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Building a Multi-Quotation System in Odoo 15

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In complex sales scenarios, businesses often need to present multiple quotation options to their clients within a single sales order. This comprehensive guide walks you through building a custom multi-quotation module for Odoo 15 that Behind the Scenes: How Multi-Quotations Work allows sales teams to create, manage, and finalize multiple quotation alternatives seamlessly.

Overview of the Multi-Quotation System

The multi-quotation system extends Odoo’s standard sales workflow by introducing the concept of “quotation lines” – separate quotations that exist within a single sales order. Users can create multiple quotation variations, compare them, and ultimately finalize one option while keeping the others for reference.

Behind the Scenes: How Multi-Quotations Work

Understanding the underlying data structure is crucial for implementing this system effectively. Here’s what actually happens behind the scenes:

The Core Approach: Unified Storage with Organized Display

All quotation lines are stored as regular Odoo sale.order.line records – there’s no separate storage mechanism. The magic lies in how we organize and display them:

  1. Single Storage Layer: Every product line from every quotation variation gets stored in the standard sale.order.line table
  2. Linking Mechanism: Each sale order line has a multi_quotation_line_id field that links it to its parent quotation
  3. Visibility Control: The active field determines which lines are currently visible and counted in totals
  4. Organized Presentation: The UI groups these lines by their parent quotation for organized display

Visual Representation of Data Structure

Sale Order SO001
├── Standard order_line (when not in multi-quotation mode)
└── Multi-Quotation Lines (when in multi-quotation mode)
    ├── Quotation SO001-Op1 (x_multi.quotation.line)
    │   ├── Product A (sale.order.line with multi_quotation_line_id = Op1)
    │   ├── Product B (sale.order.line with multi_quotation_line_id = Op1)
    │   └── Product C (sale.order.line with multi_quotation_line_id = Op1)
    ├── Quotation SO001-Op2 (x_multi.quotation.line)
    │   ├── Product X (sale.order.line with multi_quotation_line_id = Op2)
    │   └── Product Y (sale.order.line with multi_quotation_line_id = Op2)
    └── Quotation SO001-Op3 (x_multi.quotation.line)
        ├── Product P (sale.order.line with multi_quotation_line_id = Op3)
        ├── Product Q (sale.order.line with multi_quotation_line_id = Op3)
        └── Product R (sale.order.line with multi_quotation_line_id = Op3)

State Management Through Finalization

When a quotation is finalized:

  • Lines from the selected quotation: active = True (visible and counted)
  • Lines from other quotations: active = False (hidden but preserved)
  • The sale order appears as a normal quotation with only the selected products

This approach provides several advantages:

  • Data Preservation: No quotation data is ever lost
  • Standard Compatibility: Finalized quotations work with all existing Odoo features
  • Audit Trail: Complete history of all quotation options remains accessible
  • Performance: No complex joins or custom reporting needed

Key Features

  • Toggle Mode: Enable/disable multi-quotation functionality per sales order
  • Multiple Quotations: Create unlimited quotation variations within one sales order
  • Product Management: Full product selection with pricing, taxes, and margins
  • Finalization Process: Convert multi-quotation back to standard sales order
  • Clean Interface: Dynamic UI that adapts based on the current mode

System Architecture

The module consists of four main components:

  1. Multi-Quotation Line Model (x_multi.quotation.line)
  2. Quotation Wizard (x_add.quotation.line.wizard)
  3. Finalization Wizard (x_finalize.quotation.wizard)
  4. Extended Sale Order with new fields and behavior

Implementation Guide

Step 1: Creating the Multi-Quotation Line Model

The foundation of our system is the multi-quotation line model that represents individual quotation options:

class MultiQuotationLine(models.Model):
    _name = "x_multi.quotation.line"
    _description = "Multi Quotation Line"
    _rec_name = "order_reference"  # This field will be used for display names
    _order = "sale_order_id, sequence, id"  # Default ordering for records

    # Sequence field allows manual reordering of quotations
    sequence = fields.Integer(string='Sequence', default=10)
    
    # Parent sale order - required link, cascade delete when SO is deleted
    sale_order_id = fields.Many2one("sale.order", required=True, ondelete="cascade")
    
    # Auto-generated reference like "SO001-Op1", "SO001-Op2"
    order_reference = fields.Char("Order Reference", readonly=True, copy=False, default="/")
    
    # User-entered description for this quotation variation
    description = fields.Text("Description")
    
    # One2many relationship - links to sale.order.line records that belong to this quotation
    # copy=False prevents automatic duplication during record copying
    order_lines = fields.One2many(
        "sale.order.line", "multi_quotation_line_id", 
        string="Order Lines", copy=False
    )
    
    # Currency from parent sale order - stored for performance
    currency_id = fields.Many2one(
        "res.currency", related="sale_order_id.currency_id", 
        store=True, readonly=True
    )
    
    # Financial totals - computed from linked order lines
    untaxed_amount = fields.Monetary(
        "Untaxed Amount", currency_field="currency_id",
        compute="_compute_amounts", store=True
    )
    taxes = fields.Monetary(
        "Taxes", currency_field="currency_id",
        compute="_compute_amounts", store=True
    )
    total = fields.Monetary(
        "Total", currency_field="currency_id",
        compute="_compute_amounts", store=True
    )

