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Occasionaly, someone wrongly deletes a Prolog data file. Since Prolog immediately removes the record from the database, getting the record back takes a bit of work. But with the help of the Prolog Administrator, the record can be restored from a backup that includes the deleted record.

Here are the basic steps to restore the record to a database. These steps require that you have access to Prolog Administrator and know how to backup and restore databases.

1. Locate the backup file (.bak) that includes the deleted file you wish to restore.
2. Restore the backup to a new database and give it a name like Sample_Restored.
3. Log-in to the restored database and make sure the record is there.
4. Go to the Exchange menu and choose Batch Export.
5. On step two of the Batch Export Wizard, select List next to the data group that the record is in and then hit Next. You will now see all the records for that data group. Put a check box next to the record you want to restore.
6. The export will create a “.bex” file that you will use to import into your production database.
7. Now log-in to the production database and go through the Batch Import Wizard.

   The conflict resolution wizard will show up but you can just hit the proceed button. If you are concerned that you will be overwriting data you can put a check box next to “Show Record Conflicts Only.” The screen should show no records. If it shows a record, you will need to verify whether the record should be overwritten.

8. Finally, verify the record was restored to its previous state.

NOTE: There are some limitations to restoring records from a backup.

• Links to the record are not included.
• If you choose to restore a file through an Excel spreadsheet instead of the batch export, cost controlling data can not be imported. See except below from the Readme:

  “Due to the increasing complexity of maintaining links from imported cost controlling records, data can no longer be imported from the following data groups in the Import Wizard: Application for Payment, Contract Invoices, Contracts, Expenditure Authorizations, Funding Assignments, Potential Change Orders, Prime Contract Change Orders and Subcontract Change Orders. These data groups have been removed from the Import Wizard. For more information, see "Importing and Exporting Data" in the Prolog Manager help system.”

Following the steps above, record restoration is possible. But it can be time consuming. Here are a few tips to help prevent data loss.

• Create security groups that restrict users from deleting records unless they are responsible for that data.
• Do not turn off the Tools>Options check box titled Confirm Before Deleting Data.
• Stop and read the messages displayed on Prolog prompts and dialogue boxes.  You may have thought you were deleting a row, but in reality you are deleting the entire record. Taking the time to thoroughly read dialogue boxes can prevent accidental deletions.

Meridian Systems and the Meridian Systems logo are the property of Meridian Systems, Inc. All other company and product names may be trademarks of their respective owners. Copyright © 2005 Meridian Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

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