Artificial intelligence has been taking over the world as of lately. It seems as though every device now comes with “AI features”, although some are more gimmicky than others. It’s no surprise that the general sentiment has become somewhat sceptical towards this fast-developing technology.
However, that’s not to say it should be ignored. ERP software, for one, is showing us how AI can integrate fully into day-to-day business operations – not just automating tasks, but assisting decision-making. The recent release of Odoo 19, in particular, is a turning point for AI in ERP.
From record-keeping to reasoning
Until recently, an ERP’s intelligence was mostly procedural. You entered a transaction and it triggered a rule: an invoice, a stock movement, a report. The logic was fixed, coded by humans.
AI is looking to disrupt that model. Instead of pre-defined rules, machine learning and language learning models allow the systems to interpret intent and summarise meaning across unstructured data. AI can read an email, understand that it’s a supplier complaint, and propose a suitable response or an action. It’s a huge leap from “if-then” logic to “what does this mean?” reasoning.
Why does it matter for businesses?
For most users, the problem with ERP systems is not the lack of capability, but rather accessibility. These systems hold vast amounts of data and powerful tools, which can also be complex and require specialist knowledge. For instance, getting an answer to a specific question may involve figuring out which filters to use in which modules first.
With AI, it can become as simple as asking the question in a prompt, using plain language. The ERP can suggest the right settings to get the reports you need or even respond directly with the necessary data. As such, it democratises insight, making it easier and quicker to access. Less time is spent configuring data and more – actually using it.
Odoo 19 and the arrival of AI Agents
Odoo’s release of the latest version 19 in September marked significant changes in how AI will be used within the ERP system. There is now a brand-new app dedicated specifically to AI, which introduces the concept of AI Agents. These are almost like digital colleagues, assisting you with various tasks, whether it’s fetching information or transcribing a video call. You can create a new Agent as and when needed, giving it a specific purpose (e.g. compliance assistant).
But what makes Odoo’s approach interesting is that AI isn’t just used as a detached robot anymore – it lives inside every module. There are prompt fields available in CRM, Accounting, HR, Marketing, and other modules, ready to help you with area-specific needs. Here are the key features:
- AI Fields: Auto-completes or suggests values as you type;
- Draft with AI: Helps you write or improve emails, text, and summaries;
- Ask AI search: Translates plain English into complex filters;
- Voice transcription and summarisation: Turns spoken recordings into written data;
- Document grounding: The assistants can draw from your internal files, knowledge base, PDF files, and web links for accurate answers;
What this changes inside organisations
Odoo is making AI feel like part of the software, rather than an add-on. It’s like an extra team member, only one that never sleeps or forgets anything. The implications of this could be game-changing:
- Accelerated decision-making: With real-time summaries and insights, managers can act faster, sometimes instantly.
- Processes adapt dynamically: Instead of waiting for a consultant to rewrite workflows, the AI agent can update fields, launch server actions, or propose improvements on the fly.
- Knowledge rediscovered: When internal documents become searchable and understandable by AI, past data can be put to great uses.
- Assisted creativity: AI can support various creative tasks, such as ideas for social media posts, email copy writing, website design improvements, and more.
The human element
Ironically, the rise of AI in ERP might make these systems feel more human than they do now. Tasks that once demanded specialist skills are now becoming a simple conversation. One could say that the role of the ERP user is shifting from operator to collaborator. You’ll still need good data discipline and standardised processes, but the interface will be speaking your language (literally).
Make your business future-ready with Odoo
Odoo 19 gives us a glimpse into a future where artificial intelligence is a part of the team, making operations more efficient than ever before. This technology will continue to develop even further and, we can guarantee, Odoo will be there to pioneer the way.
If this sounds like the future you want to be a part of, we’d love to help you get on board. As an official Odoo ERP partner, we specialise in Odoo implementation, development, maintenance, and training services. Book your first consultation today:
