20 Operations Management Systems for Cutting-Edge Workflow Optimization

An operations management system is essential for any business looking to streamline its operations.

There are lots of tools out there dedicated to helping organizations do just that, plus many more that can be used for workflow management while also aiding in other aspects of business.

It’s up to each company’s leadership to decide which direction to go in that regard, but to help make deciding easier, we’ve put together a list of the top operations management systems out there.

In this article, we’ll cover:

• Top 20 operations management systems
• Definition of operations management system
• Importance of operations management systems
• Components of an operations management system
• Get started for free

Process Street

Process Street is a powerful business process management platform that simplifies workflow automation. It enables organizations to create, track, and optimize recurring processes through intuitive checklists. With features like conditional logic and AI-generated workflows, Process Street enhances efficiency, accountability, and collaboration, making it an invaluable tool for businesses striving for operational excellence.

Key features:

• Checklist automation: Create and automate dynamic checklists for recurring processes.
• Conditional logic: Customize workflows with conditional logic based on responses.
• Custom workflows: Facilitate team collaboration on tasks and processes.
• Integration capabilities: Seamlessly integrate with tons of apps and tools.
• Task assignment: Assign and track responsibilities within processes.
• Data collection: Gather and store data through forms within checklists.
• Reporting and analytics: Generate insights with analytics on process performance.
• Version control: Maintain and track versions of checklists for auditing.
• API access: Connect with other applications through APIs.
• Document storage: Attach and manage documents relevant to processes.

Pros:

• Intuitive interface makes it user-friendly.
• Offers secure data handling and storage.
• It has a mobile application.
• Custom automated workflows can be made with AI.
• It has lots of premade workflow templates to choose from.
• Great for employee onboarding.
• It makes communication between team members super simple.
• It has excellent analytics features.

Cons:

• There is no free plan.

Netsuite

NetSuite ERP is a comprehensive cloud-based enterprise resource planning system. Renowned for its integrated functionalities, it manages core business operations like financials, inventory, procurement, and more. With scalability and customization, NetSuite ERP empowers businesses to streamline processes, optimize operations, and drive growth in a unified platform.

Key features:

• E-commerce: Enables integrated online commerce functionalities.
• Supply chain management: Enhances visibility and efficiency in the supply chain.
• Financial management: Streamlines accounting processes, billing, and revenue recognition.
• Order management: Automates order-to-cash and procurement processes.
• Inventory management: Optimizes inventory levels and supply chain operations.

Pros:

• Offers a wide range of integrated business functionalities.
• Supports global operations with multi-language and multi-currency features.
• Scales to accommodate business growth and changing needs.
• Offers robust support services and training resources.

Cons:

• There is no pricing information available on the website.
• Initial setup and implementation can be time-consuming and complex.

Scoro

Scoro stands as a comprehensive business management solution, merging project and financial management with CRM and billing. It unifies processes, providing a centralized platform for teams. With its customizable dashboards and automation, Scoro streamlines workflows, empowering businesses to drive productivity and make informed decisions for sustained growth and success.

Key features:

• Financial management: Manages invoices, budgets, and expenses.
• CRM integration: Manages customer relationships and interactions.
• Billing and invoicing: Generates invoices and tracks payments.
• Resource planning: Allocates and manages resources for projects.

Pros:

• Integrates with email for communication and updates.
• Tracks and manages inventory levels.
• Sets and tracks organizational or project goals.

Cons:

• Not suitable for freelancers or large enterprises.

Odoo

Odoo streamlines operations with real-time tracking, efficient order fulfillment, and seamless warehouse management. With features like barcode scanning, automated reordering, and flexible reporting, it optimizes inventory control. Its user-friendly interface and integration capabilities empower businesses with comprehensive control and visibility over stock.

Key features:

• Multiple locations: Manages inventory across multiple warehouses or locations.
• Automated reordering: Sets automatic triggers for replenishing stock.
• Batch and serial number tracking: Tracks items using batch or serial numbers.
• Inventory valuation: Calculates inventory value using different costing methods.
• FIFO and LIFO: Supports First-In, First-Out, and Last-In, First-Out methods.

Pros:

• Facilitates easy movement of inventory between locations.
• Seamlessly integrates with other Odoo modules and third-party applications.
• Tracks inventory levels and locations in real-time.
• Efficient inventory management through barcode scanning.

