Business applications are expected not only to store records, but also to manage business workflows. Odoo includes a workflow engine, but it is increasingly used less in later versions of the product. Instead, automation rules and Kanban boards are used whenever possible.

The automation rules are most relevant for customization than for new addon modules development, but developers should still be familiar with them. Doing so can avoid over-engineered business rules that can be implemented through functional customizations. Some of these techniques can also be used by power users or functional consultants to add some simpler process automation without the need to create custom addons.