Update tables

[geno]

Hi,
I have a client who wants to work from home on two tables in the database. What would be the best way to update his changes to the live database at his work? He is planning on doing changes for a few days at a time before updating the two tables at work.
Thanks for any help.
Geno

 

[Len Boorman]

I would suggest that you need to look at this very carefully.
1) Do the tables have PK's that are linked to FK's
2) Do the tables have FK's linked from PK's

Situation 1
If a PK is updated on a copy then that has implications on FK's

Situation 2
If FK's are updated then there is a referential integrity implication

Also What about the table being updated while it is being used at its normal location

These are all bad news items.

If it was me I would say "Not Recommended at all. If you do it then it is on your head if there is a problem"

Then explain what he cannot change. PK and FK values. Add an update flag to each table. If the row is updated then flag to be set.

You can then import tables and run update query against indicated rows with relationship between Original table and updated table at PK.

Dodgy business though unless your client is really aware.

len

 

[geno]

Thanks for your input and I agree with you totally. I've looked into doing a replica of the database or teaching the user how to use the Breifcase feature in Windows.

 

[Adeptus]

I've only worked with replicas a little but they were a right royal pain...

 

[geno]

Could you elaborate a little on the problems you came across with doing a replication.