What is cloud manufacturing software and how does it differ from traditional ERP?
Cloud manufacturing software runs entirely on internet-hosted infrastructure, giving your team real-time access from anywhere without on-premise servers or complex IT maintenance. Unlike traditional ERP systems, which are rigid, expensive to customise, and slow to deploy, cloud manufacturing software like Keel is built around your exact processes, deployed in weeks, and can be iterated as your operations evolve — all on fully managed serverless infrastructure.
How long does it take to get a custom manufacturing platform up and running with Keel?
Most Keel manufacturing platforms are live within weeks, not months. The process begins with mapping your exact operations, followed by modelling your system in the Keel Schema, building and deploying on serverless infrastructure, and handing over full ownership to your team. Keel also offers a Managed Migration Service to help you transition seamlessly from your existing tools.
Can Keel's manufacturing software integrate with our existing tools and systems?
Yes. Keel is built for seamless integration. The platform connects with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and Amazon, financial systems for budget updates and invoice reconciliation, third-party logistics providers, IoT devices such as smart shelves and sensors, and a wide range of external APIs. Your existing tech stack is not replaced — it's enhanced with a unified operations layer built around it.
How does Keel handle production tracking and quality control in manufacturing?
Keel's Production Management module traces every input, transformation, and output from raw materials through to finished goods. Quality control checkpoints are embedded directly into your production flow — not bolted on as an afterthought. Specifications, tolerances, and approvals are placed exactly where they need to be, modelled around your actual stages and terminology.
Is Keel suitable for manufacturers in regulated industries?
Absolutely. Keel was originally built by a team operating in the highly regulated pharmacy sector, where compliance is non-negotiable. The platform includes full audit trails, batch and serial number tracking, expiry date management, quarantine and hold statuses, custom user roles and permissions, and ICO-registered data protection — making it well-suited for regulated manufacturing environments.
What does 'owning your operations software' mean with Keel?
With Keel, you own your data model, your workflows, your codebase, and your infrastructure configuration. There is no vendor lock-in. Your system is version-controlled, fully accessible to your engineering team, and can be evolved, extended, or self-hosted. This is fundamentally different from licensed ERP software where the vendor controls what you can and cannot change.
How does Keel's inventory management handle multi-location and complex SKU structures?
Keel's Inventory Management System provides real-time visibility across every warehouse location, down to individual bin positions. It handles any SKU complexity including products with unique variants and attributes, multi-location stock transfers, reservation tracking, and barcode scanning. Lot control, serial numbers, and expiry date management ensure full traceability from receipt to shipment — with automated reorder points and FIFO or average cost valuation.
What kind of support and onboarding does Keel provide for new customers?
Keel offers a 'Build for Me' service where the team works alongside you in real-time to model the platform around your actual business processes, getting you live within weeks before handing over full ownership. For customers migrating from existing systems, a Managed Migration Service is available to ensure a smooth transition with minimal disruption to your operations.