholder management. The AI-powered platform’s standout features include reverse auctions for cost-effective freight procurement and advanced analytics that provide actionable insights to streamline operations.

Key Features:

• AI-Powered End-to-End Visibility: Provides comprehensive visibility across the supply chain using data science and advanced machine learning intelligence.
• Dynamic Predictive ETAs and Real-Time Updates: Offers real-time shipment status updates and dynamically predicts estimated times of arrival to improve planning and reduce uncertainties.
• CO2 Tracker for Carbon Emission Monitoring: Tracks and reports carbon emissions, enabling businesses to monitor and reduce their environmental impact.
• Invoice Audit and Overpayment Prevention: Includes an audit-ready invoice audit tool that identifies inconsistencies, prevents overpayment, and integrates seamlessly with internal finance systems for efficiency.

Limitations:

Ratings:

Testimonials: “With Gocomet, our profits has been increasing. We get the best rates from freight forwarders resulting in huge profits. We can also use the reports that can be downloaded from the platform to get the complete analysis of our savings, vendor’s participation and much more.”

Oracle SCM Cloud

Oracle SCM Cloud is a comprehensive solution for managing supply chain operations with end-to-end visibility. It streamlines key processes like supply chain planning, inventory management, and procurement, enabling businesses to operate efficiently.

The software integrates advanced analytics to support decision-making, giving users the ability to anticipate disruptions and adapt quickly. Its scalability makes it ideal for enterprises with complex supply chains looking for a robust and reliable platform.

Key Features:

• Predictive Analytics: Uses data to forecast potential risks and opportunities, helping businesses make informed decisions.
• Real-Time Shipment Tracking: Leverages machine learning to provide up-to-the-minute shipment status and reliable transit time predictions.
• Insight into Alternative Routes and Carriers: Helps businesses find and evaluate alternative shipping routes and carriers to optimize cost and delivery times.
• Global Shipment Optimization: Streamlines transportation planning and execution across global networks to ensure efficient and cost-effective shipments.

Limitations:

Ratings:

Testimonials: “Overall Experience has been satisfactory. However, we have witnessed challenges while developing cross-functional or integrated reports.” 

SAP Supply Chain Management (SCM)

SAP Supply Chain Management is a robust solution designed to optimize end-to-end supply chain processes. It offers tools for inventory management, demand planning, logistics tracking, and supplier collaboration. With real-time data integration, it ensures businesses maintain operational efficiency and adapt to changing demands. Its seamless connection with SAP ERP systems enhances visibility and streamlines workflows.

Key Features:

• Cloud-Based Supply Chain Integration: Connects and manages logistics activities through the cloud, offering full control and real-time visibility across the supply chain.
• Real-Time Decision-Making with AI: Utilizes live data and machine learning to improve inventory management, delivery planning, and forecasting accuracy.
• Sustainability Tracking and Optimization: Monitors and reduces emissions, waste, and environmental impact, enabling businesses to create eco-friendly supply chains.

Limitations:

• Implementation Time: The implementation process can be lengthy and complex, especially for businesses with limited IT infrastructure.
• Not User-Friendly: The platform’s interface is not intuitive, requiring users to invest time and effort to navigate effectively.

Ratings:

Testimonials: “Helps to create any dashboard required for the Business & for Proper Decision Making. Initial Setup of the data takes time.” 

Blue Yonder

Blue Yonder (formerly JDA) provides cutting-edge tools for demand forecasting and inventory optimization. Its AI-powered solutions help businesses adapt to market changes while minimizing waste. With industry-specific capabilities for retail and manufacturing, it offers tailored features that align with business goals. Blue Yonder excels in providing tools for end-to-end supply chain execution.

Key Features:

• AI-Powered Forecasting: Leverages artificial intelligence to accurately predict demand and optimize inventory planning, helping businesses prepare for future needs.
• Inventory and Warehouse Management: Improves visibility and control over inventory levels and warehouse operations, ensuring efficient stock management and order fulfillment.
• Real-Time Supply Chain Collaboration: Enables teams to collaborate instantly on projects, enhancing communication and coordination across the supply chain.
• Retail-Specific Solutions: Provides specialized tools designed to optimize supply chain operations for the retail and consumer goods industries, improving efficiency and responsiveness.s sectors.

