18 Nov Data Integrity with Large Files
Data Integrity with Large Files
Q – We have a client that is using QuickBooks PRO 2003; the file size is 134MB. Should we be concerned about the data integrity? They are a manufacturing business and use Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable extensively; they also like to have 3 to 4 years of history available. We have condensed data except for the last 4 years. If this is a concern, what are the options?
A – As a general rule, Intuit recommends that the file size not exceed 80 MB (it was 100 MB in most literature prior to the release of the Enterprise Solution). The speed, memory, etc of the computer being used will significantly impact the file size that is appropriate. Even if the file size is not above that limit now, it is helpful to calculate how quickly the file size is growing to know when the issue may need to be addressed.
The with any data file, regularly confirming the data has integrity (File > Utilities > Data Integrity) is an important procedure. With large files it is critical. Data integrity issues are often not readily apparent to the end user without use of the feature within QuickBooks.
Based on the size of the file, the extensive use of QuickBooks features, and the desire to have so many years readily accessible in the same data file, this may be a candidate to upgrade to the Enterprise Solution. This product has the same look and feel as the other QuickBooks software so there is no learning curve, but it is designed with larger data files in mind.