AI is transforming the ERP industry. In fact, AI technology is advancing so rapidly that it can be difficult to find updated specifics on what AI can bring to your ERP system.
Having worked in the ERP industry since its very beginning, I’ve experienced all of the changes over the years. I’ve seen ERP systems evolve from their former status as back-office tools into robust, adaptive, artificial intelligence-based platforms.
In this overview, I evaluate the major ERP systems to explore how AI is now working in each one. By the end of this article, you will know how each ERP publisher is deploying AI, and which system might be the best fit for your business needs.
- Why AI Matters in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
- The Evaluation Framework for AI in ERP Platforms
- Acumatica Cloud ERP
- Oracle NetSuite
- Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central
- Odoo
- Final Verdict: Four Winners, Four Paths
- Choosing the Right ERP System for Your AI Journey
Why AI Matters in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
Business operations for organizations of every size will become more efficient and rapid due to 2025 ERP systems that function as intelligent, adaptive engines. The integration of artificial intelligence into Enterprise Resource Planning systems creates a new way for users to work with data alongside workflow automation and decision support.
These changes will particularly benefit small and mid-market businesses that have previously lacked access to advanced automation. Leading ERP systems, including Acumatica, NetSuite, Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, and Odoo, have transformed standard operational processes. These software publishers have developed robust AI-enhanced systems that match enterprise-grade functions with the needs of small and midsized companies.
The Evaluation Framework for AI in ERP Platforms
I have evaluated four major ERP platforms based on seven key AI criteria that form the basis of the assessment framework.
7 Key AI Criteria
- AI Assistant / Copilot
- Embedded Workflow AI
- No-Code Tools
- Custom AI Agent Framework
- Document AI / OCR
- Generative AI (Text Creation)
- Governance, Security, and Data Control
I’ll start by describing the individual ERP systems and how they currently embed AI in their processes. Then I’ll compare the options and make recommendations about which ERP system best suits certain kinds of business.
Acumatica Cloud ERP
Acumatica provides business-friendly AI solutions through a practical method. The AI Studio in Acumatica enables business users to create customized AI workflows through its user-friendly, no-code interface. The system allows for seamless integration of AP invoice scanning and project management into your workflow.
Acumatica’s focus on embedding AI where work happens — such as billing, budgeting, and document handling — makes the system feel intelligent yet unobtrusive. Your everyday business operations include AI tools, which serve as essential components of your business.
Why does it stand out?
- No-code AI workflow builder
- Project-specific document recognition
- Anomaly detection and alerting
- The system offers AI functionalities that specifically address distribution, professional services, and manufacturing industries.
Oracle NetSuite
The "AI Everywhere" strategy at NetSuite involves integrating AI functions throughout their platform without requiring additional charges. The Text Enhance function generates product descriptions and HR policies, while the CPQ Assistant (Configure, Price and Quote) supports sales teams in developing improved quotes. Additionally, SuiteScript + Prompt Studio enables users to create custom AI interactions.
AI achieves a strong cross-functional understanding because all operational components, including finance, CRM, inventory, and procurement, are integrated within a single unified data environment.
Why does it stand out?
- Built-in generative AI across all modules
- CPQ and sales AI assistants
- Prompt Studio and scriptable LLM API (Large Language Model)
- Enterprise-grade security and Oracle Cloud Infrastructure
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central
Microsoft’s Copilot is the most well-rounded AI assistant on the list. The suite contains this system as an integral component, which links perfectly to Microsoft 365 components, including Teams, Outlook, Power Platform, and Azure AI. Users can accomplish account reconciliation, inventory predictions, and customer churn analysis from a single interface.
Microsoft leads secure agent orchestration development in the background. Through their Model Context Protocol Agent Framework, organizations can develop domain-specific AI agents that obtain user permissions while performing actions, rather than providing recommendations.
Why it stands out:
- Microsoft Copilot is deeply embedded
- Full ecosystem synergy (Teams, Power BI, Outlook)
- Custom AI agent framework (MCP)
- Highest score across all AI categories
Odoo
The v19 version of Odoo has made significant AI advancements that many users overlook. Users can create natural-language workflows in Odoo v19 by describing procedures (e.g., "Notify me if a lead goes cold for 10 days"), and the system will automate them.
The AI tools in Odoo function throughout its modular structure, which enables text field functionality, OCR recognition, lead scoring, and helpdesk response capabilities through embedded AI. Odoo Studio allows non-technical users to incorporate smart logic into any screen or app through the platform.
Why it stands out:
- Natural-language business automation
- Contextual AI assistant trained on your data
- Modular and extensible via Odoo Studio
- Open-source flexibility with growing power
Final Verdict: Four Winners, Four Paths
Side-by-Side AI Function Overview
|
Function |
Acumatica |
NetSuite |
Microsoft Dynamics 365 |
Odoo |
|
AI Assistant / Copilot |
✅ Yes |
✅ Yes |
✅ Yes |
🟡 Partial |
|
Embedded Workflow AI |
✅ Yes |
✅ Yes |
✅ Yes |
✅ Yes |
|
No-Code AI Tools |
✅ Yes |
🟡 Partial |
✅ Yes |
✅ Yes |
|
Custom AI Agent Framework |
🟡 Partial |
🟡 Partial |
✅ Yes |
🟡 Partial |
|
Document AI / OCR |
✅ Yes |
✅ Yes |
✅ Yes |
✅ Yes |
|
Generative Text (GenAI) |
🟡 Partial |
✅ Yes |
✅ Yes |
✅ Yes |
|
Data Governance |
✅ Strong |
✅ Strong |
✅ Strong |
🟡 Medium |
Choosing the Right ERP System for Your AI Journey
Acumatica stands as the top choice for small and midsized businesses that need control, flexibility, and industry-focused AI within a no-code system.
For larger companies that need robust, scalable AI integrated into every process, NetSuite could be your choice, especially if your operations are multinational.
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central is a good choice for businesses already in the Microsoft ecosystem that want enterprise-grade AI with low implementation barriers.
For businesses seeking modularity, open-source freedom, and natural AI interaction, Odoo is the optimal choice.
The truth is that there are many factors involved in selecting an ERP system for your business beyond just artificial intelligence. It’s only one of the many essential factors in your decision-making process.
The optimal platform depends on your company's unique characteristics, as well as your readiness to leverage AI-driven decision support and your specific ERP solution requirements.
To learn more about which ERP system will work best for your business, check out Best ERP Software Platforms in 2025.
Explore ERP pricing differences in What Are the Major ERP Software Licensing Models?