Table of Contents

  1. Introduction

  2. Why Integration Matters in ERP Usage

  3. Overview of Dolibarr’s Integration Capabilities

  4. Integrating Dolibarr with CRM Tools

    • 4.1 When to Extend Beyond Dolibarr's Built-in CRM

    • 4.2 Popular CRM Integrations (HubSpot, Salesforce, Zoho)

    • 4.3 API Use Cases and Automation Tools

  5. Dolibarr and E-Commerce Integration

    • 5.1 Synchronizing Products, Orders, and Stock

    • 5.2 WooCommerce, PrestaShop, Magento Integration

    • 5.3 Handling Multi-channel Sales

  6. Accounting Software Integration

    • 6.1 Limitations of Dolibarr's Native Accounting

    • 6.2 Exporting Financial Data to External Systems

    • 6.3 Integration with Sage, QuickBooks, and Xero

  7. Payment Gateway Integrations

  8. Project Management and Collaboration Tools

  9. Inventory and Logistics Integration

  10. Using Middleware and Automation Platforms (Zapier, Make, n8n)

  11. API-First Approach for Custom Integrations

  12. Best Practices for Managing Integrations

  13. Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

  14. Conclusion

  15. Additional Resources

1. Introduction

Dolibarr is a modular, open-source ERP and CRM solution designed for small to medium-sized enterprises. Its lightweight nature and plugin-based architecture make it incredibly flexible. However, in today's digital ecosystem, very few companies rely on a single software platform. Businesses need their ERP to talk to their CRM, their online store, accounting tools, and logistics systems.

This article explores the most effective ways to integrate Dolibarr with other digital tools and business systems—covering both native modules and custom integration strategies. Whether you're a business owner, IT admin, or developer, this guide will help you transform Dolibarr into the digital hub of your enterprise.

2. Why Integration Matters in ERP Usage

Integrating your ERP with other systems is no longer optional. It’s a necessity for several reasons:

  • Reduces manual data entry and human error

  • Improves efficiency across departments

  • Ensures data consistency and accuracy

  • Enables real-time updates between systems

  • Automates workflows, saving time and money

When Dolibarr is used as a siloed tool, its potential is underutilized. But when connected to other platforms—e-commerce, CRM, finance, communication tools—it becomes a powerful command center for your entire organization.

3. Overview of Dolibarr’s Integration Capabilities

Dolibarr is designed with integration in mind. Here are the primary methods available:

  • REST API (v1 & v2): Dolibarr offers a full-featured REST API for programmatic access.

  • Webhooks and Triggers: Some modules support event-driven actions.

  • Third-party connectors: Available via Dolistore for popular platforms like WooCommerce and PrestaShop.

  • File exports/imports: CSV/XML exports for accounting and reports.

  • Middleware support: Compatible with tools like Zapier, Make (Integromat), and n8n.

The versatility of these methods means Dolibarr can integrate with virtually any modern software system.

4. Integrating Dolibarr with CRM Tools

4.1 When to Extend Beyond Dolibarr's Built-in CRM

Dolibarr includes basic CRM functionality such as:

  • Customer contact management

  • Opportunity and prospect tracking

  • Quotations and commercial proposals

  • Event logs and reminders

However, advanced features like lead scoring, marketing automation, email campaign tracking, and AI-driven suggestions often require external CRM tools.

4.2 Popular CRM Integrations

You might consider connecting Dolibarr with one of the following:

  • HubSpot: For inbound marketing and sales automation.

  • Salesforce: For enterprises needing deep customization.

  • Zoho CRM: A mid-tier option with a wide feature set.

Integration can include syncing contacts, opportunities, tasks, and communication logs. These can be achieved through:

  • Zapier or Make workflows

  • Custom API bridges

  • CRON-based synchronization scripts

4.3 API Use Cases and Automation Tools

Example use cases for CRM integration:

  • When a new lead is added to HubSpot, create a third-party record in Dolibarr.

  • When a proposal is validated in Dolibarr, push the opportunity to Salesforce.

  • Automatically log calls or emails on both platforms.

Middleware tools like Zapier, Make, and n8n make it possible to create these links without heavy development.

5. Dolibarr and E-Commerce Integration

One of the most common integration scenarios is between Dolibarr and online stores. Synchronizing product data, inventory levels, and customer orders can save hours of manual work each day.

5.1 Synchronizing Products, Orders, and Stock

Dolibarr modules allow you to:

  • Import orders from e-commerce platforms

  • Sync product catalogs between Dolibarr and your store

  • Automatically update stock levels after sales or restocking

  • Manage multiple warehouses linked to online sales channels

This creates a seamless back-office system.

5.2 WooCommerce, PrestaShop, Magento Integration

Dolibarr supports several e-commerce integrations:

  • DoliWoo: A connector for WooCommerce (WordPress)

  • PrestaShop Connector: Syncs orders, products, and clients

  • Magento integrations: Often built via custom API bridges

These connectors typically support:

  • Real-time order syncing

  • VAT mapping and invoice creation

  • Stock synchronization

  • Customer data unification

5.3 Handling Multi-channel Sales

If you sell on multiple platforms (e.g., WooCommerce, Amazon, Etsy), tools like n8n or Make can funnel all orders into Dolibarr for unified order processing and inventory control.

