In collaboration with the skilled developers at Gravity Wiz, I created a custom Cloud Hosting Cost Calculator using the Gravity Forms plugin. Initially, the project was intended as a standard form submission, where users would select their desired hosting plan, enter relevant details, and submit their info. However, as the project evolved, the client opted to use the calculator as a dynamic, on-page tool without the need for form submission.

To accommodate this shift, I implemented custom CSS to refine the appearance and hide the submit button, creating a polished, user-friendly interface that delivers the results in real-time. The final product met all the client's specifications, and we couldn't be happier with the outcome!

How It Works

AMA Systems required a calculator that would mimic Odoo's pricing model so that users could better understand how cloud hosting costs scale with different configurations. The challenge was to accurately replicate the nuanced pricing structure, which varies based on the type of hosting and user count.

The base pricing starts at $46.60 per user per month for standard cloud hosting or self-hosted options. If users opt for a dedicated Odoo instance hosted on Odoo.sh, additional calculations are needed to factor in specific costs:

• Processors: $57.60 for every 25 users
• Storage: $0.20 per user
• Test Environment: $14.50

These elements are then displayed as a total monthly cost, dynamically updating as users adjust their input.

Behind the Scenes: Advanced Calculation Features

To make this calculator function seamlessly, I leveraged Gravity Forms' Advanced Calculations capabilities, utilizing conditional formulas to adjust pricing based on user inputs and selections. Each field is configured to adapt according to the hosting type and user requirements, allowing the calculator to dynamically adjust the displayed cost in real-time without the need for page refreshes or form submissions.

The result is an intuitive, efficient calculator that streamlines pricing transparency and enhances the user experience for AMA Systems' potential customers.

Check out the calculator here, and feel free to learn more about AMA over at their website.