Companies that have relied on Infor A+ (APLUS) or Infor FACTS face a critical decision point. These legacy ERP systems, once considered cutting-edge, are now reaching the end of their life cycles. With limited support, shrinking user communities, shrinking consultant communities, and growing gaps in when compared with more modern functionality, businesses still operating on these platforms must carefully evaluate their next move.
At the center of this transition lies Infor EDI—the backbone of efficient supply chain communication. Whether upgrading to another Infor ERP or migrating to a different modern system, EDI integration is critical to ensuring data flows smoothly during and after the migration. This article outlines the migration path for companies still running Infor A+ or FACTS, explores the role of EDI for Infor, and provides practical guidance to ensure business continuity.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Infor A+ and Infor FACTS
- GraceBlood’s Unique Role in A+ and FACTS EDI
- Infor A+
- Infor FACTS
- Why Staying on Legacy Systems is Risky
- Migration Options for A+ and FACTS Users
- The Role of Infor EDI in Migration
- Best Practices for a Smooth Migration
- The Future Beyond A+ and FACTS
Understanding Infor A+ (APLUS) and Infor FACTS
For decades, Infor A+ (APLUS) and Infor FACTS were the workhorses of the distribution and manufacturing industries. Both systems gained traction in the 1980s and 1990s for their ability to automate day-to-day operations at a time when many businesses were still managing orders, invoices, and inventory by hand or through homegrown systems.
- Infor A+ (APLUS) was especially popular among distributors with complex warehouse operations. Its strengths lay in inventory control, order management, and financial accounting, all packaged in a no-frills, green-screen interface that got the job done. Companies valued its reliability and straightforward workflows, even if it wasn’t flashy.
- Infor FACTS, on the other hand, became known for its flexibility and ease of use. Designed with small to mid-sized distributors in mind, it was affordable, accessible, and capable of handling core ERP functions like purchasing, order entry, accounts receivable/payable, and general ledger.
During their heyday, both platforms offered significant advantages:
- They replaced manual processes with automated, system-driven workflows.
- They standardized critical functions like invoicing, purchasing, and inventory tracking.
- They created consistency and efficiency across departments, giving distributors and manufacturers a competitive edge.
But while A+ and FACTS were once considered cutting-edge, time has revealed their limitations. Built on legacy architectures, these systems were never designed for today’s cloud-first, API-connected economy. Their interfaces feel dated, customization can be brittle, and integration with modern platforms often requires costly workarounds. For companies that continue to rely on them today, these once-trusted platforms are starting to feel more like anchors than enablers, making the conversation about migration not just a matter of “if” but “when.”
GraceBlood’s Unique Role in A+ and FACTS EDI
One of the reasons GraceBlood is uniquely equipped to help companies migrate off Infor A+ and Infor FACTS is our direct involvement in developing their EDI modules.
- A+ EDI Module – Aurora Technologies, acquired by GraceBlood in 2018, originally authored and developed the A+ EDI module. This means our team not only understands the technical underpinnings of A+ EDI but also has insider knowledge of how it was designed to function within the broader ERP ecosystem.
- FACTS EDI Module – GraceBlood itself authored and developed the FACTS EDI module. As the architects of this functionality, we know its strengths, its limitations, and how to transition businesses off FACTS EDI with minimal disruption.
Because of this heritage, GraceBlood isn’t just another EDI provider—we’re the original developers of the EDI technology many companies still use within A+ and FACTS today. That firsthand expertise positions us to deliver smoother migrations, faster implementations, and long-term solutions that honor the unique requirements of businesses still running these legacy systems.
Infor A+ (APLUS)
Infor A+ was widely adopted by distribution companies, particularly in industries such as industrial supplies, consumer goods, and wholesale. Built with strong warehouse and distribution capabilities, A+ offered inventory management, order processing, and financials in a straightforward package.
However, the system’s green-screen interface and reliance on older architecture have become major roadblocks to scalability. Many companies that still rely on A+ are finding it increasingly difficult to connect the ERP to modern digital platforms, cloud solutions, or customer-facing systems.
Infor FACTS
Infor FACTS, another ERP solution tailored for distributors, was known for its affordability, flexibility, and ease of use. Like A+, it served companies well during its prime, offering solid core ERP features such as purchasing, order entry, AR/AP, and inventory.
Yet, FACTS faces the same challenge: it wasn’t built for today’s cloud-driven, API-connected economy. Support is waning, and companies staying on FACTS risk being left behind in terms of security updates, compliance, and integration options.
Why Staying on Legacy Systems is Risky
While some organizations have been hesitant to leave A+ or FACTS due to comfort, cost, or resource constraints, the risks of remaining on these platforms are growing:
- Limited vendor support – Infor has shifted focus to its newer, cloud-ready ERP systems, ERP resellers are also shrinking their legacy support staffs, which all leavesing A+ and FACTS customers with fewer updates and less support.
- Integration gaps – Connecting these legacy systems to modern tools (e-commerce platforms, APIs, CRMs, shipping solutions) requires heavy customization.
- EDI complexity – Traditional EDI setups on legacy systems often rely on outdated mapping, custom scripts, or brittle VAN connections that are costly to maintain.
- Talent scarcity – IT professionals with deep expertise in FACTS or A+ are retiring or moving on, making it harder to find skilled support.
- Compliance risks – Industries such as healthcare, retail, and logistics require modern EDI compliance. Legacy systems struggle to keep up with evolving mandates like GS1 standards or retail-specific EDI requirements.