Cons:

• Can be expensive, especially when adding numerous modules or users.
• Highly customized needs might require additional development.

Zoho Creator

Zoho Creator is a robust no-code platform allowing users to build tailored applications to streamline business processes. It fosters seamless automation and data management. This versatile tool caters to diverse needs, offering dynamic solutions for efficient workflow orchestration across industries.

Key features:

• Calendar and scheduler: Plan and organize tasks and events.
• Custom reports: Generate tailored reports as needed.
• Geolocation and maps: Integrate maps and location-based features.
• App building: No-code platform to create custom applications.

Pros:

• Automates and streamlines business processes.
• Centralizes and manages data efficiently.
• Tracks activities for compliance and analysis.

Cons:

• The features when working offline are very limited.

ProofHub

ProofHub serves as an all-in-one project management and collaboration tool, streamlining team communication and task organization. Known for its user-friendly interface, it centralizes tasks, discussions, files, and milestones, offering a comprehensive platform to manage projects efficiently while fostering seamless collaboration across teams and projects.

Key features:

• Task management: Create, assign, and organize tasks efficiently.
• Task dependencies: Manage task sequences and dependencies.
• Kanban boards: Visualize and manage tasks using Kanban boards.
• Gantt charts: Plan and track project timelines and dependencies.
• File sharing: Share and collaborate on files within projects.

Pros:

• Sets and tracks project milestones and goals.
• Centralizes and organizes project documents.
• Tracks and manages team members’ time off.
• Users can apply custom branding within the platform.

Cons:

• It has very limited integrations.
• The training materials are a bit lacking.

Conntecteam

Connecteam is an all-in-one employee management and communication platform designed for non-desk employees. It offers features for time tracking, task management, internal communication, and training. Connecteam enables businesses to improve productivity, engagement, and compliance by centralizing workforce management and communication, making it a valuable tool for mobile and remote workforces.

Key features:

• Benefits management: Tracks and manages employee benefits.
• Group scheduling: Schedules calls and shifts for groups of employees.
• Job posting and tracking: Tracks job posts and applicants.
• Learning and development management: Has places to store and share educational materials for employees.

Pros:

• Improves internal communication.
• Helps with payroll and timesheets.
• Manages both employee onboarding and training.

Cons:

• It doesn’t handle applicant tracking.

Hubspot Operations Hub

HubSpot Operations Hub is a comprehensive platform designed to enhance business operations and customer management. It streamlines data integration, automates tasks, and centralizes customer information, fostering efficient workflows. With robust features for automation, analytics, and connectivity, Operations Hub empowers businesses to optimize processes and deliver exceptional customer experiences.

Key features:

• Automation workflows: Designing and implementing automated workflows for various processes.
• Contact management: Centralizing and organizing customer information.
• HubSpot CRM integration: Connecting with HubSpot CRM for enhanced customer relationship management.
• Task automation: Automating routine operational tasks for efficiency.
• Data cleansing tools: Maintaining data accuracy through cleaning and deduplication.

Pros:

• Creates and manages custom objects to fit specific needs.
• Tracks changes and activities for compliance and transparency.
• Utilizes machine learning for lead scoring and prioritization.
• Automates email campaigns and communications.

Cons:

• There is no dashboard for centralized data.
• The cost structure changes somewhat frequently.

SafetyCulture

SafetyCulture modernizes safety and quality inspections with its intuitive mobile platform. It empowers teams to conduct efficient audits, streamline reporting, and ensure compliance across industries. By facilitating real-time data collection and analysis, SafetyCulture promotes proactive risk management, driving safer workplaces and operational excellence.

Key features:

• Mobile inspections: Conduct inspections using mobile devices, facilitating on-site data collection.
• Media capture: Capture and attach images, annotations, or notes to inspection reports.
• Analytics and trends: Analyze inspection data to identify trends and areas for improvement.
• Actionable insights: Gain actionable insights from data to enhance safety and quality practices.
• Compliance monitoring: Ensure adherence to regulatory standards and compliance requirements.

Pros:

• Integrates with other systems for streamlined data flow and reporting.
• Facilitates team collaboration and communication for efficient inspections and resolutions.
• Users can build customizable checklists tailored to specific inspection needs.

Cons:

• Users have difficulty working with software updates.

