ERPNext or Dolibarr: the open source ERP battle for SMEs
Choosing an ERP system is never easy. Especially when you're an SME looking for a comprehensive, flexible and cost-effective open source solution. Two names often stand out: Dolibarr and ERPNext.
These two business management software packages each have their fans, their strengths and... their complexities. Between integrated modules, advanced customisation, accounting, CRM or stock management, the choice can quickly become a headache if you don't know which way to turn.
👉 Don't panic. We've dug deeper, compared and tested. And above all, we've summarised what really counts for you: features, interface, price, integrations, technical support... Not forgetting real-life use cases to help you identify the tool that best suits your business needs.
What is Dolibarr?
Dolibarr overview
Dolibarr is an open source ERP software package developed in France, designed to simplify day-to-day business management. Aimed primarily at SMEs, the self-employed and associations, it brings together a wide range of business modules in a single interface: accounting, CRM, sales management, invoicing, inventory, HR and much more.
Its great strength? Simple operation, a clear interface, and above all a modular structure that allows each company to activate only the functions it needs. This avoids the "big, complex ERP for nothing" syndrome.
With an active community, regular updates and a good balance between native features and customisation options, Dolibarr is a serious alternative to heavier - and more expensive - ERPs.
Dolibarr's main features
Dolibarr offers surprisingly broad functional coverage for an open source ERP. But before going into detail, remember that each company can activate only the modules it really needs. This 'à la carte' aspect makes the solution particularly scalable and adaptable to SMEs and more complex structures alike.
⚒️ Here are just some of the key functionalities available in Dolibarr:
- sales management: quotes, orders, invoices, customers, suppliers ;
- integrated CRM: tracking prospects, opportunities, reminders, etc;
- accounting: journal, entries, bank reconciliation, VAT ;
- stock management: multi-warehouse, movements, inventory, alerts ;
- projects and tasks: project tracking, resource management, time spent ;
- HR management: holidays, expense reports, planning;
- customer portal: secure access for your customers to their documents;
- third-party modules: online shop, POS, EDM, etc.
Dolibarr
Advantages and disadvantages of Dolibarr
Like any ERP solution, Dolibarr has its strengths... and its limitations. The important thing is to know where it shines, and where it might show its weaknesses.
✅ First and foremost, Dolibarr's appeal lies in its simplicity. Where some ERPs look like gasworks, Dolibarr is quick to learn, ideal for teams without a dedicated IT department. But that's not all...
- free open source solution: no licence fees, free server installation ;
- simple, clear interface, accessible to non-technical users;
- modular structure: each function can be activated on demand;
- fast, low-resource installation;
- An active community, with numerous modules and extensions available;
- customisation possible via development or third-party modules;
- cloud or self-hosted version: you choose how you want to run it.
❌ Despite its qualities, Dolibarr is not without its limitations, particularly for businesses with very advanced needs or complex business processes. Here are the main points to bear in mind:
- limited advanced functionality compared with more robust ERPs (workflows, automation, etc.) ;
- design a little dated compared with some more modern competitors;
- paid or community-based technical support, depending on hosting;
- less suited to large companies or very specific processes;
- custom modules sometimes need to be developed to go further;
- sometimes incomplete documentation on certain advanced functions.
What is ERPNext?
General presentation of ERPNext
ERPNext is a complete open source ERP developed by Frappe Technologies. Designed for SMEs, but also capable of scaling up to more complex structures, it is positioned as a modern alternative to giants such as SAP or Odoo.
Based on the Frappe framework, ERPNext leverages the power of the web, automation and a modular architecture to offer an integrated management solution covering all business processes: CRM, accounting, stock management, projects, human resources, manufacturing... it's all there.
It's an ERP designed for companies that want to go far, with a high level of customisation, a modern interface and an increasingly strong technical community.
Main features of ERPNext
ERPNext is a very comprehensive open source ERP, covering both the standard needs of SMEs and more advanced use cases. But beware: its wealth of functions sometimes means a more technical learning curve than Dolibarr. On the other hand, it offers real functional depth for businesses that want to optimise their internal workflows.
⚒️ Here are the key features of ERPNext:
- advanced accounting: multi-currency, localised charts of accounts, tax reporting ;
- CRM: management of leads, opportunities, campaigns, marketing automation ;
- stock management: warehouses, stock levels, production, batch management;
- project management: Gantt, tasks, milestones, time and cost tracking;
- manufacturing module (MRP): BOM management, production orders, workstations, etc;
- human resources: payroll, clocking in and out, holidays, recruitment, etc;
- e-commerce and POS: online shop integration, checkout management, etc;
- workflow automation: conditional rules, scripts, alerts, etc;
- APIs and integrations: open systems, API documentation, external connectors.
ERPNext
Advantages and disadvantages of ERPNext
With ERPNext, we enter another category of open source ERP: more powerful, more technical, and potentially more scalable. But it also involves strategic choices and more demanding change management.