    @api.depends("order_lines.price_total", "order_lines.price_tax", "order_lines.price_subtotal")
    def _compute_amounts(self):
        """
        Calculate financial totals by summing amounts from all linked order lines.
        This method runs whenever the dependent fields change.
        """
        for rec in self:
            # Sum subtotals (amounts before tax) from all active order lines
            untaxed = sum(line.price_subtotal for line in rec.order_lines)
            # Sum tax amounts from all active order lines
            taxes = sum(line.price_tax for line in rec.order_lines)
            
            # Update the computed fields
            rec.untaxed_amount = untaxed
            rec.taxes = taxes
            rec.total = untaxed + taxes

Key Design Decisions Explained:

  1. Using _rec_name = "order_reference": This tells Odoo which field to use when displaying this record in selection fields or references. Instead of showing “MultiQuotationLine,1”, users see “SO001-Op1”.
  2. copy=False on order_lines: This prevents Odoo from automatically duplicating the relationship when copying records. We handle duplication manually to maintain proper links between quotations and their order lines.
  3. store=True on computed fields: While computed fields are normally calculated on-the-fly, storing them in the database improves performance for frequently accessed totals.
  4. Currency field relationship: By linking to the parent sale order’s currency and storing it, we avoid repeated database queries when displaying monetary amounts.

Step 2: Extending the Sale Order Model

The sale order needs new fields and behavior to support multi-quotation mode:

class SaleOrder(models.Model):
    _inherit = "sale.order"

    # Boolean flag to enable/disable multi-quotation mode for this sale order
    is_multi_quotation = fields.Boolean(
        string="Multi Quotation",
        help="Enable multi quotation mode to use quotation lines",
    )
    
    # One2many relationship to all quotation variations for this sale order
    multi_quotation_line_ids = fields.One2many(
        "x_multi.quotation.line", "sale_order_id", 
        string="Quotation Lines"
    )
    
    # Reference to the quotation that was selected during finalization
    # This field being set indicates the sale order is no longer in multi-quotation mode
    finalized_quotation_line_id = fields.Many2one(
        "x_multi.quotation.line",
        string="Finalized Quotation",
        readonly=True,
        help="The quotation line that was finalized",
    )

    def action_confirm(self):
        """
        Override the standard confirmation method to add multi-quotation validation.
        Prevents users from confirming a multi-quotation order without finalizing first.
        """
        self.ensure_one()  # Ensure we're working with a single record
        
        # Check if this is a multi-quotation that hasn't been finalized yet
        if self.is_multi_quotation and not self.finalized_quotation_line_id:
            raise UserError(_("Please finalize a quotation first before confirming the Sale Order."))
        
        # If validation passes, proceed with standard Odoo confirmation process
        return super(SaleOrder, self).action_confirm()

Key Design Decisions Explained:

  1. Three-State System: The combination of is_multi_quotation and finalized_quotation_line_id creates three distinct states:
    • Standard Mode: is_multi_quotation=False, finalized_quotation_line_id=False
    • Multi-Quotation Mode: is_multi_quotation=True, finalized_quotation_line_id=False
    • Finalized Mode: is_multi_quotation=False, finalized_quotation_line_id=ID
  2. Validation at Confirmation: By overriding action_confirm(), we ensure business rules are enforced at the critical moment when a quotation becomes an order. This prevents incomplete multi-quotations from entering the fulfillment process.
  3. Readonly Finalized Field: Making finalized_quotation_line_id readonly prevents accidental changes after finalization, maintaining data integrity throughout the order lifecycle.

Step 3: Sale Order Line Extension

Sale order lines need to link back to their parent multi-quotation line:

class SaleOrderLine(models.Model):
    _inherit = 'sale.order.line'

    # Controls visibility of this line - hidden lines don't contribute to totals
    # Default True ensures standard behavior for non-multi-quotation orders
    active = fields.Boolean("Active", default=True)
    
    # Foreign key linking this order line to its parent quotation
    # ondelete='cascade': Delete this line if parent quotation is deleted
    # copy=False: Don't duplicate this relationship when copying records
    multi_quotation_line_id = fields.Many2one(
        'x_multi.quotation.line', 
        string='Multi Quotation Line', 
        ondelete='cascade', 
        index=True,  # Database index for faster queries
        copy=False
    )

    @api.depends('product_uom_qty', 'price_unit', 'tax_id', 'discount', 'product_id')
    def _compute_amount(self):
        """
        Override Odoo's standard amount calculation to handle inactive lines.
        Inactive lines (from non-finalized quotations) should contribute $0 to totals.
        """
        # First, run Odoo's standard calculation logic
        super()._compute_amount()
        
        # Then, zero out amounts for inactive lines
        for line in self:
            # Check if this line is inactive (hidden)
            if not getattr(line, 'active', True):
                # Set all monetary fields to zero for inactive lines
                line.update({
                    'price_subtotal': 0.0,  # Subtotal before taxes
                    'price_tax': 0.0,       # Tax amount
                    'price_total': 0.0,     # Total including taxes
                })

Why the Active Field? Understanding Visibility Control

The active field is the cornerstone of how multi-quotations work:

  1. During Multi-Quotation Phase: All lines have active=True but are grouped by quotation for display
  2. After Finalization:
    • Selected quotation lines: active=True (visible, counted in totals)
    • Other quotation lines: active=False (hidden, zero contribution)
  3. Data Preservation: Setting active=False hides lines without deleting them, preserving audit trail

This approach allows the same sale order to seamlessly transition between multi-quotation mode (showing all options organized by quotation) and standard mode (showing only the selected quotation’s products).