Limitations:

• Weak Scenario Capabilities and Rigid Data Model: The platform struggles with complex integrations and process flows due to its limited scenario capabilities and inflexible data model.
• Limited End-to-End Integration and Support: There is a lack of robust integration across key process areas, and the availability of skilled implementation resources is currently insufficient.

Ratings:

Testimonials: “It is easy to integrate with the Blue Yonder WMS module, however, for other systems you will need to develop integration.”

Epicor SCM

Epicor SCM helps businesses manage their supply chains with tools for demand forecasting, procurement, and shipping logistics. The software offers both cloud-based and on-premises options, catering to diverse operational needs. Its centralized platform improves visibility and control over essential processes, helping businesses make data-driven decisions. Epicor SCM is well-suited for small to medium-sized manufacturers and distributors looking for flexible deployment options.

Key Features:

• Adaptability to Market Changes: Ensures your organization can quickly adapt to disruptions and changing market conditions, minimizing potential downtime​.
• Real-Time Insights: Provides essential, real-time visibility throughout the entire order-to-cash value stream, helping you stay informed and agile​.
• Collaboration Across the Ecosystem: Fosters seamless collaboration between all stakeholders in the supply chain, including manufacturers, suppliers, and trading partners​.
• Integrated Supply Chain Management: Connects various supply chain functions (make, move, sell) for streamlined operations and better decision-making​

Limitations:

Ratings:

Testimonials: “the software is improving every year. just the team is a lil slow on moving forward with the update software.”

Descartes SCM

Descartes SCM specializes in logistics and fleet management, providing tools for transportation tracking, customs compliance, and routing optimization. Its modular design allows businesses to choose features specific to their needs, ensuring cost-effectiveness. The platform’s real-time capabilities are particularly beneficial for global supply chains that rely on accurate data for decision-making. Descartes SCM is a go-to solution for logistics-heavy industries aiming to optimize fleet operations.

Key Features:

• Order Automation: Automatically processes orders, reducing manual errors and speeding up order entry and fulfillment.
• Real-Time Shipment Tracking: Track the status of your shipments in real-time, providing instant updates and improving supply chain visibility.
• Carrier Management: Centralize all carrier details, rates, and performance metrics in one place to streamline carrier selection and negotiation.
• Data Consolidation for Analysis: Collect and consolidate lane rates and shipment data for quick access and easy analysis to optimize decision-making and improve efficiency.

Limitations:

Ratings:

Testimonials: “Having everything right in front of me and making it hard to make any mistakes. Sometimes I feel like there are too many tabs that need to be more condensed.” 

Infor CloudSuite SCM

Infor CloudSuite SCM focuses on warehouse and transportation management, offering tools to streamline operations and enhance productivity. Its AI-powered analytics identify bottlenecks and provide actionable recommendations for improvement. The software integrates seamlessly with Infor’s suite of products, making it a strong choice for businesses already using its ecosystem. Infor CloudSuite SCM is best for companies with a heavy focus on warehouse and distribution activities.

Key Features:

• Predictive Analytics for Better Decision-Making: Leverages data-driven insights and advanced analytics to predict future trends and optimize supply chain decisions.
• Enhanced Collaboration: Improves communication between suppliers, customers, and partners, ensuring smoother workflows and faster decision-making.
• Integrated Supplier and Inventory Management: Manages supplier relationships and tracks inventory levels with integrated tools that ensure accuracy and efficiency.
• Automated Supply Chain Processes: Reduces manual tasks by automating key supply chain operations, boosting efficiency and minimizing errors.

Limitations:

• Longer Implementation Time: Due to its enterprise-grade features, the software can take time to implement, which might cause delays in realizing its benefits.
• Cost and Complexity: Infor CloudSuite is designed for large enterprises, and its pricing and complexity may not make it a good fit for small or mid-sized businesses.

Ratings:

Testimonials: “CloudSuite has a lot of promise but the challenges in implementation, delivery and integration hold it back a bit. No doubt, it is easy to use for a beginner but at the same time it was super difficult to deploy and launch it for the first time within our organization.“

Kinaxis Maestro

Kinaxis Maestro provides real-time supply chain monitoring and risk management tools to help businesses stay agile. It consolidates data from multiple systems, offering a unified platform for better collaboration and decision-making. The software is designed to respond quickly to disruptions, reducing downtime and mitigating risks. Kinaxis is ideal for organizations needing instant insights to adapt to volatile supply chain scenarios.