ERPNext is particularly appealing to ambitious businesses that want a robust, adaptable and ultra-complete open source ERP. Here's what we like:
- very rich functionality: CRM, inventory, MRP, HR, projects, etc. ;
- modern open source with Frappe framework and documented API;
- intuitive, responsive web interface;
- highly customisable via scripts, custom fields, business rules, etc;
- multilingual and multi-company by default;
- active international community and numerous GitHub contributors;
- cloud or self-hosted version as required;
- powerful native automation to streamline internal processes.
❌ But this richness comes at a price: ERPNext is not a 'plug & play' tool. Here are the limitations to be aware of before taking the plunge:
- a steeper learning curve for non-technical users ;
- sometimes complex implementation without technical support
- no free official support (outside the GitHub community);
- documentation can be too technical for business profiles;
- some features are still in their infancy, such as e-commerce tools.
Dolibarr vs ERPNext: compare features
Here's a clear table to see at a glance the key features of each open source ERP.
| Functionality | Dolibarr | ERPNext |
| CRM | Basic but functional | Complete with automation |
| Accounting | Standard (VAT, journals, exports) | Advanced (multi-currency, localisation) |
| Stock management | Multi-warehouse, alerts | Traceability, batches, production |
| Project management | Simple projects, tasks | Gantt, milestones, costs, time tracking |
| Manufacturing module (MRP) | Basic module via extension | Complete (BOM, production orders, planning) |
| Customisation | Modules to be activated, limited customisation | Scripts, business rules, custom fields |
| User interface | Simple, a little dated | Modern, responsive, configurable |
| Workflow automation | Very limited | Powerful native engine |
| Technical support | Community, paid options | Via partners or Frappe Cloud |
| Marketplace / Third-party modules | Yes, rich ecosystem | Yes, GitHub community + Frappe Cloud |
Focus on accounting management
Dolibarr lets you keep basic accounts:
- entries
- bank reconciliation
- VAT declarations, etc.
But as soon as you start talking about multi-currency or inter-company consolidation, the going gets tough.
ERPNext, on the other hand, offers a truly integrated accounting module, with :
- cost centre management
- tax location,
- automation,
- balance sheet generation
- and standard accounting exports.
💡 The verdict: for an SME with simple tax obligations, Dolibarr is all you need. For a company with more sophisticated accounting issues: ERPNext.
Focus on CRM
Dolibarr offers the essential functions :
- prospects
- opportunities,
- follow-up.
It's simple and easy to read, but there's no magic.
ERPNext goes much further:
- lead scoring,
- action automation,
- marketing campaigns
- integration with sales and invoicing.
💡 Verdict: Dolibarr ticks the boxes for basic sales management. ERPNext is much more advanced for managing an entire automated sales cycle .
Focus on stock management
Dolibarr offers :
- multi-warehouse management,
- movement tracking
- level alerts.
Basic but effective for simple flows.
ERPNext adds :
- batch traceability
- series tracking
- unit of measure management,
- and, above all, direct integration with manufacturing.
💡 Verdict: for a company with simple stock flows, Dolibarr is a lightweight solution. If you need traceability or linked production, ERPNext dominates.
Focus on customisation
Dolibarr lets you :
- add fields
- modify certain views
- or create your own modules via extensions,
- but you're limited without PHP skills.
ERPNext has a genuine low-code engine:
- you can create modules,
- scripts
- business rules
- or custom forms without coding (or almost).
💡 The verdict: ERPNext is clearly more flexible and more powerful when it comes to adapting to specific needs.
Focus on automation
Dolibarr offers few native automations: everything is rather manual, or dependent on third-party modules.
ERPNext, on the other hand, has a native automation engine:
- conditional rules
- alerts
- automated actions,
- server/client scripts, etc.
💡 Verdict: if your company wants to automate its workflows, ERPNext is the obvious choice.
Dolibarr vs ERPNext: compare prices
When it comes to open source ERP, the cost isn't always as 'free' as you might think. It all depends on the hosting method, customisation requirements and the level of support you want. Here we take a look at the pricing options for the two solutions.
Price comparison table
| Offer | Dolibarr | ERPNext |
| Entry plan | " Dolibarr Basic - from €14/month :
|
On quotation |
| Advanced plan | " Dolibarr Premium - from €45/month :
|
On quotation |
Dolibarr vs ERPNext: which interface is more intuitive?
A complete ERP is good. An ERP that's easy to use every day is even better. We've compared the two solutions in terms of ergonomics, ease of use and mobile accessibility.
| Criteria | Dolibarr | ERPNext |
| User interface | Sober, functional, a little dated | Modern, clear, responsive |
| Learning curve | Quick for basic functions | More technical, but well guided |
| UI customisation | Limited (menus, activated modules) | Advanced (fields, forms, scripts) |
| Mobile experience | Access possible, responsive correct | Optimised responsive + mobile apps |
| Navigation | Column menu, visible modules | Modular interface with dynamic views |
| Dark mode / accessibility | Not native | Yes, via themes or extensions |
- Dolibarr is designed to be easy to use, even for non-technical users. Essential modules are quickly accessed via a minimalist interface, albeit one that is visually a little dated. For a team that wants to get straight to the point with no frills, it's perfect.
