Always update!
Many well known software products such as Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Office, and QuickBooks are sold in versions. Service packs for older versions remain available for several years and there is no obligation to upgrade to the current version. Many people commonly perceive that all software is maintained this way.
This is not the case with DBA. DBA is a highly specialized application with only one version, which is always the current build. Service packs and hotfixes are only available in the current build.
Our support and software maintenance model is based on the premise that all customers are on the current build. When you stay on an older build, you not only do not benefit from new product features and fixees, but you also remain vulnerable to to security and compliance issues introduced by the constantly evolving Microsoft Operating System.
It’s also easier for your users to adapt to each build incrementally than it is to skip several builds and then have to “catch up” with a large set of changes.
In conclusion -- always update. It protects your system from problems, helps us provide better support, and makes it easier for your users to keep up with changes.
How updates are distributed
The latest program version can always be found in the What's New area in the online support center.
When a new update is released, we typically provide notification to customers that have resolved programming issues in our support ticket system. We often follow this up with a newsletter announcement. After the early adopter phase has concluded, we set a notification to Admin users at launch of DBA that a new update is available.
The build number identifies each product version
Each new version of the product is identified with a build number. A typical build number looks like this:
394.0.1
Build Number Segments
The build number consists of three digital segments:
Segment 1 = Build Number
The first segment identifies the 3-digit build number. Each build is a major release with significant new product features. A build typically requires administrator tasks and includes new educational materials.
Segment 2 = Service Pack Number
The middle segment identifies a single digit service pack number. A service pack is a minor release with product improvements. Service packs typically do not require administrator tasks.
Segment 3 = Hotfix Number
The final segment identifies a single digit hotfix number. A “hotfix” release consists of one of more high priority bug fixes.
You can optionally preview updates using the Training Company
Before going live with a new update, you have the option of previewing and experimenting with the update on your own company data by installing the Training Company option. If you have an existing Training Company installed, you will need to go to Windows > Add/Remove Programs and uninstall our old version and and install the latest.
Product Update Documentation
Release Notes
From wherever you download a product update or service pack, whether it is from within the software or from the online support center, the download file is always accompanied by a release notes document in PDF format.
NOTE: Always review the release notes prior to updating because they may include system administrator instructions.
Resolved Programming Issues
A list of resolved programming issues is made available with each product updates and service pack in the What’s New area of the support center.
