ProfitKey

Benefits:

Scheduling system is very robust. Cost tracking is very detailed. Labor tracking is easy using the barcode feature Quoting is very simple The support group does a good job responding to questions.

Drawbacks:

Need more cost information on the Dashboard feature

In sum:

ProfitKey is a very good fit for a job shop type business. We get excellence scheduling information, that helps drive our business. The efficiency information helps us manage the output of our employees and gives them feedback on their performance. Excellent system to manage your business.

Benefits:

The flexibility it gives the user to incorporate the software in with existing critical systems. It is also complex enough to cover almost any type of system but simple enough that the learning curve is very reasonable.

Drawbacks:

The import export method is antiquated. Granted the software is not geared to larger volume order companies and is great for small volume complex orders. But for large volume simple orders where manual entry is not a viable option, the flat file import process is clumsy. Profit Key has been very helpful and agreeable in working with us on a couple of customs programs to offset some of these difficulties until a new interface can be deployed.

In sum:

The biggest benefit this software give us is the control of product flow. We handle thousands of custom parts through hundreds of work centers and Profit Key gives us the ability to schedule the product, knowledge of performance, and the ability to change routings or schedules as needed.

Benefits:

The support from the ProfitKey personnel has been timely and complete. Our suggestions are reviewed, and if supported by the user base, they are incorporated into the product in a timely manner.

Drawbacks:

Ownership has changed a few times in recent years, slowing the positive progress and momentum in enhancing the product.

Benefits:

This ERP system is deeply integrated with a complete range of functional modules that all work in concert. Our company uses all of the core modules and the product is deeply integrated into every aspect of our operations. ProfitKey is a great company to work with and they are very responsive to our needs. There technical support team is first rate.

Drawbacks:

For a long time I considered the user interface to be clunky but this has improved dramatically with the releases of the past few years. Still, they system could use some interface designs that tie the data from various modules in one seamless view.

Benefits:

It does what it was designed to do, for the most part it is a very stable platform, can be customized to any ones needs, and runs pretty fast

Drawbacks:

very difficult to set up and install, requires a lot of training and knowledge and this is the main factor as to why we don't utilize it to its full potential

Benefits:

Clear user interface Many options Customizable documents

Drawbacks:

Some options buried a bit

In sum:

This is a simple program to learn the basics of with a multitude of options. The user interface is very straight forward. It is mostly all encompassing as far as ERP systems go. The options are plentiful, but sometimes lengthy to find. Extra seats are economical. A good tool for a small business trying to track quote to cash.

Benefits:

The functionality for customer management, purchasing, inventory control, BOMs, etc. It makes our work flow more efficient and effective.

Drawbacks:

The lack of functionality in scheduling--specifically with materials being accounted for at the start of a work center operation.

In sum:

The efficiency gained when a job moves through the company.

Benefits:

Works great for a company that has a product line and job shop.

Drawbacks:

some forms are lengthy when they could be on just one page.

In sum:

It works well with master and non master scheduled items thru bill of material. Gives accurate due dates of components. Profit Key handles everything from the time an order is placed, made, shipped, invoiced and paid. No need for other software including time keeping and costing.

Benefits:

Profit Key has great training tools such as webex topic sessions, a ticket system supported by engineers who intimately know the product and can help users with their particular issues, and Application Engineers who can come to your facility and train your users one on one. The Application Engineers develop relationships with the users and knowledge of your company so they know the best way to help you use the product.

Drawbacks:

Profit Key is always on the cutting edge of new development and modules to help companies move forward more efficiently. I'd love to see them have dedicated engineers for enhancements/developments of existing modules.

Benefits:

Profit key integrates all company functions very well.

Drawbacks:

The reports that come directly from PROFIT KEY do not always include all of the information you need. Crystal reports seem to be the fallback for this issue. If you cannot write Crystal reports you must pay a significant amount to have them done for you.

In sum:

Overall my experience with the system has been positive. The total business integration is the strongest aspect of the system. I have used the system for 22 years between 2 different companies.