ClickUp

ClickUp is a robust project management platform acclaimed for its versatility and customization. It streamlines workflows and fosters collaboration across teams. Known for its adaptability to various work styles, ClickUp offers a comprehensive solution for task management and team communication, enhancing productivity and project organization.

Key features:

• Multiple views: Kanban boards, lists, calendars, and Gantt charts for varied project perspectives.
• Time tracking: Monitor time spent on tasks and projects.
• Team collaboration: Comments, mentions, and real-time collaboration on tasks.
• Goals and OKRs: Set and track objectives and key results.
• Document management: File attachments, document editing, and version control.

Pros:

• Offers a wide range of features catering to diverse project management needs.
• Allows for the creation of automated workflows, enhancing efficiency.
• Offers a free plan ideal freelancers and small businesses.

Cons:

• Users have reported occasional lags or performance issues, especially with large data sets.

Pipefy

Pipefy excels as a process mapping tool by offering customizable workflows within a visual interface. It enables mapping complex processes, automating tasks, and managing workflows efficiently. With its drag-and-drop system, forms, and automation, teams can visually map, optimize, and streamline their processes for improved productivity and clarity.

Key features:

• Customizable workflows: Tailor processes to specific needs.
• Visual process mapping: Drag-and-drop interface for mapping workflows.
• Automation: Automate tasks and workflows.
• Forms and fields: Create customizable forms and fields.
• Task management: Track and manage tasks within processes.

Pros:

• Offers pre-built templates for various workflows.
• Monitors and manages task deadlines.
• Allows users to attach and manage files within processes.

Cons:

• The data analysis is poor.
• It’s not possible to create workflow approval processes.

Zapier

Zapier is an automation tool that streamlines workflows and integrations for sales teams. It automates repetitive tasks across various apps, enhancing efficiency. Zapier empowers sales automation by enabling teams to focus on core tasks for increased productivity.

Key features:

• Integration hub: Connects diverse apps to streamline data flow and processes.
• Trigger-action system: Sets triggers to initiate actions between connected apps.
• Multi-step Zaps: Executes multiple actions across various apps in a sequence.
• Conditional logic: Sets conditions to trigger specific actions based on criteria.
• Scheduled tasks: Automates tasks based on predefined schedules.

Pros:

• Automates repetitive tasks between different apps without coding.
• Connects with CRM systems and sales tools for sales process automation.
• Allows creating custom Zaps tailored to specific needs.
• Provides insights into Zap performance and execution.

Cons:

• It takes time to learn how to use Zaps effectively.
• Users have reported poor customer support.

Fellow

Fellow is an intuitive collaboration and meeting management platform, transforming the way teams work together. It enhances productivity with features like agenda creation, real-time note-taking, and action item tracking. Fellow’s user-friendly interface and integrations empower teams to collaborate effectively, fostering a more efficient and streamlined work environment.

Key features:

• Agenda creation: Building structured agendas for meetings.
• Real-time note-taking: Collaborative note-taking during meetings.
• Action item tracking: Monitoring and assigning tasks directly within the app.
• Team collaboration: Enhancing communication and collaboration.
• Goal setting: Setting and tracking team and individual goals.

Pros:

• Users can collaboratively build and edit meeting agendas.
• Identifies and prioritizes important discussion points.
• Syncs with calendars for scheduling and reminders.
• Manages access levels and permissions.

Cons:

• It doesn’t integrate with Apple Reminders.
• The AI feature can’t recognize handwritten notes.

Atlassian

Atlassian is a powerhouse for operations management, offering tools like Jira and Confluence. Jira facilitates agile project management, issue tracking, and workflow customization. Confluence enables collaborative documentation, knowledge sharing, and project planning. These robust solutions empower teams to streamline operations, enhance collaboration, and achieve operational excellence.

Key features:

• Agile project management: Facilitating agile workflows and sprint planning in Jira.
• Issue tracking: Comprehensive tracking and management of tasks, issues, and tickets.
• Custom workflows: Tailoring workflows to match specific operational processes.
• Kanban boards: Visualizing work and managing tasks in a Kanban-style board.
• Automation rules: Automating repetitive tasks and processes.

Pros:

• Strategizes and plans project roadmaps.
• Offers pre-designed templates for standardized documentation.
• Creates a centralized repository for organizational knowledge.
• Generates reports for performance analysis.

Cons:

• It’s products are pricey.
• Users have reported poor customer support.