Migration Options for A+ and FACTS Users
For companies ready to move on, there are several migration paths available. The best choice depends on business size, industry, budget, and long-term growth plans.
Migrate to a Modern Infor ERP
Infor has developed a portfolio of modern ERP solutions designed to replace legacy products like FACTS and A+. Options include:
- Infor CloudSuite Distribution (CSD) – Tailored specifically for distributors, this cloud-native ERP includes built-in analytics, mobility, and modern integrations. Most of our clients have opted for this platform.
- Infor CloudSuite Industrial (SyteLine) – A strong choice for manufacturers and distributors needing advanced planning, production, and supply chain management.
- Infor M3 – A global ERP solution for larger enterprises, particularly in food & beverage, fashion, and distribution.
For companies already invested in the Infor ecosystem, migrating to CloudSuite options provides continuity and familiarity while unlocking access to cloud scalability and modern features.
Transition to Another ERP Vendor
Some companies may choose to migrate away from Infor entirely. Popular alternatives include:
- NetSuite (cloud ERP for mid-market businesses with strong e-commerce integration).
- Microsoft Dynamics 365 (flexible ERP/CRM platform with strong Microsoft ecosystem integration).
- Acumatica (modern cloud ERP with strong financials, distribution, and manufacturing capabilities for growing businesses).
This path requires careful planning, particularly when it comes to EDI and data migration, as workflows will need to be re-mapped.
Hybrid Strategy: EDI-Led Migration
For companies hesitant to rip and replace their ERP immediately, another path is to modernize EDI first. By upgrading to a managed Infor EDI integration solution, businesses can streamline partner communications, reduce manual processes, and prepare data flows for a future ERP migration.
This approach ensures that when the ERP migration does occur, EDI connections are already stable, modern, and flexible—minimizing disruption.
The Role of Infor EDI in Migration
Why Infor EDI Matters
For distributors and manufacturers, EDI isn’t optional—it’s the lifeline of supply chain communication. Purchase orders, invoices, shipping notices, and inventory updates all flow through EDI.
When migrating from A+ or FACTS, ensuring uninterrupted EDI is essential. Trading partners expect compliance with their EDI requirements, and even a short disruption can lead to:
- Chargebacks or financial penalties.
- Strained partner relationships.
- Shipping delays and inventory bottlenecks.
Modernizing EDI During Migration
Upgrading to Infor EDI—or a cloud-managed EDI solution that integrates with Infor ERPs—provides several benefits during the migration:
- Seamless continuity – EDI mappings and partner connections are migrated alongside the ERP transition.
- Scalability – A modern EDI platform supports APIs, AS2, SFTP, and cloud workflows, ensuring future compatibility.
- Compliance readiness – Retailers, 3PLs, and government agencies often update EDI requirements. A managed EDI solution ensures compliance is continuously maintained.
- ERP flexibility – Decoupling EDI from legacy systems allows businesses to migrate ERP platforms without re-building all EDI connections from scratch.
Best Practices for a Smooth Migration
Conduct a System Audit
Before migrating, assess your current A+ or FACTS setup:
- Which customizations are mission-critical?
- Which reports, workflows, or integrations are unique to your business?
- How many trading partners and EDI documents are active?
This audit helps scope the complexity of migration.
Prioritize EDI Continuity
Treat Infor EDI migration as a project within the larger ERP migration. Document every trading partner, transaction type, and mapping requirement to ensure nothing gets lost.
Leverage Data Cleansing
Legacy systems often contain duplicate, outdated, or inaccurate data. Cleansing customer, vendor, and product data before migration reduces headaches and ensures a clean start.
Choose the Right Implementation Partner
Migration isn’t just about software—it’s about expertise. Working with a partner experienced in Infor EDI and ERP migrations helps avoid pitfalls, accelerates timelines, and ensures compliance.
Phase the Migration
Instead of a “big bang,” consider phasing:
- Start with non-critical modules or partners.
- Test EDI mappings with a small set of trading partners.
- Scale up once confidence is established.
The Future Beyond A+ and FACTS
Migrating off Infor A+ and FACTS isn’t just a necessity—it’s an opportunity. By moving to modern ERP platforms with strong Infor EDI capabilities, businesses gain:
- Cloud scalability – Flexible hosting, lower IT costs, and faster upgrades.
- Automation – Reduced manual processes through touchless EDI transactions.
- Analytics and visibility – Real-time reporting and dashboards for smarter decision-making.
- Integration power – Seamless connections to e-commerce, CRM, logistics, and financial platforms.
For distributors, manufacturers, and wholesalers, this means not just keeping up with competitors but positioning for long-term growth.
Choosing the Right ERP Destination
Infor A+ and FACTS served businesses well for decades, but the limitations of these legacy systems are now clear. Companies that continue to operate on them face increasing risks—ranging from compliance failures to missed growth opportunities. The migration path forward centers on modern ERP systems and Infor EDI integration. By modernizing EDI first with solutions like GraceBlood’s VelociLink, conducting a thorough system audit, and choosing the right ERP destination, businesses can ensure a smooth transition that preserves partner relationships and strengthens supply chain efficiency.
Ultimately, the migration from Infor A+ or FACTS isn’t just about replacing outdated technology—it’s about building a foundation for agility, scalability, and long-term competitiveness in a digital-first economy. Don’t risk disruption or compliance issues with outdated systems. GraceBlood authored the original Infor EDI modules for both A+ and FACTS—making us the most qualified partner to guide your migration.
👉 Talk to our Infor EDI migration experts today and start building a modern, future-ready ERP and EDI environment.
