Migrating Odoo will have many advantages including new functionalities and enhancements for security support with improved performance. there are more organizations seeing enhancements from continuous added features too due to Odoo developing newer updates every year to ensure you have the capabilities to get the most out of your software to ensure you are able to remain competitive. However, there are different steps and processes that can be taken under the migration process, each with a unique context. It could be from Odoo Community to Enterprise, or performing a cleanup service, or modifying migration scripts. Familiarizing yourself with the steps can assist to make the migration process smoother and increase your level of success when you plan created by Odoo. In this section we will go through basic Odoo migration methods, evaluating your Odoo choices, determining the best system for your organization and allow us to help you, cross the benefits.
Why upgrade to the newest version?
With the most recent version of Odoo you will have new features that offer organizations benefits compared to older versions through including new performance, rapid support and timely access to bug fixes. Let's highlight the top three functionalities in Odoo migration that organizations should consider within the new cycle.. including both new features, functionalities, modules & integrations.
Enhanced features, new modules, and improved integration
Each Odoo update includes substantial changes in features, modules, and integration with new software that enables businesses to operate more effectively and efficiently. For example, Odoo 18 has added significant modules and user-friendly interfaces. Odoo's integration of its CRM with Outlook also demonstrates how Odoo continues to expand its integration across apps, improved workflows, and even simplified multi-department usage.
Fast performance, smooth experience, and user-friendly interface
In every release made by Odoo, they have improved the speed of implementation making the user experience easier. For example, Odoo 16 delivered 3.7 times faster to load and render in the backend performance while Odoo 18 wants to better page load time under 3 seconds. Not only does faster page load time provide better user experience, it optimizes the website's SEO, and helps user websites better rank in search engines. With improved load speeds and performance, a new big value added is the migration to the latest version of Odoo is giving benefits to their users, especially the marketing, sales and customer support teams.
Long-term support and permanent bug fixes from Odoo
Odoo will only support and provide updates for three versions of software. If users do not upgrade, they miss updates, bug fixes, and official support. Upgrades not only help to ensure that the user's system will be stable and secure but helps to protect the user in case issues arise with the vendor and the user would like access to support in a timely manner.
When Should Businesses Migrate Odoo Into A New Version?
Odoo migration policy decisions are generally cost versus benefit decisions. Migrating once every three years to a supported version is generally good practice. However, there may be situations where businesses will need to update early such as (not an exhaustive list):
- Limited or no custom or third-party modules
- New features that streamline or automate processes
- Ongoing system performance issues
The Odoo Migration Process You Need To Know
If you decided to migrate to a new version of Odoo, then it is important to choose the migration package through asking questions such as the following:
• Are you using any custom or third-party modules?
• Is there a web hosting solution in place?
• What have you been utilizing in Odoo - enterprise edition, or community edition?
• What are the current goals?
These are all value add questions to help frame what is required in a migration plan. Steps will generally involve:
Step 1: Review new features and addressing legacy modules
Each new Odoo version arrives with many new features, updates and enhancements. Much of the time, these updates add to an existing feature, or can replace third-party modifications or modules used in earlier versions of Odoo. Repeating and reviewing these features is important because it allows you to analyse which of the old custom modules are still applicable, eliminating duplicate activity and enhancing user experience with less changes to their old routines, and you can lessen migration costs by bringing along fewer changes; because less modules would need amendments and maintenance during and after the migration process, and you can leverage On top, you can configure your system to make it easier to accommodate future updates, and a good transition process.
Step 2: Update custom modules and third-party integrations
Next, to determine which custom modules you still wish to have, and if they can be upgraded for the latest version, the next step is to tailor the code so that it will be satisfactory when running on the updated version of Odoo. These updates can vary in complexity: some modules may need only minor changes, while others may require a complete overhaul. For example, moving from Odoo 12 to Odoo 14 meant the accounting module was massively restructured, that invoicing and processing journal entries were now integrated. Any major change required redesigning the accounting and financial reporting modules, while also implementing the changed policies and procedures. At this point it is also important to pay attention to any third party integrations purchased from the Odoo store, because as new APIs, certification, and compatibility may be required in the new version. Taking time to implement and update means avoiding issues with critical operations during migration and helps ensure smooth transition to the new system.
Step 3: Update database
Once you have executed an update or redundant optimizations, the next step is to update your database. In terms of databases, only databases running Odoo Enterprise have any official migration support, and Odoo usually only offers support for migration for the last three versions at any given time with the actual Odoo migration process. The benefits of performing an upgrade to your database will not only be to migrate the data but also, effectively, help you transfer the data accurately, following the new system requirements that you choose to migrate to.
