When it comes to choosing the right edition, hosting type, and version of Odoo for your business, there are several options to consider. Each option has its own set of benefits and drawbacks, so it's important to carefully evaluate your specific needs and requirements before making a decision.
There are three variables to decide on when choosing Odoo as your ERP solution.
1. Odoo version: Odoo only supports the last three version of Odoo (currently V16, V15 and V14). Odoo also releases "minor" versions such as v16.1, v16.3, etc those versions are released inbetween major version to either fix bugs or because a major improvement is available inbetween two subsequent major version (eg: Odoo 16.3 improves the UX) . We assume in this article that you want the latest features of odoo and hence at least the last major version which is V16.
2. Odoo edition: Odoo Community (free) vs Odoo Enterprise (paid licenses)
3. Odoo hosting type: Online (Odoo.com), Odoo.SH or on premise
Let's now explore the different combinations:
Odoo Enterprise, hosted online
One option to consider is the Odoo Enterprise SaaS (online) V16. This is the latest version of Odoo that is hosted on Odoo.com. One of the main benefits of this option is that it is the most affordable option for the Odoo Enterprise edition. Additionally, there are no extra costs for hosting and version upgrades (whenever Odoo releases a new version, such as V17) are free and require no intervention.
However, there is a downside to this option. You are limited by the standard Odoo features and no developments are possible. This is the best choice if Odoo matches all of your requirements "out of the box." If you anticipate needing to undertake developments in the future, it is estimated that it would take about one man day to switch to another Odoo hosting method.
Odoo Enterprise, hosted on on Odoo.SH
Another option to consider is the Odoo Enterprise V16, which is the latest version of Odoo hosted on Odoo.SH. One of the main benefits of this option is that you can customize your Odoo ERP through developments, and the hosting is Odoo-standardized, which makes handovers to other IT providers easier than if your ERP was hosted on a on-premise server.
However, there are also downsides to this option. Each version upgrade (whenever Odoo releases a new version, such as V17) will require an estimate of two man days. Additionally, you will be paying hosting costs that are not the most affordable nor the most expensive on the market. Finally, another downside that is often forgotten is that you will not be able to migrate to a any minor version such as 16.3 but you will have to wait the release of a major version.
Odoo Community hosted on an on premise server
Finally, there is the option of the Odoo Community V15, which is the open-source version of Odoo hosted on an Agitech server. One of the main benefits of this option is that you pay no license fee whatsoever and no matter the number of users, it will be free. Additionally, you can customize Odoo as much as you want through developments.
However, there are downsides to this option as well. You are not on the Enterprise version and you only have access to a few Odoo applications. Version upgrades (whenever Odoo releases a new version, such as V17) will require an estimate of two man days depending on the complexity of the developments. Additionally, since you're on a dedicated server, handover to other IT providers is not easy and will require more effort. You can upgrade to Odoo Enterprise whenever you want, but it will require a budget estimation depending on the developments.
Overall, the choice of the right Odoo edition, hosting type, and version will depend on your specific needs and requirements. We can carefully evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of each option, and consider factors such as cost, customization capabilities, and future developments before making a decision.
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