6.06.00 Synchronizing Databases

Synchronizing databases copies information contained in the Master Menu tables of one database and inserts that information into another database. By default, all master tables will be copied to the new database but this can be customized on the Synchronize Databases dialog box.

When synchronizing databases, the database from which information is being copied is called the Source database, and the database into which this information is being copied is called the Destination database. The synchronization process affects Master Tables only and does not affect individual bids. The primary use of the Synchronization feature is so new databases can quickly be populated with the information necessary to start bidding right away.

Notes on Synchronizing Databases

• When synchronizing databases, no information is actually removed from the Source database. It is only being added to the Destination database.

• Synchronizing databases does not copy or transfer any BID information, only the Master Tables are affected.  To transfer Bids from one database to another, see Copying Bids (synchronize first, then copy Bids).

• Synchronizing databases does not copy over the New Bid, M/U Cost Codes, and Lookup settings configured under Tools>Options.

• Synchronizing database DOES copy over the General, Category Codes, and Folders settings configured under Tools>Options.

• Synchronizing database DOES copy over the everything from the destination database configured under Tools > Payroll Settings and Tools > Default Markups & Indirect Expenses.

• When synchronizing databases, all Master Tables or a combination of Tables can be synchronized (by default, all Master Tables are copied to the new database).

How to Synchronize Databases

• Click Tools > Synchronize Databases - the Synchronize Databases dialog opens

Synchronize all Master Menu tables including assemblies (Default), or uncheck the box next to Synchronize all Master menu tables including assemblies and select only specific tables to synchronize.  Some tables are dependent on other tables - for example, Conditions Assemblies is dependent on Condition Types, Estimators, Items, Item Types and other tables - those tables would automatically be selected if Condition Assemblies is selected.

• Click Start
• When synchronization is complete the new database contains all of the master information

• Some companies keep a Master (template) Database and use this to create new databases, saving a great deal of time.

Backing up a Microsoft Access Database