Developments follow each other in rapid succession. Where you used to log in on your smartphone with a code, a few versions later you could also log in with your thumb and now even with your face. It's the same with software.
To take advantage of the latest features, Odoo continues to evolve. Every year at the Odoo Experience, the newest version is presented. Alongside improvements, new modules are also released. Think of the Knowledge Base module (as a replacement for Notion) in version 16 and the Shopfloor module in version 17. These modules are free to use as they are included in the all-in-one package. However, it is wise to have them properly set up by a knowledgeable partner (like us 😉).
Every new Odoo version that is released must be maintained (think of bug fixes and security updates). We are now already on version 17 and in October 2024version 18 will be launched.Of course, Odoo does not maintain 18 versions. That's way too many, and just like people don't buy an iPhone 6 anymore, older versions of Odoo are (almost) no longer used.
Odoo supports three versions. In October 2023, version 17 was launched. This means that as of October 1, 2024 (when version 18 is launched), version 15 (and older) will no longer be supported. Companies still using version 15 will be approached to migrate to the latest version.
All consultants, both from Odoo itself and from partner companies, must obtain a new certification for the latest version to ensure the quality of all consultants worldwide remains high. Keep this in mind when choosing an implementation partner.
Is migrating really necessary? Can't I just keep working on an older version?
Why would you want to do that? You don't use a Nokia 3310 anymore, do you? Yes, that phone was indestructible, but you can't browse the internet on it, it has a black-and-white screen, and if a friend wanted to send you a payment request, you wouldn't be able to receive it.
You can certainly continue working on an older version, but you will run into problems. Older versions are no longer supported by Odoo, which means they are not updated or modernized, and if a bug arises, it cannot be fixed. Odoo simply doesn't invest time in these versions anymore. Additionally, consultants are trained on the latest versions and may not remember how the older versions worked.
Je ERP-softwareIt's not a luxury product; it's the "beating heart of your business." If your ERP software doesn't function properly, it could have severe consequences. That's why it's crucial to take good care of it and keep it up to date.
How does the migration process work?
At Odoo Experts, we monitor whether you are ready for a migration. We assume you will migrate every 3 years. However, some companies prefer to migrate every year. This is also possible, of course. The advantage of annual migrations is that the transition from one version to the next is less significant.
Step 1: We will contact you to inform you that a migration is upcoming and schedule an appointment to create a migration plan.
Step 2: We visit your location (remote is also possible, if desired) and create this migration plan together. During this process, we thoroughly examine your organization, combined with our knowledge of the latest features from the last three versions.
- We look at your processes, which modules do you use? One module is adjusted more extensively than the other module. This way we can estimate in advance which changes to Odoo will have the most impact. Can we perhaps better support the processes through new functionality?
- We look at the amount of customization that is available. How does the customization fit, do we still need this in this new version? Or can we replace this with standard Odoo? Our starting point is always as little customization as possible. There is nothing wrong with customization, but every migration is an opportunity to move towards the standard based on advancing insight and the latest features of Odoo. Customization is anything that is not made by Odoo itself, including '3rd party apps'.Also read our blog about customization.Â
- We look at the amount of data you have in Odoo. The more data, the longer the migration ultimately takes and the greater the chance of errors that we have to correct.
- We look at the solutions created with Studio. Studio changes often break during the migration and will have to be recreated. We advise you to include everything in code as much as possible, so that it is 'migration-proof'. Remember thatOdoo Studio is not the holy grail.
Step 3: We will start working on the topics above. We perform a test migration, validate Odoo's migration script and help with reporting errors and implement solutions where necessary. Ultimately, we prepare everything for the real migration. This involves the most work (number of hours).
Step 4: The actual migration takes place. We do this at an agreed time, since the customer cannot use Odoo at that time. The migration itself takes an average of half a day. Sometimes we need 1 person for this, sometimes 2.
Step 5: The migration is complete, and the system is ready to use again. Especially if you migrate every 3 years (3 versions), there will be quite a few changes. Fields may be in located different places, there are new options and possibilities, and sometimes things don't transfer correctly. Therefore, post-migration support is needed to help you get back on track. In some cases, employees may even need training, which we can also provide.
Step 6: This is the moment to review your ERP system. Are we still working efficiently in Odoo? Are there any (new) modules that would be useful for our company that we aren't currently using? Many customers take this opportunity to thoroughly review their system. This is wise as we are already extensively involved and can provide targeted advice. For example, are you already using the HR module? Or the Helpdesk module? There is often much more possible with Odoo than you might think.
What does a migration cost?
Het Implementation of an ERP systemis an investment. However, what is often forgotten is that you get a lot in return. Especially in terms of efficiency.
A migration also costs money. The costs can vary significantly. There are a few factors that determine the price, and these are the factors we consider in the migration plan.
- How many modules are you using in Odoo, and more importantly, which modules are you using? For example, in version 16, the Subscriptions app was completely changed. All data is transferred to the Sales app. If you are using this app, migrating it will take extra time.
- Do you have custom solutions? If so, how much and what kind? Can we replace it with standard Odoo features? Estimate that migrating custom solutions will cost about 75% of the original implementation costs. Custom solutions are always expensive, so we try to avoid it as much as possible.
- How much data needs to be transferred to the next version?
These factors are so significant that the price for a migration can vary greatly. Every company is unique, and so is each migration.
If it's time for a migration, or if you are truly progressive and prefer to migrate every year, we are here to help.Feel free to contact us! We are happy to assist you..
How does an Odoo migration work?