Step 4: The Quotation Creation Wizard

The wizard provides the interface for creating and editing quotations:

class AddQuotationLineWizard(models.TransientModel):
    _name = "x_add.quotation.line.wizard"
    _description = "Wizard to add or edit a multi quotation line"

    # Parent sale order - populated from context when wizard is opened
    sale_order_id = fields.Many2one('sale.order', readonly=True, required=True)
    
    # If editing existing quotation, this field holds the quotation being edited
    # If creating new quotation, this remains empty
    quotation_line_id = fields.Many2one('x_multi.quotation.line', readonly=True)
    
    # Transient lines - temporary records that exist only during wizard session
    # These get converted to permanent sale.order.line records when saved
    order_lines = fields.One2many(
        'x_add.quotation.line.wizard.line', 'wizard_id', 
        string='Order Lines'
    )
    
    # User-entered description for this quotation variation
    description = fields.Text(string='Description')
    
    # Computed summary fields - calculated from transient order_lines
    untaxed_amount = fields.Monetary(
        string='Untaxed Amount', currency_field='currency_id',
        compute='_compute_summary'
    )
    taxes = fields.Monetary(
        string='Taxes', currency_field='currency_id',
        compute='_compute_summary'
    )
    total = fields.Monetary(
        string="Total", compute="_compute_summary", readonly=True
    )

    @api.depends('order_lines.price_subtotal', 'order_lines.price_tax')
    def _compute_summary(self):
        """
        Calculate wizard totals by summing transient line amounts.
        This provides real-time feedback as users build their quotation.
        """
        for rec in self:
            # Sum amounts from all transient wizard lines
            untaxed = sum(line.price_subtotal for line in rec.order_lines)
            taxes = sum(line.price_tax for line in rec.order_lines)
            
            # Update computed summary fields
            rec.untaxed_amount = untaxed
            rec.taxes = taxes
            rec.total = untaxed + taxes

Key Design Decisions Explained:

  1. Transient Model Pattern: Wizards use models.TransientModel which automatically cleans up old records. This is perfect for temporary user interfaces that don’t need permanent storage.
  2. Two-Phase Data Model:
    • Phase 1: User works with transient wizard.line recordsPhase 2: On save, transient data gets converted to permanent sale.order.line records
      • This separation provides several benefits:
    • Users can abandon changes without affecting real data
    • Complex validation can happen before committing to database
    • Wizard can have different field requirements than final records
  3. Real-Time Calculations: The _compute_summary method provides immediate feedback as users add products, helping them understand the quotation’s value before saving.

Step 5: Wizard Line Model for Product Selection

The wizard needs its own line model to handle product selection:

class AddQuotationLineWizardLine(models.TransientModel):
    _name = "x_add.quotation.line.wizard.line"
    _description = "Wizard Order Line for Multi Quotation"

    wizard_id = fields.Many2one(
        'x_add.quotation.line.wizard', 
        string='Quotation Wizard', 
        required=True, 
        ondelete='cascade'
    )
    
    # Product fields
    product_id = fields.Many2one('product.product', string='Product')
    name = fields.Text(string='Description')
    product_uom_qty = fields.Float(string='Quantity', default=1.0)
    product_uom = fields.Many2one('uom.uom', string='UoM')
    price_unit = fields.Float(string='Unit Price', required=True)
    
    # Computed totals
    price_subtotal = fields.Monetary(
        string='Subtotal', compute='_compute_line_totals', 
        store=True, currency_field='currency_id'
    )
    tax_id = fields.Many2many('account.tax', string='Taxes')

    @api.depends('product_uom_qty', 'price_unit', 'tax_id', 'product_id')
    def _compute_line_totals(self):
        for line in self:
            if not line.product_id:
                line.price_tax = 0.0
                line.price_subtotal = 0.0
                line.price_total = 0.0
                continue

            taxes = line.tax_id.compute_all(
                line.price_unit, line.currency_id, line.product_uom_qty,
                product=line.product_id,
                partner=line.wizard_id.sale_order_id.partner_id
            )
            line.price_tax = sum(t.get('amount', 0.0) for t in taxes.get('taxes', []))
            line.price_subtotal = taxes.get('total_excluded', 0.0)
            line.price_total = taxes.get('total_included', 0.0)

Step 6: Saving Quotations – The Action Method

The most critical method in the action class is the one responsible for saving the wizard data to the persistent models:

def action_add_line(self):
    """
    Main action method that converts transient wizard data into permanent records.
    This method handles both creating new quotations and editing existing ones.
    """
    # Validation: Ensure user has added at least one product
    if not self.order_lines:
        raise UserError(_("Please add at least one product line."))