Example flow:

  1. Order placed on Amazon →

  2. Trigger webhook →

  3. Send order data to Dolibarr →

  4. Adjust stock and create invoice

This setup can be monitored with dashboards inside Dolibarr.

6. Accounting Software Integration

While Dolibarr offers basic accounting features (chart of accounts, journal entries, VAT reports), some businesses require external accounting tools for compliance or complexity.

6.1 Limitations of Dolibarr's Native Accounting

Dolibarr lacks:

  • Advanced tax management (multi-country)

  • Payroll features (outside of modules)

  • Deep general ledger control

  • Regulatory filing and audit features for some jurisdictions

6.2 Exporting Financial Data to External Systems

You can export:

  • Invoices

  • Bank reconciliations

  • Payment reports

  • General ledger entries (CSV or XML)

This data can be imported into tools like:

  • Sage

  • QuickBooks

  • Xero

  • Odoo (Accounting module)

Some modules offer direct API integration, while others rely on scheduled exports.

6.3 Integration with Sage, QuickBooks, and Xero

Many companies use:

  • QuickBooks Online: Use Zapier or Make to sync invoices and payments.

  • Xero: Connect using a middleware tool to send accounting entries and customer data.

  • Sage Business Cloud: Use CSV syncs or hire developers for an API-based sync.

7. Payment Gateway Integrations

Dolibarr supports native and third-party modules for payment processing.

Common integrations include:

  • Stripe

  • PayPal

  • Paybox / PayZen (France)

  • Mollie / PayPlug (EU)

These integrations allow clients to pay invoices online via secure payment links embedded in documents or email notifications. Payment status can update automatically in Dolibarr.

8. Project Management and Collaboration Tools

If you’re using tools like Trello, Asana, or ClickUp, they can be integrated for project tracking.

For example:

  • Sync project milestones between Trello and Dolibarr

  • Log hours worked in Dolibarr and push time entries to ClickUp

  • Use Make to track deadlines and send reminders via Slack

Dolibarr also supports Gantt charts, task dependencies, and resource allocation via advanced modules.

9. Inventory and Logistics Integration

For businesses handling warehousing or drop shipping:

  • Use barcode scanners connected to Dolibarr for inventory management.

  • Integrate with logistics providers (UPS, FedEx, Chronopost) via API to print labels.

  • Sync warehouse software like Odoo Inventory, Zoho Inventory, or ShipStation.

10. Using Middleware and Automation Platforms

Middleware tools simplify integration without code:

  • Zapier: Ideal for small-scale or simple automation

  • Make (formerly Integromat): More flexible with complex logic

  • n8n: Self-hosted alternative, perfect for developers

With these tools, you can create automated flows like:

  • When a Dolibarr invoice is validated, notify your Slack channel

  • Sync Google Sheets customer list to Dolibarr third parties

  • Send SMS via Twilio when a new order is placed

11. API-First Approach for Custom Integrations

For companies with development teams, building custom bridges using Dolibarr's REST API gives full control. The API allows you to:

  • Create, read, update, and delete records (CRUD)

  • Work with third parties, products, invoices, orders, etc.

  • Secure with OAuth tokens and role-based scopes

Custom apps can be written in Python, Node.js, PHP, or Laravel, depending on your stack.

12. Best Practices for Managing Integrations

  • Always use a staging environment to test integrations.

  • Maintain a changelog of automation workflows.

  • Use logging and alerts to track failed API calls.

  • Keep all tools on compatible versions.

  • Ensure data validation and formatting rules between systems.

13. Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

  • Over-synchronization: Leads to duplicates or API throttling

  • Data inconsistency: Due to mismatched field names or types

  • Security risks: From using unsecured webhooks or exposing tokens

  • Unmanaged modules: Poorly written integrations can slow down Dolibarr

Always use well-maintained modules from trusted developers and vendors.

14. Conclusion

Dolibarr is not just a standalone ERP—it’s a central brain for your business. By connecting it with other tools like CRMs, online stores, accounting software, and communication platforms, you unlock its full potential. Integrations empower automation, reduce errors, and allow your team to focus on high-impact tasks.

Whether you choose ready-made modules or build your own bridges using the API, remember that successful integration is about consistency, reliability, and future-proofing. As your business scales, having Dolibarr at the heart of a connected ecosystem will keep your operations agile and efficient.

15. Additional Resources

16. Real-World Use Cases: Integrating Dolibarr Across Industries

To truly understand the power of integration, let's explore how businesses across different sectors are using Dolibarr as the central platform, integrating it with tools suited to their workflows.

16.1 Retail and E-Commerce (B2C)

Challenge: A mid-sized online apparel brand runs its store on WooCommerce and fulfills orders from two warehouses.

