Q: If I no longer receive a catalog DVD how can I keep older months data using the new Content Downloader tool?
A: The installation data obtained from the Content Downloader is exactly the same as what was sent on the DVD. The only difference being that the data is now contained in a digital folder on your computer instead of on a physical DVD disc. Keeping an older months data is as simple as keeping the downloaded folder for that month. A best practice is to name your download folder by month and year in the same way that the DVD's were marked.
Example: Each months download could be named appropriately and be centralized under a parent folder that is easy to locate.
Q: What is the purpose of storing or keeping older months catalog data?
A: The most common reason involves the need for historical pricing that may still be needed for a contract situation. After updating your content to the new pricing, using an older months download or DVD allows you reload the older price list as an "alternate manufacturer" to continue specifying under the previous pricing. Older data can sometimes also be needed in a case of a manufacturer discontinuing a product line which may still be required for reconfigurations or to complete an existing project.
Q: Is it really necessary to save the download for each month?
A: This depends on what need you have for older data. It is best to ask yourself how often have you had to go back to an older months DVD? It may be that for your situation it is not even necessary tosave any older data at all. If you do deal with frequent pricing contracts, then how often the manufacturer updates the pricing may determine how many months you actually need to store. It would be uncommon for the pricing to change on a monthly basis. Many times a price is in effect for several months. It may be that keeping just a few past months, maybe once a quarter would cover any situation that may arise for needing historical data.
Q: What if I do not have enough hard drive space to store historical downloads?
A: Available hard drive storage space is a valid concern for the downloaded content. The amount of data you could archive is limited by the available storage space at your disposal. If local hard drive space is low, then an external USB hard drive could be a good option of storing past months download folders to. Checking with your organizations help desk to see what network storage options are available for keeping historical data saved to could also be an option.
Q: Can provide historical catalog data if I need it?
A: Yes. Office maintains an archive of historical data available upon request. Please contact Support for more information.