    # Prepare data for the multi-quotation line record
    vals = {
        "sale_order_id": self.sale_order_id.id,  # Link to parent sale order
        "description": self.description,          # User-entered description
        # Note: order_reference will be auto-generated in create() method
        # Note: financial totals will be computed automatically from linked lines
    }

    ql = False  # Variable to hold the quotation line record

    # EDIT vs CREATE logic
    if self.quotation_line_id:
        # EDITING EXISTING QUOTATION
        ql = self.quotation_line_id
        ql.write(vals)  # Update existing record with new description
        
        # Remove all existing sale.order.line records for this quotation
        # This ensures a clean slate - we'll recreate all lines from wizard data
        lines_to_unlink = self.env['sale.order.line'].search([
            ('multi_quotation_line_id', '=', ql.id)
        ])
        lines_to_unlink.unlink()  # Permanently delete old lines
        
    else:
        # CREATING NEW QUOTATION
        ql = self.env["x_multi.quotation.line"].create(vals)
        # Link the new quotation to the parent sale order
        self.sale_order_id.write({"multi_quotation_line_ids": [(4, ql.id)]})

    # Convert transient wizard lines to permanent sale.order.line records
    for line in self.order_lines:
        # Prepare data for permanent sale order line
        new_so_line_vals = {
            # Links - connect this line to both sale order and quotation
            "order_id": self.sale_order_id.id,
            "multi_quotation_line_id": ql.id,
            
            # Product information
            "product_id": line.product_id.id,
            "name": line.name,                      # Product description
            "product_uom_qty": line.product_uom_qty, # Quantity ordered
            "product_uom": line.product_uom.id,     # Unit of measure
            "price_unit": line.price_unit,          # Unit price
            
            # Taxes - convert many2many relationship format
            "tax_id": [(6, 0, line.tax_id.ids)] if line.tax_id else False,
            
            # Additional fields that might be set by user
            "discount": line.discount if hasattr(line, 'discount') else 0.0,
            "sequence": line.sequence if hasattr(line, 'sequence') else 10,
        }
        
        # Create the permanent sale order line record
        self.env["sale.order.line"].create(new_so_line_vals)

    # Close the wizard window - user returns to main sale order form
    return {"type": "ir.actions.act_window_close"}

Data Flow Overview:

  1. Validation Step: Verify that the user filled in the necessary data
  2. Creating Quotation Record: Generate or update the x_multi.quotation.line record
  3. Delete Existing Records: In case of edits, erase all the existing sale.order.line records
  4. Convert Lines: Change each transient wizard line into a permanent sale.order.line
  5. Connect: Check that all new lines have been properly linked to both the sale order and the quotation
  6. Remove Unnecessary Items: The wizard is closed, and the user goes back to the main interface

Reasoning About Design Choices:

  1. Complete Replacement Workflow: In the case of editing, we purge all the existing lines and reestablish them from the wizard data. This way is less complicated than trying to match, update, and sync individual lines.
  2. A Two-Step Linking Process: Each sale.order.line is equipped with two foreign keys:
    • order_id: Connects to the main sale order (standard Odoo field)
    • multi_quotation_line_id: Connects to the specific quotation (our custom field)
  3. Many2many Tax Format: The [(6, 0, ids)] format is Odoo’s method of completely replacing a many2many relationship with the given list of records.

Step 7: The Finalization Process

When users are ready, they pick one quotation to finalize:

class FinalizeQuotationWizard(models.TransientModel):
    _name = "x_finalize.quotation.wizard"
    _description = "Wizard to finalize a Multi Quotation"

    sale_order_id = fields.Many2one("sale.order", string="Sale Order", required=True, readonly=True)
    finalized_line_id = fields.Many2one(
        "x_multi.quotation.line",
        string="Finalized Quotation",
        required=True,
        domain="[('id', 'in', multi_quotation_line_ids)]"
    )

    def action_finalize(self):
        self.ensure_one()
        sale_order = self.sale_order_id
        finalized_line = self.finalized_line_id

        # Get all sale order lines
        all_so_lines = sale_order.order_line
        multi_quotation_lines = all_so_lines.filtered(
            lambda line: line.multi_quotation_line_id
        )
        
        # Identify finalized vs non-finalized lines
        lines_from_finalized = multi_quotation_lines.filtered(
            lambda line: line.multi_quotation_line_id == finalized_line
        )
        non_finalized_lines = multi_quotation_lines - lines_from_finalized

        # Hide non-finalized lines
        if non_finalized_lines:
            non_finalized_lines.write({'active': False})

        # Ensure finalized lines are active
        if lines_from_finalized.filtered(lambda l: not l.active):
            lines_from_finalized.write({'active': True})

        # Update sale order
        sale_order.write({
            'finalized_quotation_line_id': finalized_line.id,
            'is_multi_quotation': False,
        })

        return {
            'type': 'ir.actions.act_window',
            'name': 'Sale Order',
            'res_model': 'sale.order',
            'res_id': sale_order.id,
            'view_mode': 'form',
            'target': 'current',
        }

User Interface Design

Dynamic Tab Visibility

The XML views implement conditional visibility to allow the user to see or hide tabs that are relevant:

<xpath expr="//page[@name='order_lines']" position="attributes">
    <attribute name="attrs">{'invisible': [('is_multi_quotation', '=', True)]}</attribute>
</xpath>

<page string="Quotation Lines" name="quotation_lines"
      attrs="{'invisible': [('is_multi_quotation', '=', False)]}">
    <button name="%(action_add_quotation_line_wizard)d"
            type="action"
            string="Add Quotation"
            class="btn-primary"/>
    
