Is there any reason I shouldn't edit an add-on's bin directory files?

[thisissplunk]

I want to add a few things to an app that sends off API commands when saved searches trigger. Basically a new field for the API, so a new GUI element to fill out during the alert trigger config, and then one new line in the API script that gets executed.

Is there any reason I can't just go into that app's bin/ directory and edit the code right there? Will it break anything, or is there a process that needs to be followed during changes like this?

[richgalloway · Accepted solution]

I'm assuming this is not your app. You can probably get away with editing the code, but your changes will be lost when the app is updated. That's easily avoided using your favorite change control system, but is something to be aware of.

[thisissplunk]

Yes, not mine. Definitely something to be aware of in terms of updating. Is there anything else that I need to understand before just changing code?

[richgalloway]

To avoid breaking things for other users, consider creating a copy of the app and making your changes to the copy. Of course, that may create other problems with precedence (which app's config wins).