Backing up your database
When you make changes in developer mode, those changes are written into the database associated with the company. One of the major advantages of this approach is that you do not have to write code in Python or create a custom module to implement simple customizations. You don't even have to restart the server. One of the major disadvantages, however, is that there is the potential for making an unwanted change, or one that is difficult to reverse.
Therefore, it is very important and highly recommended that you make backups of your database both before and after you make any customizations while in developer mode.
Note
Do not skip this step!
It is always a good idea to frequently back up your database, but it is absolutely imperative that you back up your database before undertaking any customization.
To back up your database, you must first log out of Odoo. After you have successfully logged out, click on the Manage Databases link on the login form. From this screen...
