iManage Work relies on a database for its daily operations. Errors and data inconsistencies can cause significant downtime and loss of productivity. That's why it's essential to have the right tools to diagnose and fix these errors. The iManage imDBCheck tool is specifically designed to help you fix database errors and ensure a successful iManage Cloud Migration. I'll show you how to use imDBCheck to fix database errors in this article.

Before you begin

It's important to note that imDBCheck can be installed on a virtual machine (VM) server, laptop, or desktop as long as the machine has a connection to the SQL server. Also, the .NET framework will be installed (if it's not already present) and the machine may reboot without explicit notice.

Step 1: Download and Install iManage imDBCheck

The first step is to download and install imDBCheck from the iManage website. The installation process is straightforward and should take only a few minutes. Once the installation is complete, launch imDBCheck from the Start menu.

Step 2: Create a Data Source for the SQL Server

Before you can select the database to check, you need to create a data source for the SQL server. This is done by specifying the SQL server name (including the instance if required), providing credentials, or choosing Windows Authentication.

Step 3: Select the iManage Database to Check

Once you have established a connection to the SQL server, go to Validations. Click New Validation and from an Existing Data Source select the iManage database that you want to check. Click Next.

Step 4: Choose Validation Tests

iManage lets you run 94 Consistency, Health and Referal Integrity Checks in imDBCheck 1.4. It's good to run them all unless you know exactly what you are looking for. Click Next.

Step 5: Run the Check

Click the "Begin" button to start the check.

It can take between 30 seconds and a few hours to get the results, all depending on how big and busy the database is, the quality of the connection between your machine and the SQL Server and the performance of the Database Server itself.

imDBCheck will scan the iManage database and identify any errors that it finds. The tool will display a list of the problems, along with links to iManage articles with an explanation of each error.

Step 6: Backup the Database

Use any tool you're comfortable with to back up the Database before you make any changes.

Step 7: Fix the iManage Database Errors

If imDBCheck finds any errors, you will need to fix them manually using SQL queries, custom-written REST API scripts, or by manually using the iManage Work web interface. The errors can't be fixed automatically. Follow the instructions provided by imDBCheck to ensure that you are fixing the errors correctly. This process is critical when you're planning an iManage Cloud Migration, as it will ensure a smooth and successful migration.

Step 8: Verify the Repair

After fixing the errors, verify the repair by running a check on the iManage database again using imDBCheck. Repeat the repair process until all errors have been fixed.

Step 9: Finalize the Repair and Prepare for iManage Cloud Migration

Once imDBCheck finds no further errors, your iManage database should be free of errors and functioning normally, ready for an iManage Cloud Migration.

By following these steps, you can use the iManage imDBCheck tool to fix database errors and ensure a successful iManage Cloud Migration. Whether you use iManage Work or iManage Cloud, having a functioning iManage database is essential for a smooth transition and optimal productivity.