is it mandatory to use export patch for changing object?

Question

Ranjith P · Accepted Answer

importing a patch is used to update an application with new or modified object. typically it use to enhancement or defect for application.So it is good that you can use patch when your doing code change.

Mike Schmitt · Answer

My preferred method for this when creating small hotfixes to push to Production is, prepare the hotfix in its own new (small) app package in the hotfix environment, then add the contents of that application to a patch, and import the patch into a dedicated patches / hotfixes app package in the target environment. This allows us to keep track of recently changed objects if necessary, without cluttering the production environment with zillions of individual patch apps.

laurenc20 · Answer

A patch can be used as well as exporting an application but the patch may not be related to the larger application. It makes sense to use a patch when fixing something for a defect but maybe not for new development on an existing object.