Slack

Slack stands as a versatile collaboration platform, streamlining communication among teams with channels, direct messaging, and file sharing. Known for its user-friendly interface and integrations, Slack fosters efficient teamwork, offering a centralized hub for discussions, project management, and seamless collaboration across diverse work environments.

Key features:

• Channels: Organizes communication into channels based on topics, teams, or projects.
• Direct messaging: Allows one-on-one or group messaging for quick and private conversations.
• File sharing: Facilitates sharing files, documents, images, and more.
• Integrations: Integrates with various apps and tools for enhanced functionality.
• Searchable history: Provides a searchable archive of conversations and shared files.

Pros:

• Supports automation through bots and apps for streamlined workflows.
• Allows customization with themes, emojis, and personalized notifications.
• Provides tools like polls, reminders, and shared to-do lists for efficient teamwork.
• Offers various security measures like data encryption and two-factor authentication.

Cons:

• The free plan only stores messages for 30 days.
• Channels can multiply rapidly, requiring active management to avoid confusion or redundant channels.

Chili Piper

Chili Piper is a dynamic scheduling and routing platform, streamlining customer bookings for sales and customer success teams. Renowned for its intuitive interface and automation, it prioritizes efficient appointment scheduling and routing. By focusing on seamless interactions, Chili Piper enhances engagement, fostering smoother customer experiences and conversions.

Key features:

• Meeting scheduler: Enables prospects to book meetings instantly based on team availability.
• Round Robin Routing: Distributes leads evenly among sales reps for fair allocation.
• Instant booker: Facilitates real-time scheduling without back-and-forth emails.
• Calendar integration: Syncs with calendars for accurate availability.
• Customizable booking pages: Tailors booking pages to match brand aesthetics.

Pros:

• Sends reminders to reduce no-shows and increase attendance.
• Displays team availability for efficient scheduling.
• Sets rules for lead routing based on criteria like region or expertise.
• Provides insights into scheduling metrics and team performance.

Cons:

• Users have reported somewhat frequent bugs.
• It can be over-complicated to use for some users.

Asana

Asana is a versatile project management software designed to streamline team workflows. It enables users to organize tasks, set priorities, and track project progress in real-time. Asana empowers teams to enhance productivity and achieve their goals efficiently.

Key features:

• Task management: Organize tasks and projects efficiently.
• Project timelines: Visualize project timelines and milestones.
• Due dates and priorities: Set deadlines and prioritize tasks.
• Attachments and comments: Share files and communicate within tasks.
• Customizable workspaces: Tailor workspaces to fit team needs.

Pros:

• Enables the establishment of task dependencies for better planning.
• Frequently introduces new features and improvements.
• Provides a functional free plan for smaller teams.
• Users can monitor and manage multiple projects in one view.

Cons:

• More advanced features are available in premium plans, which may be costly.
• Might feel too robust for straightforward task management.

Next Matter

Next Matter simplifies workflow management and offers adaptable solutions for seamless task orchestration. It streamlines operations by fostering collaboration and efficiency. Next Matter’s focus on flexibility drives productivity, enabling scalable, agile business processes.

Key features:

• Approval workflows: Configures customizable approval processes.
• Error handling: Manages and resolves errors within workflows.
• Visual workflow builder: Creates workflows via a visual interface.
• Task management: Assigns, tracks, and manages tasks efficiently.
• Template library: Offers pre-built templates for rapid workflow setup.

Pros:

• Tailors workflows to specific business needs.
• Automates repetitive tasks and processes.
• Stores and organizes documents within workflows.
• Provides insights into workflow performance.

Cons:

• Users have reported dissatisfaction with the customized reports.

Intercom

Intercom is a customer communication platform designed to enhance business interactions. Recognized for its versatility, Intercom consolidates messaging, support, and engagement tools into a unified solution. With a focus on personalized customer experiences, businesses can build meaningful connections and drive customer satisfaction through seamless and efficient communication across various channels.

Key features:

• Live chat: Enables real-time communication between businesses and customers.
• In-app messaging: Facilitates personalized messaging within web and mobile apps.
• Email marketing: Manages and automates email campaigns for customer engagement.
• Customer segmentation: Divides customers into segments for targeted communication.
• Product tours: Guides users through product features and functionalities.

