Table of Contents

  1. Introduction

  2. Understanding Dolibarr’s Modular System

  3. Module 1: Advanced Permissions

  4. Module 2: CustomFields (ExtraFields Enhancement)

  5. Module 3: Oblyon Theme and UI Tools

  6. Module 4: Document Templates and PDF Customization

  7. Module 5: ECommerce Integration (Prestashop/Shopify/Magento Connectors)

  8. Module 6: Email and SMS Automation

  9. Module 7: CRM Plus or Extended CRM Tools

  10. Module 8: Project Gantt and Time Tracking

  11. Module 9: Stock Movement and Barcode Scanner

  12. Module 10: Data Import/Export Toolkits

  13. Bonus Modules Worth Considering

  14. Choosing the Right Modules for Your Use Case

  15. Managing Updates and Compatibility

  16. Conclusion

1. Introduction

Dolibarr ERP/CRM stands out in the open-source ecosystem for its modular approach, allowing businesses to build a tailored management system that evolves with their needs. But with hundreds of modules available—both native and third-party—it can be overwhelming to know which ones are essential.

This article explores the ten most valuable modules that significantly enhance functionality, user experience, and integration in Dolibarr. Each module is explained in terms of features, configuration tips, and real-world application.

2. Understanding Dolibarr’s Modular System

Dolibarr's architecture is inherently modular. Every feature—from invoicing to project management—exists as a module that can be activated or deactivated via the administration panel.

Modules fall into three categories:

  • Core modules: Built into Dolibarr, often essential.

  • Optional native modules: Not activated by default but included.

  • External modules: Created by third-party developers, available via Dolistore.

You can manage modules via Home > Setup > Modules/Applications.

3. Module 1: Advanced Permissions

Description

The Advanced Permissions module enhances user access control far beyond the standard user/group rights setup. It allows more granular permission configuration at the module, object, or even field level.

Key Features:

  • Restrict access to specific tabs or fields

  • Control view/edit rights per user or user group

  • Use conditional rules based on user attributes

Use Case:

Perfect for businesses with sensitive data that must be compartmentalized (e.g., HR records, finance-only access).

Tips:

  • Always test permission settings in a staging environment

  • Document roles and rights before applying restrictions

4. Module 2: CustomFields (ExtraFields Enhancement)

Description

While Dolibarr supports ExtraFields natively, this module extends the flexibility by allowing field dependencies, validation rules, and advanced data types.

Key Features:

  • Conditional fields (show/hide based on values)

  • Field validation (regex, required)

  • Field templates reusable across objects

Use Case:

Useful when tracking additional business data such as warranty status, contract types, or regulatory compliance tags.

Tips:

  • Avoid overloading forms with unnecessary fields

  • Group related fields into tabs for better UX

5. Module 3: Oblyon Theme and UI Tools

Description

More than a visual facelift, Oblyon improves navigation and usability. It’s a must-have for teams spending long hours in the system.

Key Features:

  • Mobile-responsive layout

  • Horizontal menu navigation

  • Dashboard enhancements

  • Compatibility with most other modules

Use Case:

Ideal for companies using Dolibarr as a daily operational tool across departments.

Tips:

  • Customize the color palette and logo for brand consistency

  • Test module compatibility after each update

6. Module 4: Document Templates and PDF Customization

Description

This module allows you to build, edit, and manage custom templates for invoices, proposals, and shipping documents.

Key Features:

  • Custom header/footer for PDFs

  • Dynamic tags and placeholders

  • Multi-template support

Use Case:

Essential for companies needing professional, branded outputs to clients or partners.

Tips:

  • Use TCPDF tags to control layout logic

  • Keep templates under version control if customized by developers

7. Module 5: ECommerce Integration (Prestashop/Shopify/Magento Connectors)

Description

Synchronize products, orders, and inventory with your online store(s) in real time.

Key Features:

  • Import customer data

  • Sync product catalogs and stock levels

  • Update order statuses automatically

Use Case:

Crucial for businesses running online shops that need back-office accounting and inventory to remain in sync.

Tips:

  • Ensure connector compatibility with your platform version

  • Use a test environment before syncing live data

8. Module 6: Email and SMS Automation

Description

Automate email and SMS sending based on business events (e.g., invoice reminders, status changes).

Key Features:

  • Event-driven templates

  • Email logging and tracking

  • Integration with gateways (Twilio, Sendinblue)

Use Case:

Great for improving customer communication and reducing manual follow-ups.

Tips:

  • Comply with privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR)

  • Use tokens and variables for dynamic content

9. Module 7: CRM Plus or Extended CRM Tools

Description

Takes core CRM features further with lead scoring, sales pipelines, and follow-up automation.

Key Features:

  • Kanban views for opportunities

  • Custom sales funnel stages

  • Sales team reporting dashboards

Use Case:

Ideal for teams managing long sales cycles or multiple opportunity stages.

Tips:

  • Define sales stages clearly in advance

  • Use activity logging to track team performance

10. Module 8: Project Gantt and Time Tracking

Description

Enhances the project management module by introducing Gantt views and detailed time tracking.

Key Features:

  • Drag-and-drop task timelines

  • Time spent vs. time allocated

  • Resource assignment per task

Use Case:

Useful for engineering teams, agencies, or consultancies managing multiple client projects.

Tips:

  • Train team members to log time consistently

  • Align tasks with invoice generation for billable hours

11. Module 9: Stock Movement and Barcode Scanner

Description

Track warehouse operations in real time using barcode devices or mobile apps.

Key Features:

  • Scan-based stock entry and exit

  • Location-level tracking

  • Inventory audit tools

Use Case:

Invaluable for retailers, distributors, and manufacturers managing physical goods.

Tips:

  • Set up barcode formats carefully

  • Schedule regular audits using mobile integration

12. Module 10: Data Import/Export Toolkits

Description

Facilitates large-scale data entry, migration, and reporting through CSV/XML/JSON handling.

Key Features:

  • Scheduled imports/exports

  • Data mapping wizards

  • Import logs and error tracing

Use Case:

Recommended during system onboarding or for recurring third-party data feeds.

Tips:

  • Validate datasets in Excel or Google Sheets first

  • Automate with cron where possible

13. Bonus Modules Worth Considering

  • MultiCurrency: For international businesses

  • LDAP Sync: To integrate enterprise directory

  • Data Security Tools: For encryption and access audits

  • REST API Enhancements: For developers building external apps

  • Chorus Pro Connector: For public-sector invoicing in France

14. Choosing the Right Modules for Your Use Case

Don’t install everything at once. Instead:

  • Start with core business needs

  • Test each module’s impact on performance

  • Avoid overlapping modules that might conflict

  • Review user documentation and forums

15. Managing Updates and Compatibility

  • Always backup before updating

  • Follow Dolibarr’s version release notes

  • Track module compatibility per version

  • Use version control if you customize modules

  • Test on a clone or staging site before applying live

16. Conclusion

Dolibarr's flexibility is one of its strongest assets, and the right set of modules can transform it from a basic ERP to a powerhouse platform tailored to your business. The ten modules listed above are widely regarded as essential for most use cases—from accounting and operations to customer engagement and automation.

Choose wisely, configure carefully, and keep your modules updated. With the right setup, Dolibarr becomes a long-term asset that scales with your organization’s ambitions.