Configuration vs Customization vs Custom Development
Overview
Not all changes in Odoo carry the same level of risk or long-term impact. Understanding the difference between configuration, customization, and custom development is essential to maintaining a stable and upgradeable system.
Purpose & Use Case
- Make informed decisions about system changes
- Avoid unnecessary technical debt
- Preserve upgrade paths
How It Works in Odoo
- Configuration uses built-in settings and features
- Customization involves minor UI or behavior changes using supported tools
- Custom Development introduces new logic through custom modules or code
Common Issues
- Treating development as configuration
- Overusing customization to avoid process change
Limitations
Custom development introduces long-term maintenance considerations.
When to Consider Professional Assistance
Any requirement involving logic, automation, or cross-module behavior typically requires professional development support.
<p>Related: <a href="/forum/community-help-3/performance-considerations-in-custom-development-138">Performance Considerations in Custom Development</a>, <a href="/forum/community-help-3/security-considerations-in-custom-development-139">Security Considerations in Custom Development</a>.</p>