Step 4: Choose Odoo hosting
Odoo hosting is pretty simple. You can host it yourself, host it in your own cloud, or leave the hosting to your Odoo partner. If you host it yourself, you have two options for migration.
- Running Odoo Migration Script on your server: It simply means running the migration script on your own server, which means you must run the script yourself. When you click on start from the console on your server, it will start the run and when the run is successful, the database is refreshed. If there are any issues (usually owing to custom modules or specific database settings) the run generates error logs. In which case, you will have to open a ticket with Odoo to allow Odoo to fix the script for you to run.
- Uploading your Database Dump to the Odoo website: If it seems too complicated to figure out how to run the migration script itself, you can also upload your database dump to the Odoo site. Odoo will handle the migration for you, address any issues that arise, and restore the updated database. If you prefer a hands-on approach, this option is fine, leaving the technical work to Odoo’s team.
- Moving to Odoo.sh: If you are using Odoo.sh for Hosting, your next step is to upload the database dump to the Odoo website. Odoo will then migrate your database, and you will have an updated version to restore as a staging environment. The Odoo documentation at Odoo.sh has detailed instructions on how this migration process works.
- Migration to Odoo SaaS/Odoo Cloud: For those on Odoo’s SaaS or Odoo Cloud, the process is more straightforward. Since Odoo SaaS does not support external modules or customizations (only Odoo Studio and a few technical programs), development is straightforward. With this plan, you also get free hosting.
How long does it take to migrate to a new Odoo?
The time it takes to implement Odoo migration can vary depending on many factors.
- Your current version of Odoo is the one you want to upgrade to
- Time to make your migration request
- Number and intensity of each variable
For both minor and major projects, generally it's wise to plan at least 1-2 months in advance (in the case of the migration script itself, we typically see stability post-4-6 months after a new version is released, so plenty of time for planning and research). Regardless of whether you are planning a minor or major migration, we do not recommend upgrading a new version of Odoo as soon as it is released - best to wait for any migration script issues to be resolved.
With larger systems, migrations take longer, approximately 3-4 months, as larger systems tend to have independent planning and additional steps, considerations, or conventions.
Furthermore, If you are in the Odoo Community, here is a breakdown of the options:
- Upgrade to Odoo Enterprise: The simplest way is to upgrade from Odoo Community to Odoo Enterprise and upgrade to the latest version. Enterprise licenses are all inclusive as they cover upgrades. Upgrading is usually a huge time and money saver than sticking with a system that has only a few users. The monthly subscription is less than the price of creating a custom migration from scratch.
- Do another clean implementation: For clients using older minor versions of Odoo that have little customization or poor applications, the best option may be just to start over with a new clean implementation of the latest version. That way this is particularly suitable for businesses with extensive customs. There is no need to use modules and you can rely heavily on the built-in features.
- Odoo components to fulfill their functionality: Just starting all over gives a clean opportunity to research if there is an updated Odoo functionality or improved configuration and possibly identify functionality that you really don't need any longer. A key consideration is to have a strong data migration process to make sure all required aspects of data migration are successful to the new system.
- Prepare your own migration script: If your Odoo Community configuration is large, and customized, or you just want to migrate to Odoo Enterprise (usually due to the number of internal users), creating a custom migration script may be your way best In this way, preparing a script to match the specific data structure with the default settings on your system can be done, ensuring a smooth transition to the new version when it maintains its unique structure.
However, this process can be complicated. This is why we think working with an Odoo specialist with a minimum of 3-4 years of base migration experience (most importantly a proven partner) is best, and ultimately will mitigate the risk of migration and bad experiences, and remove the possibility of unscheduled, high-cost downtime, and correctly manage and test your migration lists before actual use.
Conclusion
Odoo migration is essential for businesses looking to enhance efficiency and stay competitive in today’s fast-paced market. Leveraging Odoo's improved features and functionalities can streamline operations and drive growth. Investing in the latest technology not only optimizes your system but also empowers your team to tackle modern challenges effectively. Prioritizing migration ensures that your Odoo system remains a vital asset for your organization's success in an increasingly digital landscape. Don’t hesitate to contact us to multiply your Odoo power!
Sally N.
BDM - Partner and Alliance
With over 7 years of experience in ERP advisory, Sally has worked closely with SMEs across Malaysia to streamline operations and drive digital transformation. Her deep understanding of business processes and hands-on approach have made her a trusted advisor to many growing companies. Through this blog post, Sally aims to share practical insights and real-world lessons drawn from her implementation experience, offering guidance to businesses navigating their own ERP journey.
