Why Australian SMEs Benefit from a Local Partner
For many growing Australian businesses, the appeal of Odoo as a flexible, open-source ERP is clear. But when it comes time to implement, there’s a common fork in the road:
“Should we just use an offshore developer, or try doing it ourselves?”
It’s a fair question, especially when upfront cost is front of mind. But before choosing the cheapest route, it’s important to understand the true cost of implementation — and the very real risks of getting it wrong.
The DIY and Offshore Temptation
Odoo is open-source, well-documented, and has an active global developer community. That makes it tempting to roll up your sleeves or hire a freelance developer from abroad. On paper, this can look like a cost-saving move. In practice, it often comes with some hidden—and expensive—pitfalls:
- Time zone drag – Need help? You might be waiting overnight (or longer) to get answers when working with an overseas provider.
- Communication breakdowns – Language and context gaps can lead to misunderstandings that affect how your workflows are built.
- Lack of local knowledge – Australian compliance matters. Getting GST wrong, ignoring Single Touch Payroll, or misinterpreting NDIS rules can land your business in hot water.
- No on-site support – When implementation hits a snag, sometimes there’s no substitute for a face-to-face session to sort it out.
The Cost of Getting It Wrong
Poorly implemented ERP systems are more common than you might think. Businesses have found themselves:
- Stuck with misconfigured accounting systems that clash with their accountant’s requirements
- Rebuilding entire inventory setups because the initial design didn’t scale
- Losing data due to improper migration from tools like Xero or MYOB
In short, cutting corners early can lead to costly rework down the line.
Why Local Expertise Matters
A local implementation partner understands not just Odoo — but how Australian businesses operate. That includes:
- Real-time support during your business hours
- Experience working with your stakeholders — from external accountants to internal team leads
- Familiarity with local business rules like GST, BAS reporting, PAYG, Fair Work compliance, and sector-specific needs like NDIS
An experienced local team can also guide you through change management, offer relevant training, and keep things on track with local project management standards.
According to a recent Olaunch.com industry survey, ERP implementations with certified partners have significantly higher success rates than those done in-house or offshored.
Getting It Right the First Time
Ultimately, an ERP is not just a piece of software — it becomes the backbone of your operations. Choosing a local implementation partner isn’t about overspending. It’s about avoiding the bigger cost of getting it wrong.