    <field name="multi_quotation_line_ids" nolabel="1">
        <tree string="Quotation Lines">
            <field name="order_reference"/>
            <field name="description"/>
            <field name="untaxed_amount" string="Subtotal"/>
            <field name="taxes"/>
            <field name="total"/>
            <button name="action_open_wizard" type="object" 
                    string="" icon="fa-pencil"/>
        </tree>
    </field>
</page>

Wizard Interface

The wizard utilizes the section_and_note widget of Odoo for a clean interface in choosing a product:

<field name="order_lines" widget="section_and_note_one2many">
    <tree editable="bottom" create="true" delete="true">
        <control>
            <create name="add_product_control" string="Add a line"/>
            <create name="add_section_control" string="Add a section" 
                    context="{'default_display_type': 'line_section'}"/>
        </control>
        
        <field name="product_id" string="Product"/>
        <field name="name" string="Description"/>
        <field name="product_uom_qty" string="Quantity"/>
        <field name="price_unit" string="Unit Price"/>
        <field name="price_subtotal" string="Subtotal" readonly="1"/>
    </tree>
</field>

Data Flow and State Management

State Transitions

  1. Draft Multi-Quotation: is_multi_quotation=True, finalized_quotation_line_id=False
  2. Finalized: is_multi_quotation=False, finalized_quotation_line_id=ID
  3. Back to Draft: Erase the ID of the finalized state, switch back to multi-quotation mode

Data Relationships

SaleOrder
├── multi_quotation_line_ids (One2many)
│   └── MultiQuotationLine
│       └── order_lines (One2many)
│           └── SaleOrderLine (with multi_quotation_line_id link)
└── finalized_quotation_line_id (Many2one)

Advanced Features

Automatic Reference Generation

Every single quotation is assigned a unique reference automatically:

@api.model
def create(self, vals):
    if not vals.get("order_reference") or vals.get("order_reference") == "/":
        so_id = vals.get("sale_order_id")
        if so_id:
            sale_order = self.env["sale.order"].browse(so_id)
            prefix = f"{sale_order.name}-Op"
            existing_refs = sale_order.multi_quotation_line_ids.filtered(
                lambda m: m.order_reference and m.order_reference.startswith(prefix)
            ).mapped("order_reference")
            
            indices = []
            for ref in existing_refs:
                try:
                    idx = int(ref.replace(prefix, ""))
                    indices.append(idx)
                except ValueError:
                    continue
            
            next_idx = (max(indices) + 1) if indices else 1
            vals["order_reference"] = f"{prefix}{next_idx}"
    
    return super(MultiQuotationLine, self).create(vals)

Copy and Duplication Handling

The proper duplication of the sales order ensures that the copied data is maintained error-free:

def copy(self, default=None):
    if default is None:
        default = {}
    
    original_id = self.id
    duplicated_mql = super(MultiQuotationLine, self).copy(default)

    # Copy all child lines including inactive ones
    all_children = self.env['sale.order.line'].with_context(active_test=False).search([
        ('multi_quotation_line_id', '=', original_id)
    ])
    
    for old_line in all_children:
        line_vals = old_line.copy_data()[0]
        line_vals.update({
            'order_id': duplicated_mql.sale_order_id.id,
            'multi_quotation_line_id': duplicated_mql.id,
            'active': True,
        })
        self.env['sale.order.line'].create(line_vals)

    return duplicated_mql

Best Practices and Considerations

Performance Optimization

  1. if you have some calculations which you need to access very often, then you should calculate them using computed fields with store=True
  2. Index foreign key fields such as multi_quotation_line_id
  3. within loop, minimize the number of database queries by using recordset operations

Data Integrity

  1. Use ondelete=”cascade” to ensure that there won&#039;t be any orphan references
  2. Put copy=False on those fields which are not eligible for duplication
  3. Implement the right validation in the corresponding action methods

User Experience

  1. Dynamic UI that changes according to the current mode
  2. One can find visual cues very easily for those quotations which have been finalized
  3. The workflow is very logical and it makes the transition from creation to finalization very smooth

Testing and Validation

Key Test Scenarios

  1. Creating multi-quotation with a variety of product lines
  2. Editing quotations and checking if data is still there
  3. Changing the state by finalizing the quotation and then verifying that state has actually changed
  4. Copying sales orders and checking if the copies are really done in the right way
  5. Going back to draft and verifying the multi-quotation mode has been restored

Validation Points

  • The point at which the action of confirming without finalization has to be prevented
  • Only active lines should be allowed to contribute the totals
  • Proper reference generation should be confirmed
  • Set up different tax configurations and then verify

Conclusion

This system of multi-quotation allows complex sales scenarios that do not violate the basic Odoo workflow patterns to be created in a very stable way. Plus, the modular conception makes it very convenient to extend and customize depending on your business needs.

Success really depends on a solid comprehension of data relationships, proper state management, and giving the user a fluid experience which lets them easily move the quotation creation and finalization process forward.

Adherence to this manual would make it so that you would have a multi-quotation system that not only works really well with the existing sales module of Odoo but also gives you the flexibility for current sales processes.