Solution:

  • Dolibarr integrates with WooCommerce via the DoliWoo module.

  • Orders sync in real-time into Dolibarr, automatically updating customer records and triggering invoice generation.

  • A barcode scanning plugin updates inventory in Dolibarr as items are packed.

  • The integration with a shipping label API (e.g., ShipStation) enables label creation without switching platforms.

  • Stripe integration allows Dolibarr to automatically record payments and issue receipts.

Result: Order fulfillment is 30% faster, and stock discrepancies have decreased by 80%.

16.2 B2B Services Company

Challenge: A consulting agency uses Zoho CRM for lead generation, Google Calendar for appointments, and Dolibarr for invoicing and project tracking.

Solution:

  • Leads from Zoho CRM are pushed into Dolibarr as third parties once qualified.

  • Projects in Dolibarr are automatically created when deals reach a certain stage.

  • Time tracked via external tools is synced weekly into Dolibarr tasks.

  • Google Calendar events are mirrored in Dolibarr's agenda using Zapier.

Result: Sales and operations are aligned, with 100% visibility on project profitability.

16.3 Manufacturing & Supply Chain

Challenge: A light manufacturing firm handles parts inventory, order processing, and shipping from multiple warehouses.

Solution:

  • Dolibarr integrates with custom inventory software via API to track raw materials and parts.

  • Orders from sales reps are entered through a third-party mobile app, pushing data into Dolibarr.

  • Once orders are confirmed, Dolibarr communicates with a logistics platform via webhooks to schedule pickups.

Result: Workflow automation has reduced order-to-delivery time by 25%.

17. Governance of Integrations and Data Consistency

Integrating systems is not only a technical endeavor but also a strategic one. You need processes in place to ensure data quality, system reliability, and governance.

17.1 Define Ownership

  • Who manages the integration architecture?

  • Who monitors API limits or data sync failures?

A designated IT admin or integration lead should be responsible.

17.2 Versioning and Compatibility

  • Ensure third-party modules are updated and tested when Dolibarr upgrades.

  • Maintain a staging environment to test all changes before deployment.

17.3 Error Handling and Fallbacks

  • Set up notifications for failed syncs (e.g., via Slack or email).

  • Create a rollback strategy for partial imports or sync conflicts.

  • Use retries for failed webhooks or batch jobs.

17.4 Documentation

Maintain detailed records of:

  • APIs used

  • Custom fields mapped between systems

  • Cron jobs or middleware logic

  • Update history of integration modules

This makes maintenance easier and reduces risk when staff changes occur.

18. Preparing for Future Integration Trends

The integration landscape is evolving. Here’s how Dolibarr is expected to keep up:

18.1 Native GraphQL Support

Though REST is dominant, GraphQL support is under discussion in the community, enabling faster queries and leaner data fetching.

18.2 AI-Driven Automation

Expect to see modules and integrations using AI for:

  • Predicting stock reorders

  • Analyzing sales trends

  • Automating customer segmentation

These will rely heavily on good data pipelines between Dolibarr and analytical tools.

18.3 Integration with Blockchain and Web3 Tools

Though still niche, supply chain or certification-based companies may seek integrations with blockchain ledgers. Dolibarr’s open API makes this possible for forward-thinking developers.

19. The Role of the Dolibarr Community in Integration Ecosystem

The Dolibarr community—forums, Dolistore marketplace, GitHub—is an essential asset.

  • Community-developed modules help small businesses integrate with national e-invoicing systems, tax agencies, and logistics providers.

  • The Dolibarr Developer API group discusses enhancements and new endpoints needed for future-proof integrations.

  • Businesses can commission freelancers or agencies to build country- or sector-specific integrations, often open-sourced later.

If you're running Dolibarr in a unique environment (healthcare, education, government), community resources are invaluable for custom needs.

20. Final Thoughts: Building a Truly Connected Dolibarr ERP

Dolibarr’s modular, open-source foundation gives it a unique strength: it can evolve as your business grows. But this power is fully realized only when you turn Dolibarr into a connected platform—a digital hub that receives, processes, and pushes data seamlessly across all areas of your organization.

Whether you're using it for:

  • Sales and CRM

  • Inventory and logistics

  • Accounting and compliance

  • Online sales and payments

…your ability to integrate Dolibarr with the right tools can significantly amplify efficiency, accuracy, and customer satisfaction.

Invest in good integration planning. Document your flows. Test everything in staging. Monitor relentlessly. And most importantly, evolve your integrations as your operations scale.

21. Bonus: Integration Checklist for Your Dolibarr Setup

Here’s a quick checklist before launching or upgrading an integration:

  • ✅ Clear objective and scope for the integration

  • ✅ Compatibility check between Dolibarr version and modules

  • ✅ API access tokens secured and stored

  • ✅ Staging environment for testing

  • ✅ Cron jobs monitored

  • ✅ Backup plan in case of data loss

  • ✅ Logging and alerting in place

  • ✅ Documented user training on changes

  • ✅ Review scheduled every quarter

22. Additional Resources