The Transition from SAP to Odoo
Experiences from the business practice
29 November, 2021 by
The Transition from SAP to Odoo
OBS Solutions GmbH, Hanna Wallulli

The Transition from SAP to Odoo

The popular ERP software SAP R/3 won't be supported for much longer, which means even loyal SAP customers need to look for a reasonable alternative. The process of finding a suitable solution to replace SAP R/3 can be particularly challenging for small- and medium-sized companies.

In this guide, we share more about these challenges and offer solutions for these businesses by suggesting a transition from SAP to Odoo.

Expected Challenges with SAP

SAP R/3 is no longer supported. Working with software that is not maintained is not an option in the ever-changing business world. Therefore, companies that rely on this software have no choice but to switch to a newer software variant or a software alternative with a similar scope of offerings.

Switching to the latest software from SAP, SAP 4/HANA, is equivalent to a new business. Even if the latest software generation comes from the same house, businesses shouldn't expect a quick switch to the newest version. In fact, the complexity of implementing the new version is equivalent to implementing completely new software. 

SAP 4/HANA is designed for large corporations. The level of effort for implementation and its functions and operating options are all geared to the needs of this core target group — not small, medium-sized, and growing companies. So far, there have been no adaptations of SAP 4/HANA for these companies.

SAP has a monopoly position with large corporations. The brand is well-known, and that is no coincidence because if you look at the corporate landscape, there are hardly any alternatives for large corporations. But it's a different story for small- and medium-sized companies: They don't have to rely on the software but can instead look for alternatives that are cheaper, more flexible, and better suited to their business needs.


Current Requirements for ERP Software

Integration

ERP software alone is not enough. Business owners rely on a smooth-running integration with CRM, e-commerce, web platforms, project management, and more to ensure the sustainability of their enterprise software.

Adaptability 

In a constantly changing business world, flexibility is the most important thing for any company to remain marketable and customer-focused. Fast adaptation options are therefore essential.

Usability

Not only does employee satisfaction and motivation increase when the software is up to date and easy to use, but the right software can drastically reduce processing times. And by optimizing processes, internal costs can also be reduced.

Digitalisiation

The business world has long been digital — and that is expected. Keeping pace with new features and technologies, such as paperless office, Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, Industry 4.0, and others, is essential to remain agile and strong competitively.

Costs 

In addition to the demands on the software and the service of the provider, cost also plays a decisive role. Small- and medium-sized companies may find it hard to afford the SAP offering because here, too, the costs are oriented toward that of large corporations.

Odoo vs. SAP - A Comparison

Branding

Industries

Features

Technical Quality

Pricing

User Interface

Dive deeper into the topic

Tobias Hammeke provides exclusive insights into the comparison between Odoo and SAP from the strategic perspective of business management positions — also taking into account the rapid global changes. Gain valuable first-hand insights from our customers.

Learn more about your individual requirements and options for switching to Odoo.

Trust in our broad experience.


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