The pricing, modules, HR management, hosting, UI/UX, and other features can vary between different versions of an ERP system. Consequently, there are distinctions in fees, features, support, and upgrade options when comparing Odoo Enterprise and Odoo Community.
If you’re uncertain about which version to install, keep reading this article on the differences between Odoo Community and Odoo Enterprise, shared by an expert consultant of Odoo in Australia.
Odoo Community vs. Odoo Enterprise: Understanding the Distinctions
Odoo Community is an open-source software product, which means you don’t need to purchase a license to use it. This version includes numerous applications beneficial for businesses and offers functional capabilities suitable for many business areas. However, when compared to the Enterprise version, it has somewhat limited capabilities.
You have the flexibility to customise all applications to align with your company’s requirements without being reliant on the system vendor. You only pay for the necessary functionality or module refinements.
On the other hand, Odoo Enterprise is a more advanced iteration of the same product, boasting an enhanced user interface and a broader range of functionalities. However, it requires monthly or annual fees for specific applications and licenses, depending on the number of users.
Similar to the Community version, you have the option to install the Enterprise version on your own or on a rented server. You can also tailor the system to your business needs by adding new applications and making modifications to the existing code, within the confines of the license agreement.
If you prefer, you can delegate the task of refining functionality and developing new modules to a certified Odoo partner, ensuring that the work is executed correctly and avoiding unnecessary expenses.
Furthermore, Odoo Enterprise offers a more appealing and user-friendly interface in both its mobile and desktop versions. It also provides the capability to automate warehouse operations with a barcode application. With Odoo Enterprise, you have access to the latest features and applications for improved automation, performance, and security.
About Odoo Community
In the past, Odoo had only one version, and it was free for everyone to use. This version was open-source, which means the software’s inner workings were transparent and could be modified by the Odoo community. However, it had some limitations—it didn’t work well on mobile devices, and it lacked advanced features and modules that many big businesses needed.
Think of it as the basic version of Odoo, with just the essentials. But to overcome these limitations and make Odoo better for businesses, Odoo later introduced another version called Odoo Enterprise.
About Odoo Enterprise
In 2015, Odoo launched Odoo Enterprise, which was a big change from the Community version. It came with many advanced modules and features, but there was a catch—it wasn’t free. You had to pay extra for these additional features.
While the Community version is open-source and free, the Enterprise version includes commercial features and services like iOS and Android apps. Here’s the key difference: the code of Odoo Enterprise isn’t open for everyone to see and modify. Only official Odoo partners and Odoo itself have access to this code.
Differences Between Odoo Enterprise & Community Editions
User Interface:
The Odoo Enterprise Version works on both mobile devices and desktop computers, while the Odoo Community Edition is only available on desktops. Furthermore, the Odoo Community version features a standard interface, whereas the Odoo Enterprise version offers a more user-friendly and efficient navigation experience.
Studio Access:
You have the freedom to customise your system directly within the application. Odoo Enterprise Edition users have access to features like Screen Customisation, Report Designer, Menus Editor, and Apps Creator. These features are not available to Community Edition users and come with some limitations on customisation. When using this module, you can modify the database but not the system’s underlying code.
Accounting:
The accounting app is accessible to users of both Odoo Community and Enterprise editions. However, users of these versions are limited to using payment and invoicing modules only. In contrast, Enterprise Edition users have access to the full accounting suite.
Project Management:
The Enterprise Edition includes features like employee timesheets and forecasting, which are not available in the Community Edition. These features are particularly useful for larger businesses, whereas smaller businesses may not need forecasting and employee timesheets at the basic level.
Sales Management:
Both Odoo Community and Enterprise Edition users can access CRM, the Customer portal, and Sales features. However, Enterprise Edition users have additional access to VoIP integration, subscriptions, digital products, helpdesk functionality, and e-signature capabilities.
Human Resources Management ( HRM ):
Both versions of Odoo offer essential HR functions such as an employee database, expenses management, leave management, and recruitment features. In addition, Enterprise Edition users have the option to hire Odoo developers to create modules for appraisals and department-level dashboards, providing deeper insights into employee performance.
Inventory Management:
Both Odoo Community and Enterprise editions support inventory management and purchasing management. However, Odoo Enterprise Edition users have access to additional modules, including barcode support and integration with major shipping companies like FedEx, UPS, and DHL.
Pricing:
The Odoo Community edition is an open-source version that doesn’t come with any price tags. You can freely obtain this edition from Odoo’s official website without needing to pay for a licensing fee. Yet, if you’re new to the world of ERP systems, you might require Odoo migration services or technical assistance to ensure a smooth implementation. Enlisting the help of experienced Odoo experts will steer you through the process, maximising the value you can derive from the platform.
The cost of Odoo ERP varies depending on factors such as the number of users, integrations, and the plan you select. This cost is typically calculated on a monthly basis and billed annually. It’s crucial to compare the pricing of Odoo Community and Enterprise editions before making a decision for your organisation. Pricing plays a significant role in your financial considerations when selecting an ERP system.
However, your decision should not solely hinge on pricing; it should align with the specific features needed to optimise your various processes. For example, if your manufacturing process requires advanced quality and PLM features, choosing the Enterprise edition may be the better choice to benefit from these capabilities. In essence, you need to assess the cost-to-value ratio and determine whether Odoo ERP will provide long-term benefits to your organisation.
Hosting:
Odoo Community users have the flexibility to choose from various hosting options. They can opt for third-party hosting providers or take charge of managing their hosting servers independently. This means you can use a local on-premise server or utilise a cloud hosting service, depending on your preferences and needs. Users of the Odoo Enterprise edition enjoy the same hosting options as Odoo Community users. Additionally, they have access to official Odoo hosting services, which include: –
- Odoo SaaS: This is a multi-tenant online cloud platform suitable for new Odoo users. However, it may not be the best choice if you plan to use custom modules or modules from the Odoo store.
- Odoo.sh: This advanced cloud platform comes with integrated GitHub capabilities. While it offers powerful features, it may require the assistance of dedicated Odoo developers to effectively manage and maintain the hosting server.
This guide aims to clarify the significant distinctions between Odoo Community and Enterprise editions. By exploring the advantages offered by the Enterprise edition and gaining insights into pricing and other crucial factors, you can make an informed decision. Take these insights into careful consideration and select the version that aligns best with your needs and objectives. To know more, you can get in touch with our Odoo experts at Envertis, a certified gold Odoo partner in Australia.