Taking backups of your data is an essential part of using Booking Pro and failure to take them can result in the total loss of all of your data and as a result you would need to completely re-key it. Unfortunately it is not always possible to recreate the data because any paper trail has been superseded by your reliance on Booking Pro. This can result in loss of revenue because of difficulties trying to ascertain what needs to be invoiced. As such the importance of taking backups cannot be overstressed.

You should always discuss backing up Booking Pro with your IT Department as they should be able to incorporate Booking Pro into their regular backup procedures to ensure that both the Booking Pro software and the database (which are sometimes installed on separate PCs) is secure. This will reduce the risk of losing your data in the event of a failure and if their backups are held offsite it will also protect you in the event of a catastrophic event such as a fire.

However it can take some time to arrange for your IT Department to restore data in the event that you simply make a mistake when using Booking Pro and to overcome this Booking Pro contains it's own backup and restore procedures which you can use to take your own backups and to restore them whenever you need to. You will normally be prompted to take a backup every time you exit Booking Pro (though this can be turned off) and you can also take a backup at anytime using the Backup Database option on the File menu. In both cases the following form is displayed:

The Backup Database form is used as follows:

1. Back files are stored in the folder specified under Back up database to. By default this will be a folder called Backups within your program folder (e.g. C:\Program Files\BPR Solutions\BookingPro\Backups). If this is not the folder you wish to use for your backup files click the Browse... button and select a different folder.
2. By default backup files are only retained for 14 days. If you wish to retain them for a longer period you can adjust Retain back up files for to the number of days you require.
3. Normally you will be asked to backup up the database every time you exit Booking Pro. If you would prefer this not to happen simply uncheck Prompt me to Back up on exit.
4. Finally click the Back Up Now button to backup the database. Alternatively clicking the Don't Back Up button will close the form without taking a backup.

How do I restore a backup?

Instructions for restoring a backup are found here.

Why is it that I am not prompted to take a backup when I exit the system?

You won't be prompted to take a backup on exit if Prompt me to Back up on exit isn't checked. To be prompted in future use the Backup Database option on the File menu, check Prompt me to Back up on exit and click the Don't Back Up button. Now when you exit Booking Pro you will be prompted to backup the database.