What is Frappe & ERPNext?
Lesson 1 – What is Frappe & ERPNext
Overview
This lesson explains the meaning, purpose, and difference between Frappe Framework and ERPNext, along with how they connect and when they should be used.
What is Frappe Framework?
Definition
Frappe Framework is a full-stack, metadata-driven web application development framework written in Python, used to quickly build database-driven business applications with minimum code.
In simpler words
• A tool for building web applications
• Saves development time by providing built-in UI, forms, permissions, and API
• Suitable for building custom ERPs, CRMs, HRMS, SaaS products and more
Core Characteristics
| Aspect | Details |
| Framework Type | Full-stack web development |
| Languages | Python (backend), JavaScript (client-side) |
| Database | MariaDB/MySQL |
| Design Style | Metadata-driven using DocTypes |
| Nature | Open Source |
| Purpose | Build business applications rapidly |
Core Concepts to Remember
| Term | Explanation |
| Site | Environment where application and database run |
| App | Collection of features, DocTypes, pages and logic |
| DocType | Schema/structure definition for data and forms |
| Document | A single entry of a DocType |
| Desk | UI for users to access modules and records |
| Bench | CLI tool used to create/manage apps and sites |
Use Cases
• CRM systems
• Learning management systems
• HR and Payroll applications
• Project tracking tools
• ERP-level business solutions
What is ERPNext?
Definition
ERPNext is an open-source Enterprise Resource Planning system built on the Frappe Framework that allows companies to manage Accounts, Inventory, Sales, HR, Payroll, Projects, Manufacturing and other business operations.
Simplified meaning
• A ready-to-use business management software
• Runs on Frappe Framework
• Used by businesses to manage daily operations
Major Modules in ERPNext
| Module | Covers |
| Accounts | Invoices, payments, taxes, ledger |
| Sales | Leads, quotations, orders |
| Purchase | Supplier, purchase orders |
| Inventory | Items, warehouses, stock tracking |
| HR | Employees, attendance, payroll |
| Manufacturing | BOM, work orders, planning |
| CRM | Leads, opportunities, follow-ups |
| Projects | Tasks, timesheets, project tracking |
Relationship Between Frappe and ERPNext
• Frappe is the framework
• ERPNext is the application built on that framework
Another way to see it
• Frappe = Construction material
• ERPNext = A complete building made from that material
Comparison Table
| Feature | Frappe Framework | ERPNext |
| Category | Development framework | ERP system |
| Purpose | Build applications | Manage business operations |
| Primary Users | Developers | Businesses and consultants |
| Technology | Python, JS, MariaDB | Built using Frappe |
| Flexibility | Fully customizable | Customizable but pre-structured |
When to Use Frappe vs ERPNext
| Requirement | Recommended |
| Create custom application | Use Frappe |
| Need ready business ERP | Use ERPNext |
| ERP with custom workflows | ERPNext + Custom Frappe App |
| Building a developer career | Learn Both |
Lesson Summary
• Frappe is a web application development framework
• ERPNext is an ERP built using Frappe
• Use Frappe to build apps from scratch
• Use ERPNext when you need complete business management software
• Learning both is beneficial for development and consulting work