Pros:

• Provides a self-service repository for customer information.
• Offers a centralized hub for customer support resources.
• Manages and tracks customer support queries through a centralized system.
• Consolidates various communication channels in one platform.

Cons:

• Some users may find limitations in the ticketing system features.
• Certain advanced features are available only in higher pricing tiers.

Salesforce

Salesforce is a leading CRM platform that gives businesses cloud-based solutions for sales, marketing, and service. Renowned for its scalability and customization, Salesforce streamlines customer interactions, data management, and automation. It revolutionizes business processes, fostering robust customer relationships and driving organizational growth through innovative cloud technology.

Key features:

• Sales Cloud: CRM tools for sales automation and lead management.
• Service Cloud: Customer service and support functionalities.
• Commerce Cloud: E-commerce and customer experience management.
• Community Cloud: Engages customers and partners with communities.
• Analytics Cloud: Data analysis and visualization tools.

Pros:

• Offers a wide range of CRM solutions for diverse business needs.
• Scales with business growth and requirements effectively.
• Has robust security measures and data protection features.
• Extensive AppExchange for additional functionalities.

Cons:

• Requires dedicated resources for setup and maintenance.
• Mastery of advanced features might take time and training.

Definition of operations management system

Operations management system is a set of processes and tools used by organizations to manage and streamline their operations. It involves designing, planning, and controlling the production processes, as well as the delivery of goods and services. The goal of an operations management system is to ensure that the organization’s resources are used efficiently to meet the needs of customers and maximize profitability.

One key aspect of an operations management system is the use of technology to automate and optimize processes. This can involve the implementation of software systems to track inventory, manage production schedules, and monitor quality control. By utilizing technology, organizations can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize the risk of errors.

Another important component of operations management system is the use of data and analytics to make informed decisions. By collecting and analyzing data on key performance indicators, organizations can identify areas for improvement and make strategic decisions to drive performance and profitability.

In addition, an operations management system also involves the management of people and resources. This includes creating and implementing processes for recruiting, training, and retaining employees, as well as managing equipment and facilities to ensure optimal productivity.

Importance of operations management system

Operations management is a crucial aspect of any organization, as it plays a pivotal role in ensuring the efficient and effective use of resources in order to achieve the organization’s goals and maintain a competitive advantage. An operations management system is essential for coordinating and controlling the various activities and processes within an organization, and it is important for several reasons.

First and foremost, an operations management system helps streamline the production and allocation of resources, which ultimately leads to cost savings and improved productivity. By effectively managing the flow of materials, labor, and equipment, organizations can minimize waste and optimize their operational processes, thus increasing their overall efficiency and profitability by keeping up with customer demand.

Furthermore, an operations management system also aids in enhancing the quality of products and services. By implementing systematic and standardized processes, operations managers can ensure consistency and precision in their outputs. This quality assurance not only leads to improved customer satisfaction but also helps in maintaining a competitive edge in the market.

Effective operations management is essential for ensuring compliance with regulations and standards. Many industries are subject to strict guidelines and safety measures, and an efficient operations management system helps in ensuring that the organization adheres to these requirements. This not only mitigates the risk of legal issues but also helps in building a positive reputation for the organization.

Moreover, an operations management system also plays a crucial role in strategic decision-making. By providing real-time data and insights into the organization’s operational performance, it enables management to make informed decisions and identify areas for improvement. This ultimately contributes to the organization’s long-term success and sustainability.

Components of an operations management system

The components of an operations management system include:

Inventory management

This component focuses on the efficient tracking and control of inventory levels to ensure that production and supply chain operations run smoothly.

Production planning

This involves the scheduling and coordination of production activities, such as setting production targets, optimizing resource allocation, and monitoring production progress.

Quality control

This component is responsible for ensuring that products or services meet predefined quality standards through the implementation of quality control processes and methodologies.

Supply chain management

This involves the coordination of suppliers, manufacturers, and distributors to ensure the efficient flow of raw materials, components, and finished products throughout the supply chain.

Maintenance and repair

This component focuses on the maintenance and repair of equipment and machinery to minimize downtime and ensure the smooth operation of production processes.

Performance monitoring

This involves the collection and analysis of data to evaluate the performance of operational processes and identify areas for improvement.

Get started for free

All of the tools listed above are perfect for all manner of operations management, and many of them offer free trials or demos, so take advantage of them! Don’t be afraid to test a few out to find the perfect one for your current business processes.