Key Features:

• Real-Time Supply Chain Monitoring: Provides live tracking of supply chain performance, helping businesses quickly identify issues and optimize operations as they happen.
• Risk Management: Detects potential risks and disruptions in the supply chain, allowing businesses to take proactive measures to prevent delays or losses.
• Data Integration: Collects and merges data from various systems and sources, offering a single, clear view of the entire supply chain for improved decision-making.
• Scenario Planning: Enables businesses to model and test different supply chain scenarios, helping them make more informed and strategic decisions based on potential outcomes.

Limitations:

• Heavy Dependence on Data Quality: Kinaxis requires high-quality, up-to-date data to function properly. If data is inaccurate or inconsistent, it can hinder its effectiveness.

Ratings:

Testimonials: “System had limted capabilities for advanced statistical forecasting and was uable to model customer inventory policies to help with predicting shipments.
 

Manhattan Associates SCM

Manhattan Associates SCM offers omnichannel solutions for inventory, transportation, and demand management. It caters to retailers and distributors looking to integrate physical and online operations seamlessly. The platform uses advanced algorithms to optimize delivery routes and ensure timely order fulfillment. Manhattan Associates SCM is an excellent choice for businesses focusing on omnichannel retail and complex distribution networks.

Key Features:

• Omnichannel Supply Chain Management: Optimizes both physical and online operations for seamless integration.
• Demand and Inventory Management: Improves order fulfillment through better inventory management.
• Transportation Optimization: Uses algorithms to find the best routes and reduce shipping costs.
• Real-Time Data Integration: Offers real-time data for better operational efficiency and decision-making.

Limitations:

• Implementation Complexity: Setting up Manhattan Associates SCM can be complex, requiring significant time and resources to integrate with existing systems.
• Limited for Smaller Enterprises: The software’s features and pricing are more tailored to larger companies, making it less suitable for smaller businesses or those with simpler supply chain needs.

Ratings:

Testimonials: “Manhattan’s tools allowed us to create an efficient distribution network that reduced costs.” 

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management

Microsoft Dynamics 365 SCM integrates supply chain tools with ERP capabilities for a unified business solution. It simplifies operations like inventory management, warehouse tracking, and supplier collaboration. Businesses using other Microsoft products benefit from its seamless integration, ensuring smooth workflows. Dynamics 365 SCM is suitable for mid-to-large-sized businesses seeking an all-in-one platform.

Key Features:

• User-Friendly Interface: Designed to be intuitive, enabling employees to quickly learn and navigate the system, improving overall efficiency and reducing training time.
• Risk Mitigation through Collaboration: Supports seamless communication and coordination between supply chain teams, suppliers, and customers to identify and manage risks, ensuring smoother workflows and quicker problem resolution.
• Sustainability Integration: Helps reduce environmental impact by collaborating with the Sustainability Manager to track and minimize emissions throughout the entire product lifecycle, from design to disposal.
• Enhanced Security and Reliability: Ensures data protection with advanced cybersecurity measures and 99.9% system uptime, offering reliable access and safeguarding sensitive information from potential threats.

Limitations:

• Operational and Monitoring Gaps: Despite being a robust solution, D365 lacks some operational and monitoring features compared to other vendors, making it less comprehensive for specific operational needs in some industries.
• Performance with Large Data Sets: A few users noted that the system can struggle when handling large data sizes, requiring optimizations or adjustments to maintain efficiency.

Ratings: 

Testimonials: “It has many features which make compatible for large customers with unique requirements. But still somewhat it lacks in terms of operation and monitoring as compared to other vendors.” 

Logility Supply Chain Platform

Logility offers a powerful cloud-based platform to manage supply chain operations efficiently. It enables businesses to streamline planning, optimize inventory, and improve demand forecasting using advanced analytics and automation tools. The software focuses on enhancing collaboration across supply chain partners, ensuring smooth communication and improved responsiveness to market changes. With sustainability tools built-in, Logility helps organizations meet environmental goals while reducing costs.

