Getting Started with ERPNext
Beginning with ERPNext does not have to be daunting. Complete these easy steps to implement your system, train your staff, and go live with confidence—particularly with the new features in ERPNext v16 making it even easier.
Step 1: Know What You Require
Outline Your Major Features
Consider what your business actually requires. Do you need inventory tracking, accounting, employee management, or complete manufacturing?
ERPNext v16 organises these on a Desktop of module icons, where each module has its own sidebar, workspace and dashboard.
Set Clear Objectives
What do you want to achieve with ERPNext? Improved efficiency? Reduced paperwork? Complete visibility of your business? Make the decision beforehand.
Step 2: Choose How You Want to Utilize ERPNext
You have two choices:
Cloud Hosting (Easy and Quick)
Sign up on Frappe Cloud or with a reliable hosting provider. No servers or backups to manage—everything is taken care of for you.
Self-Hosting (Full Control)
If you already have an IT team or developer, install ERPNext on your server yourself. You’ll have more control and flexibility.
Tip: Frappe Bench can host several sites on one server, and official Docker images (frappe_docker) are available for container-based installs.
Step 3: Set Up ERPNext
- Cloud: Upon signup, go through the guided setup wizard.
- Self-Hosted: Deploy the official ERPNext install guide for production or development environment.
Step 4: Set up the Basics
Create Your Admin Profile
Establish your system manager (admin) account and protect it.
Company Profile Setup
Enter your company name, address, GST/NTN/CRN/VAT, and base currency.
Set up Your Modules
Choose the modules you require (Accounting, Sales, HR, etc.). In v16, each module sidebar has a Getting Started link with onboarding steps, and you can hide modules you do not use from the Desktop.
Step 5: Train and Go Live
User Training
Train your staff before going live. Use the Help Videos, Docs built within, or book sessions. The Getting Started onboarding in each module sidebar guides users while working.
Live Launch
Once your team is ready and the system is tested, switch to live mode. Monitor everything closely for the first few weeks and fix any small issues quickly.
Bonus Tips for Version 16 Users:
- Use Dashboards, Dashboard Charts and Number Cards to create role-based dashboards for Sales, Purchase, Finance, and more.
- Explore workflow improvements that help automate approvals and notifications.
- Try Kanban Boards, especially helpful in CRM, Projects, and HR.
Final Note