A Comprehensive Guide to Cloud Backup Solutions

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In today’s digital world, data is crucial for small businesses. Whether it’s customer details or financial records, protecting this data is essential. But what happens if something goes wrong? Hardware failures, human error, or cyberattacks can lead to data loss in an instant. That’s where cloud backup comes in. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cloud backup solutions, making it easy for small business owners to protect their data.

Basically, we’re going to talk about:

  • Why cloud backup is important?
  • Understanding your backup needs
  • Types of cloud backup solutions
  • Cloud backup services pricing models
  • Cloud backup solution pricing guide
  • Choosing the right cloud backup solution
  • Putting your backup plan into action

 

Why Cloud Backup is Important

Let’s face it, managing complex backup systems isn’t feasible for every small business. Traditional methods like tape backups are outdated and unreliable. That’s where cloud backup shines. It’s affordable, reliable, and accessible. By storing your data securely in the cloud, you can ensure it’s safe and easily retrievable whenever you need it.

Understanding Your Backup Needs

Before jumping into cloud backup, take a moment to assess your needs. What data do you need to protect? How often does it change? Are there any rules you have to follow? Understanding your requirements will help you choose the right cloud backup solution for your business.

Types of Cloud Backup Solutions

Now, let’s dive into the different types of cloud backup solutions out there. Each offers unique features and benefits to meet the diverse needs of businesses. Here’s a quick rundown:

  • File-Level Backup: Perfect for backing up individual files and folders, ideal for businesses with relatively small data volumes or those that prioritize selective backup of critical files.
  • Image-Based Backup: Captures entire snapshots of systems or servers, great for disaster recovery.
  • Application-Specific Backup: Tailored for specific applications or databases.
  • Incremental Backup: Efficiently backs up only data that has changed since the last backup. It’s efficient for businesses with large data sets and frequent changes.
  • Continuous Data Protection (CDP): Saves every change made to data in real-time, ensuring minimal data loss.
  • Hybrid Cloud Backup: Combines on-premises backup infrastructure and cloud storage for flexibility and redundancy.
  • Archival Backup: Designed for long-term retention of data that is rarely accessed but must be retained for compliance or historical purposes. It optimizes storage costs by moving infrequently accessed data to lower-cost storage tiers.

Cloud Backup Services Pricing Models

Cloud backup services offer various pricing models to cater to the diverse needs of businesses. Here’s an overview of the different pricing models you might encounter:

  • Pay-As-You-Go (PAYG): With this model, you only pay for the storage and resources you actually use. It’s flexible and great for businesses with fluctuating data storage needs.
  • Storage-based Pricing: Here, the cost is based on how much storage space you’re using. It’s a straightforward way to budget for your backup services.
  • Data Transfer or Bandwidth Pricing: Businesses are charged based on how much data they’re transferring to and from the cloud backup service. This is important for businesses with high data transfer needs.
  • Per User Pricing: With this model, you pay a fixed rate for each user accessing the backup service. It’s a way to make sure costs match up with how many people are using the service.
  • Device-based Pricing: This pricing model is determined by how many devices are connected to the backup service. It’s useful for businesses with multiple devices that need backup.
  • Backup Frequency Pricing: Some services offer different pricing tiers based on how often you need to back up your data. This lets businesses choose a plan that fits their backup schedule.
  • Enterprise and Custom Pricing: Larger enterprises can negotiate custom pricing plans that match their specific needs, including extra features and dedicated support.
  • Tiered Pricing: Providers offer different pricing tiers with varying features and storage capacities. This lets businesses pick the tier that suits their needs and budget best.
  • Retention-based Pricing: The cost here depends on how long your data is kept in the backup system. Longer retention periods usually mean higher costs.
  • Committed Usage Discounts: If a business commits to using the service for a certain amount over a set period, they might get discounts or special pricing from the provider.
  • Free Tier with Paid Upgrades: Some providers offer a free tier with limited features or storage. Businesses can then choose to upgrade to paid plans for more features and storage.
  • Hybrid Pricing: This pricing structure is for businesses using both on-premises and cloud-based backup solutions. It’s designed to accommodate both environments.
  • Data Tiering: Providers might offer pricing based on different tiers of data. This means different pricing for different categories of data based on things like how old it is or how often it’s accessed.

Cloud Backup Solution Pricing Guide

When organizations are looking into cloud backup solutions, there are a few key factors they need to consider to make sure they find the right fit. Let’s break it down:

Organization Size

The size of your organization matters a lot when it comes to pricing for a cloud backup solution. Bigger organizations tend to have more data and more complex backup needs, which might mean they need to go for higher-tier plans or work out custom pricing. On the flip side, smaller organizations might find more affordable options with scaled-down plans that still offer the basics.

Tool Features

The features and functions a cloud backup solution offers directly affect how much it’ll cost you. It’s important to think about what you really need from your backup system. Here are some common features to look for:

  • Data Deduplication: Helps save on storage costs by getting rid of duplicate data.
  • Encryption: Keeps your data safe while it’s being moved around or stored.
  • Automated Backup Scheduling: Makes sure your backups happen regularly without you having to think about it.
  • Versioning: Lets you go back to previous versions of files if you need to.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: Makes sure your backups work across different operating systems and devices.
  • Disaster Recovery: Gets you back up and running fast if something goes really wrong.

It’s smart to think about which of these features are most important to you and make sure you’re not paying for stuff you won’t use.

