After the successful implementation of Odoo as a replacement for SAP, we have taken the initiative to compile and share a comprehensive overview of the valuable insights and experiences gained throughout this transition.
Implementation Challenges
We would like to classify these challenges into different aspects:
Functional Needs:
System Architects
It is important to highlight to the client that Odoo's modular architecture differs from SAP. The project consultant should ensure that users grasp the interconnected nature of the various app modules.
Terminologies
During the project, you will come across many cases where a term used in SAP differs from the same functionality in Odoo.
We advise the project consultant and the client's product owner to thoroughly discuss the identified gaps during the GAP analysis, as some differences may stem from varying interpretations or terminology used in each system, but they serve the same functionality.
Data Migration
We usually migrate only the master data and some open orders only. If you want to make the data migration simple, you can easily do an export from SAP and import in Odoo; it is to be noted that although this method is simple for the users, it will probably be more time-consuming, especially in the case of order import. Here are some points for the main data tables:
Partners:
Regarding the partners (customers and vendors), you can simply use the export and import method. You need to consider that in Odoo, the invoice/delivery addresses can be a child contact in the main partner; therefore, you need to map SAP's data structure to Odoo's structure. Besides, there might be some functionalities used in SAP like GLN number (for EDI integration), the import of which shall be done after installing an external module.
Products:
In importing the products, the key elements are variants and logically the attributes to be well prepared before the import.
Stock:
Thanks Odoo's simple Inventory Adjustment, this data import is very easy. The important point here is the inventory valuation settings before doing this step as well as the right date for the inventory adjustment.
Transactional Data:
Generally it is not recommend to bring transactional data from one system into another system, because there are multiple factors to be considered in importing or migrating these data. However, in some cases, this is a MUST and needs to be done, e.g. for open sales orders, yet there is no solid prescription for how to do it, because it varies in each project. The project consultant can guide you through this.
Technical Considerations:
EDI Integrations
One challenge in SAP-Odoo migration is the EDI functionality. Thanks to Odoo's open source strategy and the strong Odoo community (OCA), the standard EDI import and connections can be added into Odoo.
In one of our SAP projects, we did this in another level, and that's generating multiple sale orders, inventory pickings, returns, as well as credit notes, all at once based on one SAP sales report. We also combined this with an AS2 connection which is also a unique achievement.
Obsolete Technologies
We have encountered multiple times such technologies which are so obsolete in the market that you cannot integrate them into any new system like Odoo. During the analysis phase, the project consultant must be picky about it, otherwise, this will have an impact on the project budget.
User-Experience:
Interface & Visual Look (GUI)
In the old era of complex and user-UNfriendly systems, users were obligated to work with codes, ugly lists and multi-clicks menus to do one single and easy action in the system; however, in the current digital world, UX (User Experience) has become very important for the users. We can proudly say that Odoo is really user-friendly and you won't get tired of working with it. You can try creating an order for a new customer in Odoo and in SAP to see which one is more efficient. :)
User Habits
Previous SAP users should be now Odoo users and this is an important point, especially during the training phase. The project consultant should be aware of the habits of the users and the processes they are used to. Of course, these users can do the processes much easier in Odoo, but sometimes in another way with another logic, and this is to be considered throughout the project.
SAP vs. Odoo
Since many companies are deciding to move to Odoo and seek for a comparison between SAP and Odoo, we would like to share with you a whitepaper where you can see the differences between some ERP systems such as SAP Business One, Odoo and Microsoft Dynamics:
Do not hesitate to get more guidance by booking a consulting time from us: