Abas ERP operates as a specialized enterprise resource planning software provider targeting mid-sized manufacturing companies worldwide. Founded in 1980 and headquartered in Karlsruhe, Germany, the company develops ERP solutions specifically designed for manufacturers operating in make-to-order, engineer-to-order, and assemble-to-order environments. The software serves over 4,000 customers across 30 countries, with approximately 120,000 active users managing their business processes through the platform.

The core functionality spans multiple business departments including purchasing, sales, production planning, warehouse management, service operations, and financial accounting. Each module integrates directly with others, creating a unified system where data flows seamlessly between departments. Manufacturing companies in industries like industrial machinery, electronics, metal fabrication, and automotive production utilize the platform to control material flows, manage resources, and monitor production schedules in real-time.

Production planning and control stand out as the system's strongest capabilities, reflecting the company's four-decade focus on manufacturing operations. The software includes comprehensive material requirements planning that automatically adjusts to events across departments, eliminating manual scheduling tasks. Advanced production scheduling features handle job shop operations, capacity planning, and production monitoring, allowing manufacturers to respond quickly when customer demands shift or unexpected issues arise.

The platform architecture offers deployment flexibility through both on-premise installations and cloud-based access. Companies can run the software on Linux or Windows servers, with Linux support dating back to 1995 demonstrating the company's early adoption of open-source technologies. Mobile applications for iOS and Android devices extend system access beyond desktop computers, enabling warehouse workers, sales representatives, and managers to interact with the ERP system from any location.

Customization capabilities distinguish abas ERP from larger competitors like SAP or Oracle. Users can modify business processes, screen layouts, and database structures without losing these customizations during system upgrades. The annual release cycle brings new features and technologies while preserving customer-specific modifications including custom fields, specialized reports, and unique workflows. This upgrade strategy means companies can evolve their ERP system over years without expensive reimplementation projects.

Training and implementation services come through both direct support and an extensive partner network. The largest implementation partner, MAIT, has completed over 650 ERP projects since 1996, while other certified partners operate across Europe, North America, and Asia. Project-level training uses real-world scenarios specific to each customer's industry, supplemented by the abas eLearning system for ongoing education. Implementation timelines vary based on company size and complexity but the structured methodology aims to minimize disruption during go-live phases.

Financial management features extend beyond basic accounting to include cost accounting, controlling, material cost posting, and comprehensive valuation tools. The system handles multi-currency transactions and operates in 28 languages, supporting both the user interface and display language. Daily evaluations provide transparency in cost accounting and coverage costing, helping management make informed decisions based on current financial data rather than month-old reports.

Integration capabilities allow abas ERP to connect with third-party solutions through multiple methods. Standard database interfaces like ODBC and SQL provide direct data access, while APIs written in common programming languages enable custom integrations. The system includes SOAP services for data exchange with other business software and comes bundled with Liferay-based business portal software and JasperReports for advanced reporting needs. EDI functionality supports electronic data interchange with suppliers and customers, particularly important for automotive suppliers managing blanket orders and call-off processing.

Customer feedback highlights the system's reliability and the company's commitment to continuous improvement. Users appreciate the ability to customize workflows without requiring extensive programming knowledge. Manufacturing companies specifically value the depth of production-related features that address industry-specific requirements rather than generic business processes. Some users note that the extensive feature set can feel overwhelming initially, though most consider this preferable to lacking necessary functionality.

Quality certifications include ISO 9001:2015 compliance, reflecting structured development and support processes. The company maintains its position as an independent ERP provider following its 2019 acquisition by Forterro, a European industrial software group. This ownership structure provides financial stability while preserving the specialized focus on mid-market manufacturers that defined abas since its founding.

Pricing follows a customized model based on company size, user count, and required modules. While specific costs aren't publicly listed, the system positions itself as more affordable than enterprise-tier solutions while offering comparable functionality for manufacturing operations. Companies typically engage with abas or certified partners for detailed quotes after initial consultations assess their specific requirements and existing IT infrastructure.

Contact options include the headquarters at Gartenstraße 67, 76135 Karlsruhe, Germany, reachable at +49 721 96723-0 or through sales@abas-erp.com. The company maintains subsidiary offices across Europe, with additional presence in the United States through Abas USA in Sterling, Virginia. Regional partners provide local support in countries where abas doesn't maintain direct offices, ensuring customers receive assistance in their native language and time zone.

For mid-sized manufacturers seeking comprehensive ERP solutions, abas presents a specialized alternative to generic business software. The combination of deep manufacturing functionality, upgrade-friendly customization, and four decades of industry focus creates a platform specifically aligned with the operational realities of modern manufacturing companies. While the system may lack the brand recognition of larger competitors, its 4,000-customer base and consistent growth suggest it delivers the practical capabilities that manufacturing businesses require.

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