Gartner releases latest mid-market manufacturing ERP vendor Magic Quadrant; Axapta rated as “Visionary”

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Gartner’s comments on Microsoft Axapta:

Microsoft Axapta: This vendor is growing worldwide, primarily because of its association with the Microsoft brand, its discrete manufacturing capabilities and its strong customization capabilities. Axapta's current challenge is to rapidly develop a competent and experienced implementation channel in North America. Its out-of-the-box functionality is suitable for industrial-based, plant-level manufacturers. Independent software vendors (ISVs) and resellers address specific vertical business requirements and horizontal gaps by extending the product.

When considering Axapta, users must evaluate the Axapta solution, ISV extensions and the viability of the SI partners, because critical functionality may be developed by the partner. Many partners are smaller organizations, so they may struggle with viability issues, ultimately creating a risk for midmarket ERP buyers that become dependent on code developed by the partner. Many channel partners are local to a specific geographic region; therefore, the execution of deals that include a global rollout are a challenge. Microsoft, however, does have some partnerships with organizations that are capable of global, multi-site deployments. (Note: Gartner made a similar point concerning SAP All-in-One)

Multisite or single-site companies with complex manufacturing requirements should evaluate Axapta. Global companies seeking midmarket solutions should evaluate Axapta, but place emphasis on the SI's ability to execute and accept management of multiple SIs across geographical boundaries.