Key Features:

• Automated Order Fulfillment: Enables real-time inventory visibility and precise delivery scheduling using advanced analytics, ensuring quick and accurate responses to customer orders​.
• End-to-End Traceability: Provides complete supply chain documentation, including ethical sourcing and regulatory compliance, with anomaly detection and detailed transaction records for transparency​.
• Inventory Optimization: Uses predictive analytics to balance inventory levels, reducing excess stock and improving service efficiency while maintaining cost-effectiveness​.
• Unified Supply Chain Visibility: Offers a global view of operations by integrating data from various systems, enabling proactive decision-making and adaptability to market changes​.

Limitations:

• Limited Customization for Reporting and Alerts: The platform lacks flexibility in tailoring reports, alerts, and analytics pages to meet specific organizational needs, requiring reliance on support for certain adjustments.
• Delayed Ticket Resolutions and System Responsiveness: Users experience slow resolution of support tickets and inefficiencies such as lag when switching between screens, impacting overall productivity.

Ratings:

Testimonials: “Very solid experience using Logility. We’re using the software to Forecast our sales and replenishment. Product can run slowly at times and hard to understand some of the commands, but the interface is easy to see.”

Coupa

Coupa by Llamasoft specializes in supply chain modeling and optimization, helping businesses improve cost efficiency. It provides advanced analytics to simulate scenarios and plan effective strategies. The software’s focus is on long-term supply chain design rather than daily operations, making it a unique offering. Llamasoft is best suited for organizations prioritizing strategic supply chain planning and cost reduction.

Key Features:

• AI-Driven Cost Optimization: Utilizes AI and machine learning to identify cost-saving opportunities across supply chains.
• Advanced Analytics and Digital Twin Technology: Offers digital twin technology and advanced analytics to spot challenges and optimize strategies.
• Scenario Optimization: Helps users evaluate and optimize scenarios for cost, service, and carbon efficiency.
• Twin Map Visualization: Features a twin map tool to compare current and proposed supply chain networks, enabling users to visualize and analyze different scenarios side by side.

Limitations:

• Lack of Advanced Features: While the platform offers good functionality, users feel that it lacks certain advanced features and enhancements, which limits its effectiveness in some areas.
• Decline in Customer Support: After being acquired by Coupa, some users have reported a decline in the quality of customer support, impacting their overall experience.

Ratings:

Testimonials: “SI really like utilizing the Analytics sectoin of Coupa. It took awhile to get the hang of, but there is an abundance of categories, filters, etc. to choose from, in order to streamline it for my organization. I’m also able to pull raw data from variants I have built in Requests, Invoices, Suppliers, etc. in order to ensure that my tiles and dashboards have been set up correctly. I do not feel like there is enough support related to catalogs and cXML invoicing. I would like for there to be a better way to have it made public which suppliers offer catalogs (not just the Coupa Advantage suppliers).” 

How to Choose the Right SCM Software for Your Business

Choosing the right software comes down to understanding your unique needs. Here’s a simple process to help you make the best decision:

1. Assess Your Current Challenges: What are the main pain points in your supply chain? Is it inventory management, shipping, or something else?
2. Understand Your Budget: Cloud-based SCM software can be an investment. Make sure the pricing model aligns with your business’s financial capabilities.
3. Consider Your Industry: Some software solutions work better for certain industries. If you’re in retail, look for software that excels in demand planning and order management.
4. Evaluate Ease of Use: Make sure the software is intuitive. The last thing you need is a steep learning curve.

Final Word

Take the time to explore your options and test different platforms. Look for software that is scalable, easy to integrate, and offers real-time data to help you make decisions. Whether you’re a small business or a large enterprise, cloud-based SCM software can help you streamline operations, reduce costs, and gain a competitive advantage.

FAQs

What is cloud-based SCM software?

Cloud-based SCM software lets you manage your supply chain through the internet. It offers real-time data, scalability, and accessibility from anywhere.

Which cloud-based SCM software is best for small businesses?

GoComet is an affordable, easy-to-use option ideal for small businesses that want to streamline freight management and logistics.

Can cloud-based SCM software improve supply chain visibility?

Yes, cloud-based software offers real-time tracking and analytics, providing full visibility into your supply chain operations to optimize their supply chain efficiencies cost-effectively.

Feel free to fix a free walkthrough demo of how GoComet’s solution can help you drive double-digit cost savings in your supply chain while eliminating all the pain points you may currently face due to the lack of automation.