Introduction
Upgrading Odoo to the latest version isn’t just about accessing new features; it’s about keeping your business secure, scalable, and efficient. But without a careful approach, an upgrade can disrupt daily operations, break down custom modules, or even result in data loss.
At ThoughtLogik, we specialize in helping UK businesses upgrade Odoo safely, with minimal downtime and maximum benefit. Here are our top best practices.
1. Understand What’s New in the Latest Version
Before planning an upgrade, explore the version differences:
- Are there major changes to UI or workflows?
- Does it affect your current modules or third-party apps?
- What performance or security improvements are included?
Example: Odoo 17 introduced a new UI and enhanced spreadsheet reporting.
Understanding what is coming helps you assess the value and risks.

2. Audit Your Current System b
Run a full system health check:
- List all installed apps (Odoo official + custom)
- Share success stories from other businesses or internal teams that have benefited from CRM adoption.
- Identify any outdated or deprecated modules
This audit helps you see what will migrate smoothly and what may break down.
3. Back Up Everything
Before you upgrade:
Take a full backup of:
- Database
- File system
- Custom modules
Store them securely. If anything goes wrong, you should be able to restore your exact system.

4. Test the Upgrade in a Staging Environment
Never upgrade directly on your live instance.
Set up a clone of your system in a test server:
- Apply the upgrade their first
- Test all key workflows, reports, and custom modules
- Confirm that your data, UI, and performance are stable
Only move to live after 100% successful testing.
5. Review & Refactor Custom Modules
Odoo’s structure changes between versions. Some of your custom modules may:
- Break due to API changes
- Become obsolete (a new built-in feature might replace them)
- Need code refactoring
Work with experienced Odoo developers (like our team at ThoughtLogik) to patch, refactor, or replace modules before the upgrade.
6. Train Your Team on What’s New
Upgrades often bring up UI or workflow changes. Train your end-users on:
- Any new navigation or layout changes
- Modified fields or forms
- Modified fields or forms
User adoption is key to making the upgrade worthwhile.
7. Plan for Downtime (Even If Minimal)
Even a smooth upgrade may require brief downtime.
Notify your team in advance and schedule off-hours (e.g., evenings or weekends) to minimize disruption.
8. Document the Upgrade Process
Keep a changelog of:
- What was upgraded
- What was fixed or changed
- Any issues encountered
This is valuable for future upgrades and technical audits.

Conclusion
Upgrading Odoo is more than a technical task; it’s a strategic move that helps businesses stay modern and secure. But it requires expert planning, testing, and execution.
At ThoughtLogik, we help UK businesses upgrade Odoo with zero data loss, fully tested modules, and user training that makes the transition smooth and stress-free.
Thinking about upgrading Odoo?
Let’s plan it the right way.
[email protected] , www.thoughtlogik.com
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