How to Create a Module Using the Scaffold Command in Odoo

Abid Patel
09-Oct-2024 Updated : 09-Oct-2024

Learn how to create a module using the scaffold command in Odoo with this detailed guide. Simplify module development with Odoo's powerful tools.

How to Create a Module Using the Scaffold Command in Odoo

Odoo is a versatile and feature-rich ERP system that allows developers to build custom modules to extend its functionality. One of the quickest ways to start creating a custom module in Odoo is by using the scaffold command. The scaffold command generates the necessary structure and boilerplate code for your module, making it easier to focus on adding functionality rather than setting up the module from scratch. In this blog, we will explore how to create a module using the scaffold command in Odoo.

What is the Scaffold Command in Odoo?

The scaffold command is a powerful tool in Odoo's command-line interface (CLI) that helps you generate a module skeleton with all the essential files and directories. This includes the model, view, security, and manifest files required to get started with module development. Using this command allows you to avoid manually creating these files and ensures that your module follows Odoo’s best practices.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Module Using Scaffold Command

Follow these steps to create a module using the scaffold command in Odoo:

Step 1: Access Odoo Command Line

To begin, you need access to the Odoo server’s command line. You can do this via SSH if your Odoo instance is hosted on a remote server, or directly through the terminal if it's installed locally. Ensure you are in the environment where Odoo is installed and properly configured.

Step 2: Run the Scaffold Command

The next step is to run the scaffold command to generate your module’s structure. The general syntax of the scaffold command is as follows:

Command

odoo-bin scaffold <module_name> <path_to_custom_addons>

For example, if you want to create a module named "custom_module" in the custom addons directory, run the following command:

Command

odoo-bin scaffold custom_module /path/to/odoo/custom/addons

This command will create a new directory called `custom_module` inside the specified addons path, along with the necessary subdirectories and files.

Step 3: Understand the Generated Structure

Once the scaffold command completes, a module structure will be generated. Below is a breakdown of the important files and directories:

  • ▹ __init__.py: This file initializes the module’s Python package and defines which Python files will be loaded.
  • ▹ __manifest__.py: This is the module's manifest file. It contains metadata such as the module's name, description, version, dependencies, and more.
  • ▹ models/: This directory contains Python files for defining the module's data models.
  • ▹ views/: This directory contains XML files that define the module's user interface (e.g., forms, list views).
  • ▹ security/: This directory holds access control rules and security configurations.

Here is an example of the basic structure generated by the scaffold command:

Module

custom_module/
    ├── __init__.py
    ├── __manifest__.py
    ├── models/
    │   └── __init__.py
    ├── views/
    │   └── custom_module_views.xml
    ├── security/
    │   └── ir.model.access.csv

Step 4: Customize the Module

Now that the basic module structure is in place, you can start customizing your module by adding functionality. Here are a few important steps to follow:

  • ▹ Edit the Manifest: Open the `__manifest__.py` file and update the metadata. This includes setting the module's name, version, and description, as well as listing any dependencies your module might have.
  • ▹ Define Models: Add Python classes in the `models/` directory to define your data models. You can add business logic, fields, and relationships for the objects your module will manage.
  • ▹ Create Views: Modify or add XML files in the `views/` directory to define how the data models will be presented in the Odoo user interface.
  • ▹ Set Security Rules: Update the `ir.model.access.csv` file in the `security/` directory to define who can access the models in your module and what level of access they have.

Step 5: Install the Module

Once you've customized your module, the next step is to install it in Odoo. To do this, go to the Odoo interface, navigate to the "Apps" menu, and click on the "Update Apps List" option. This will refresh the list of available modules. Search for your custom module (e.g., "custom_module") and click "Install".

Upon installation, your module’s functionality will be available in Odoo, and you can start using or testing the features you've developed.

Benefits of Using the Scaffold Command

There are several advantages to using the scaffold command in Odoo to create modules:

  • ▹ Time-Saving: The scaffold command automatically generates the essential files and directories for your module, saving you time in the initial setup.
  • ▹ Best Practices: It ensures that the module is created following Odoo's standard practices, reducing the likelihood of errors.
  • ▹ Customizability: The generated module provides a solid foundation that can be easily customized and expanded to meet specific business requirements.

Conclusion

Using the scaffold command in Odoo is the fastest and most efficient way to create a module structure that adheres to Odoo's best practices. By following the steps outlined above, you can quickly set up a new module and start adding custom functionality. Whether you're building a simple feature or a complex system, the scaffold command gives you a solid foundation to work from, allowing you to focus on business logic and customization.

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