best approach to modifying tables

[Amit]

Hi,

I've created a database in Access which is currently being
used by 10 users. I need to modify some of the tables, add
new tables and modify existing and add new relationships.
I do not foresee deleting any fields from any table.

What's the best approach to this problem, since I have to
make the changes and ensure that any existing data is not
lost?

One approach would be to modify the database after opening
it exclusivelty, and after making a back-up copy every
time.

Another approach would be to make changes to a copy of the
database, and then replace the original database once all
modifications are complete, and then update the new
version with the existing data (using update queries for
each table?).

The database is not used all the time, so I do have enough
time during the day when I can get exclusive access to it,
without inconveniencing any of the users. So, I'm leaning
towards the first approach.

Any advice will be much appreciated. Any pitfalls I should
be aware of, please do point them out.

Thanks for your help.

-Amit

 

[John Vinson]

One approach would be to modify the database after opening
it exclusivelty, and after making a back-up copy every
time.

If you can kick out the other users, this is certainly the easiest
approach. Having two "live" databases with different data is always a
big hassle.