Scalability

Being able to scale up or down easily is super important. Your backup needs might change over time, so you want a solution that can grow with you. Look for pricing models that match how much you’re actually using, like pay-as-you-go or tiered pricing. That way, you’re not paying for more than you need.

Hidden Costs

Watch out for sneaky extra charges! Sometimes what looks like a great deal at first can end up costing you more in the long run because of things like data retrieval fees, bandwidth usage charges, or extra costs for technical support. Make sure you read all the fine print and understand exactly what you’re paying for.

Choosing the Right Cloud Backup Solution

With a lot of providers out there, choosing the right one can be hard. Here’s a few things to consider:

  1. Security: Look for providers with robust security measures to keep your data safe.
  2. Reliability: Choose a provider with a good track record of uptime and data availability.
  3. Scalability: Ensure the provider can accommodate your business’s growth without any hassle.
  4. Ease of Use: Opt for a user-friendly interface that makes backup and recovery simple.

Putting Your Backup Plan into Action

Once you’ve chosen a provider, it’s time to put your plan into action. Stick to a regular backup schedule, keep multiple copies of your backups, and test your recovery processes regularly. Setting up monitoring alerts will help you catch any issues before they become major problems.

Acugence: Your IT Partner

At Acugence, we understand the challenges small businesses face when it comes to IT infrastructure. That’s why we offer comprehensive IT solutions, including cloud backup services. Partner with us and let us handle the tech stuff while you focus on growing your business.

Ready to protect your data with cloud backup? Get in touch with us today and let’s get started!

Empowering Employees Through Security Awareness

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In today’s hyper-connected world, cybersecurity stands as a critical pillar for businesses of all sizes. With cyber threats evolving in complexity and frequency, organizations must prioritize safeguarding their data, systems, and networks. A key strategy in this battle is instilling a culture of security awareness among employees. In this post, we’ll explore the significance of security awareness training and offer actionable tips for implementing robust training programs in your organization.

Understanding Cybersecurity and Its Business Imperative

The term “Cybersecurity” is used to describe the process of securing electronic systems, networks, and data from malicious attacks. In the current business ecosystem, where sensitive information is stored and transmitted digitally, cybersecurity plays a critical role in safeguarding confidential data, maintaining business continuity, and preserving the trust of customers and stakeholders.

Delving into Security Awareness Training

Security awareness training proactively educates employees on cybersecurity risks, threats, and best practices. Unlike traditional security measures, which often focus solely on technology, security awareness training empowers employees to identify and respond to potential threats. By nurturing a culture of security consciousness, organizations can significantly reduce the likelihood of security breaches.

Recognizing the Importance of Cybersecurity Training Programs for Employees

Cybersecurity training programs for employees serve several vital purposes:

  • Mitigating Risks: Trained employees are better equipped to identify and mitigate security threats, such as phishing scams and malware attacks.
  • Ensuring Compliance: Many industry regulations and data protection laws mandate security awareness training to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.
  • Promoting Accountability: Fostering a culture of security awareness encourages employees to take ownership of safeguarding sensitive information and adhere to cybersecurity protocols.

Steps to Implementing Security Awareness

Here are some key steps for implementing effective security awareness training programs:

  • Assess Training Needs: Identify specific cybersecurity risks and training requirements within your organization.
  • Develop Tailored Content: Create engaging training materials tailored to employees’ roles and skill levels.
  • Utilize Interactive Methods: Employ various training methods, such as online courses, workshops, simulations, and phishing tests, to keep employees engaged and reinforce learning.
  • Promote Ongoing Learning: Cyber threats evolve rapidly, so it’s essential to provide regular updates and refresher training to keep employees informed about emerging threats and best practices.
  • Measure Effectiveness: Evaluate the effectiveness of your training programs through assessments, quizzes, surveys, and metrics such as click-through rates on phishing simulations and incident response times.

Top 10 Security Awareness Training Topics

When designing training programs, cover these essential topics:

  1. Phishing Awareness:

    Phishing is a common tactic used by cybercriminals to deceive individuals into revealing sensitive information or clicking on malicious links. Training on phishing awareness educates employees on how to recognize phishing emails, messages, or phone calls and respond appropriately to avoid falling victim to such attacks.

  2. Password Security:

    Passwords are often the first line of defense against unauthorized access to accounts or systems. Training on password security covers best practices for creating strong, unique passwords, securely storing, and managing passwords, and understanding the importance of regular password updates and multi-factor authentication (MFA) where possible.

  3. Social Engineering Tactics:

    Social engineering involves manipulating individuals into revealing confidential information or compromising security through certain actions. Training on social engineering tactics educates employees on common techniques used by attackers, such as pretexting, baiting, and tailgating, and provides strategies for identifying and thwarting social engineering attempts.

  4. Malware Recognition and Prevention:

    Malware, including viruses, worms, ransomware, and spyware, poses a significant threat to organizational security. Training on malware recognition and prevention teaches employees how to identify signs of malware infection, such as unusual system behavior or suspicious email attachments, and how to take proactive measures to prevent malware attacks, such as installing antivirus software and keeping systems updated.

  5. Data Protection and Privacy:

    Data protection and privacy training focuses on the importance of safeguarding sensitive information and complying with relevant data protection laws and regulations, such as GDPR and HIPAA. Topics may include data classification, secure data handling practices, encryption techniques, and reporting requirements for data breaches.