- ERPNext, on the other hand, takes a modern approach: clean design, fluid navigation, customisable views for different roles. But this richness means it takes longer to get to grips with, especially if you activate several modules. The advantage? You can really adapt the interface to each user profile.
📱 On the mobile side, ERPNext has the edge with its native applications (iOS & Android) and well thought-out responsive rendering. Dolibarr, on the other hand, remains accessible via browser, but without an optimised experience.
Dolibarr vs ERPNext: compare integrations
The better an open source ERP integrates with your software stack (CRM, accounting, e-commerce, BI, etc.), the more it becomes a genuine digital foundation for your business. For technical decision-makers, the number of integrations, ease of connection and depth of automation are differentiating factors.
👉 Number of available integrations
- Dolibarr: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
Around thirty integrations available, mainly via external modules or the Dolistore (official marketplace). Possible connections with PayPal, Stripe, WooCommerce, Mailchimp, Google Calendar, etc. But few tools such as Slack, Notion or Zapier.
- ERPNext: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Over 100 integrations listed via the Frappe Apps ecosystem, the GitHub community or custom extensions. Native connections with Shopify, Amazon MWS, Google Workspace, Slack, Trello, Jira, etc. The robust REST API also enables custom connections.
👉 Easy to configure
- Dolibarr: ⭐⭐☆☆☆
Integrations often have to be activated manually and then configured via modules. Some require technical adjustments (e.g. SSO connection, e-commerce gateway). Documentation present but sometimes dated or incomplete.
- ERPNext: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
The majority of integrations require configuration via the web interface or via the Frappe framework. For simple cases, this is well documented. For advanced connections, technical help is almost mandatory, especially when self-hosting.
👉 Customisation and automation
- Dolibarr: ⭐⭐☆☆☆
Limited automation without development. Few native trigger events. Some modules offer simple alerts or rules, but custom development is often required to go further.
- ERPNext: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is one of the system's major strengths. Thanks to Frappe Framework, you can link integrations to complex workflows, create server scripts, trigger conditional events, and synchronise data in real time.
💡 Conclusion
- ERPNext takes a wide lead on integration flexibility and automation power. Its API, webhooks and scripting engine make it a real data orchestrator for businesses looking for connectivity.
- Dolibarr, which is more modest, concentrates on the essentials, with simple, effective connectors for everyday needs. This is sufficient for structures with a limited or stable stack, but less suited to complex technological environments.
When should you choose Dolibarr or ERPNext?
Finding the right ERP is not just a question of functionality or budget. Above all, it's a question of how it fits in with your business reality. Are you a small craft business or a fast-growing industrial SME? Do you need simplicity or advanced automation? The right choice depends on the context of use.
Typical use cases for Dolibarr
Dolibarr is an ideal solution for smaller organisations that need an ERP that's simple, quick to deploy and inexpensive. Its modularity means you can start small, then add building blocks as your business grows. It is particularly suited to businesses without a dedicated IT department.
📌 Here are the usage profiles where Dolibarr stands out:
- VSEs or service SMEs looking to manage invoices, customers, quotes and reminders simply ;
- self-employed or micro-entrepreneurs looking for an all-in-one, lightweight, self-hosted tool;
- associations or NGOs needing to manage members, subscriptions, activities and accounts;
- small commercial businesses with simple stock management and customer tracking;
- early stage start-ups with no ERP budget, looking for a free, functional solution;
- local businesses or craftsmen looking for a 100% French ERP, with community support in French.
Typical use cases for ERPNext
ERPNext is a powerful solution designed for ambitious SMEs, growing start-ups or industrial companies. It shines in contexts where workflows are complex, teams are distributed, and where customisation of business processes is a strategic issue. It's an ERP built to last, provided it's implemented properly.
📌 Here are some use cases where ERPNext is particularly relevant:
- Industrial SMEs needing to manage manufacturing, traceability, quality and maintenance ;
- e-commerce companies managing several sales channels (Shopify, Amazon, marketplaces) ;
- fast-growing companies looking for a scalable, customisable and automatable ERP;
- multi-site or international organisations, thanks to multi-currency and multi-company management;
- software publishers or tech start-ups looking for a development-oriented ERP platform;
- companies with complex internal processes looking to digitise them without relying on a proprietary ERP.
Dolibarr or ERPNext? The right choice depends on your ambitions
Choosing between Dolibarr and ERPNext is not just a question of modules or price. Above all, it's a question of vision, business complexity and level of digital maturity.
If you're looking for a solution that's simple, quick to implement and cost-effective, Dolibarr is an excellent entry point into the world of open source ERP. It perfectly meets the essential needs of VSEs, SMEs and associations, without requiring an army of consultants.
On the other hand, if your company has complex data flows, an international dimension, or a desire for advanced customisation, ERPNext offers a much higher level of flexibility and functional power. It's an ERP made to grow with you...provided you're prepared to invest time (and sometimes resources) in taming it.
🧠 And if you're still hesitating between the two? Try them out. Both offer free versions to install or try online. There's nothing like getting your hands dirty to find out which one really speaks your language.
Article translated from French