Choosing ERP software becomes crucial as businesses strive for efficiency and streamlined operations. Odoo is a powerful open-source ERP solution that continually evolves to meet businesses' needs. With the release of Odoo 18, many users are curious about how it compares to its predecessor, Odoo 17. This blog provides a detailed comparison of the key features across various modules.
1. User Interface
- Odoo 17: The user interface is functional but a bit cluttered, which may affect productivity. Navigation can be challenging, especially for new users.
- Odoo 18: Introduces a more sophisticated, user-friendly interface with improved navigation and advanced dashboard features. The new Discovery Dashboard offers a comprehensive view of business processes, making it easier for users to understand workflows and onboard new employees.
2. Accounting Module
- Odoo 17: Basic invoicing and accounting functionalities.
- Odoo 18: Features an AI-driven invoicing system that can scan bills for payment, improved batch payment matching, & customizable invoice layouts. It also allows users to preview document layouts before finalizing. Improved bank synchronization and reconciliation tools make financial management easier, and it supports multi-currency transactions.
3. CRM & Sales
- Odoo 17: Basic commission tracking, general sales tracking, standard lead management, and limited automation capabilities.
- Odoo 18: Introduces a new module for calculating commissions based on criteria such as the amount sold and invoiced. It also features predictive lead scoring using AI to prioritize high-value prospects, enhanced automated follow-up actions for timely lead interactions, and an advanced PDF quote builder with custom zones and translation options.
4. Inventory & Manufacturing
- Odoo 17: Basic component management, requiring manual intervention for missing components during production. It includes standard manufacturing orders and basic inventory tracking with standard barcode scanning. Notifications are limited to basic alerts for low inventory, but they lack automation for reordering.
- Odoo 18: Improved component management, flexible manufacturing orders, and advanced inventory tracking. It supports multi-product scanning and provides real-time inventory updates. Automated notifications send proactive alerts for low inventory levels & automatically generate purchase orders when stock is low.
5. E-Commerce
- Odoo 17: Limited e-commerce capabilities with a basic checkout process, limited product filtering, and there is no option for a pickup location selector.
- Odoo 18: Improved e-commerce experience with a one-page checkout for streamlined purchasing, improved product filtering, and a pickup location selector widget. These features make it easier for customers to select their preferred pickup location, simplifying the overall checkout process and improving convenience.
6. AI & Automation
- Odoo 17: Limited automation features, so many tasks still require manual handling.
- Odoo 18: Includes advanced AI features, offering tools and AI-driven analytics to improve decision-making and operational efficiency. It provides predictive lead scoring, better workflow automation, and detailed reporting, helping businesses streamline processes and gain useful insights for planning.
7. Mobile Optimization
- Odoo 17: Mobile access was available but not fully optimized for all functionalities.
- Odoo 18: It offers a faster, more user-friendly mobile experience, enabling smooth operations across all devices. The updated mobile app allows for business management anytime and anywhere.
8. Security
- Odoo 17: Provides basic security protocols to protect user data.
- Odoo 18: Enhances security by offering advanced features, including two-factor authentication (2FA). This added layer of protection is crucial for safeguarding sensitive business data.
Conclusion
For businesses considering an upgrade, Odoo 18 not only builds on existing functions but also introduces new features to boost productivity and efficiency. Upgrading to Odoo 18 can significantly improve operational workflows and user experience, making it a valuable investment. As you compare versions, consider how these enhancements align with your business goals and day-to-day needs.
At Meraki Technology, we’re here to help drive your business’s digital transformation with Odoo 18's new features. Contact us to enhance your business operations and stay ahead of the competition.
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