Why Different Databases Exist

• Local replications of databases can be configured to hold information longer than the primary database, contain customized templates and routing rules. Local database replicas conserve network resources by permitting users to rely on database information stored to their computer. Network activity then occurs during periodically scheduled updates during non-peak periods or upon user request.
  
  

Causes of Replication Conflicts

• Lotus Notes does not lock records when one user is editing it. When two users alter the same record in a Lotus Notes database, conflicts can occur. Lotus Notes attempts to resolve the conflict by asking users which version of the record to use. “Sam’s Teach Yourself Lotus Notes 7 in 10 Minutes” states ”although many programs use replication to move copies of data closer to the users, Notes is unusual in that, by default, it allows users to make changes to data in any copy of the database.” If the same data is modified in the master and replicated databases, a replication conflict occurs. Using master and local databases in Lotus Notes creates conflict when the software versions are out of sync.
  
  

ACL Solutions

• If users cannot create separate databases, database conflicts cannot occur.Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images
  
  Access Control Limits (ACL) can reduce replication conflicts. ACLs can be set to limit write and update permissions to the master database. When replications of the Lotus Notes database are set to read-only, users retain the faster access to the information and keep their customized Lotus settings. However, setting Lotus database replications so users cannot alter the data prevents conflicts. This solution can require users to switch between database replicas and the master database to make changes to documents.
  
  

Preventing Database Conflicts

• Update Lotus Notes versions on user computers when the primary Lotus Notes server is upgraded. Train users to make changes to the database and save them immediately. Limit the use of local database replicas saved to user’s computers. Direct user instead to work within the master database. Lotus Notes can be configured to always use the last modified version of the document when a database conflict occurs. Lotus Notes database conflicts can be resolved by merging all changes to the record together. Lotus Notes databases do not update immediately. Users can shorten the update period to minimize the time between when they change a record and when the database is updated. Frequent updating ensures their changes are saved in the database and the time in which record conflicts can occur is reduced.