  6. Secure Remote Work Practices:

    With the rise of remote work, it’s essential to educate employees on secure remote work practices to mitigate security risks associated with accessing company resources from outside the corporate network. Training topics may include secure VPN usage, secure Wi-Fi connections, device encryption, and safe handling of confidential information in remote environments.

  7. Physical Security Measures:

    Physical security training covers measures to protect physical assets, such as office premises, equipment, and sensitive documents, from unauthorized access, theft, or damage. Topics may include access control procedures, visitor management, surveillance systems, and emergency response protocols.

  8. Mobile Device Security:

    Mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, are increasingly targeted by cybercriminals due to their widespread use and access to sensitive data. Training on mobile device security educates employees on best practices for securing mobile devices, such as enabling device encryption, setting up screen locks, and avoiding unsecured Wi-Fi networks.

  9. Incident Response Procedures:

    Incident response training prepares employees to effectively respond to security incidents, such as data breaches, malware infections, or phishing attacks. Topics may include incident reporting procedures, escalation paths, containment measures, and communication protocols to minimize the impact of security incidents on the organization.

  10. Regulatory Compliance Requirements:

    Compliance training ensures that employees understand their responsibilities and obligations regarding regulatory compliance in their respective roles. Topics may include industry-specific regulations, such as PCI DSS for payment card data security or SOX for financial reporting, as well as general data protection laws and privacy regulations applicable to the organization’s operations.

Best Practices for Security Awareness Training

To maximize impact, adhere to these best practices:

  • Customize Content: Customize training materials to address cybersecurity risks and challenges faced by your organization.
  • Engage Leadership: Secure leadership support to underscore the importance of security awareness.
  • Promote a Positive Culture: Create an environment where employees feel comfortable reporting incidents.
  • Offer Incentives: Recognize and reward employees for participation and adherence to security protocols.
  • Provide Feedback: Offer constructive feedback to foster continual improvement.

In conclusion, building a culture of security awareness is critical in safeguarding against cyber threats. By investing in comprehensive training programs and adhering to best practices, organizations can empower employees to become proactive guardians against cyber threats. Remember, cybersecurity is a collective responsibility, and a well-trained workforce serves as the first line of defense.

At Acugence, we provide tailored cybersecurity consultation services to meet your organization’s needs. To learn more about our cybersecurity services, contact us today.

Self-Service for Employees: Benefits for Your Organization

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In today’s fast-paced business world, companies are always on the lookout for ways to streamline operations and boost productivity. One effective solution gaining popularity is Employee Self-Service (ESS) systems. Let’s dive into what ESS is, how it works, essential features to consider, and the benefits it offers. Plus, we’ll highlight how our OfficeKit HR software incorporates ESS.

What is Employee Self-Service?

Employee Self-Service (ESS) puts power in employees’ hands by allowing them to manage various aspects of their job without constant HR involvement. From updating personal details to checking pay stubs and requesting time off, ESS makes it easy, all through a user-friendly interface.

What is an Employee Self-Service Portal?

Think of an Employee Self-Service portal as a one-stop shop for employees to access ESS features. It’s like their own secure online hub where they can manage their info, submit requests, and communicate with HR hassle-free.

How Do Employee Self-Service Portals Work?

These portals seamlessly integrate with your company’s existing HR systems. Employees simply log in with their credentials to access a range of features tailored to their needs, like updating personal info or checking their schedules.

Key Features of ESS Systems

When choosing an ESS system, keep an eye out for features such as:

  1. Personal Information Management: Allows employees to update their contact details, emergency contacts, and other personal info.
  2. Time and Attendance Tracking: Allowing them to view work schedules, clock in/out, and request time off with ease.
  3. Payroll and Benefit Management: Giving employees access to pay stubs, tax forms, and allowing them to enroll and manage benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and flexible spending accounts.
  4. Performance Management: Helping employees set goals, track their progress, and participate in performance reviews.
  5. Communication Tools: Providing channels to submit queries, and receive updates from HR.

Benefits of Implementing ESS Systems

Implementing an ESS system offers numerous benefits, including:

  1. Efficiency: By automating tasks, you reduce the workload on HR.
  2. Engagement: Empowering employees fosters a sense of ownership and engagement.
  3. Accessibility: Available anytime, anywhere, ESS makes life easier for remote and on-the-go employees.
  4. Data Accuracy: With employees updating their info directly, you can say goodbye to errors.
  5. Cost Savings: Less paperwork means lower costs and more time for strategic initiatives.
  6. Compliance and Security: Rest easy knowing your data is secure and compliant with regulations.

OfficeKit HR’s Employee Self-Service Feature

At Acugence, we understand the importance of empowering employees and simplifying HR processes. Our HR software, OfficeKit HR’s ESS feature is designed to simplify HR processes and put employees in the driver’s seat. From managing personal info to accessing pay stubs and requesting time off, it’s all there on one secure platform. Plus, it’s easy to use and keeps your data safe.

In conclusion, implementing an Employee Self-Service system can revolutionize your business. With the right system in place, you can empower your workforce, boost productivity, and stay ahead of the competition. Ready to see the difference OfficeKit HR can make for your business? Contact us for a demo today!

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