Here are the key features and functionalities of the Replication module:

1. Core Functionality: Replication facilitates the automatic synchronisation of data between a head office and multiple branch servers, as well as standalone stations. It is designed to ensure operational continuity, allowing branches to function even if central server connectivity is lost, as all replication is automated with no user intervention required.
2. Key Components: The module is structured around several components: Servers (defining SQL database servers with unique names, physical addresses, database names, and unique two-character masks for transaction IDs), Server Connections, Server Topology (providing a visual representation of the replication network), Rules (controlling data flow), Import/Export Data (for manual synchronisation during extended outages), and a Queue Monitor (for tracking data transfer and managing failed items).
3. Setup and Configuration: Proper setup requires all servers (Head Office, Branch, and Standalone) to have synchronised time (using UTC). Server specifications and network bandwidth are crucial for smooth data flow. The process involves installing the LinkSOFT application, setting up the Head Office with parent links, and configuring branch servers with child links. The previous "Replication Server Mode" has been reviewed and removed, simplifying configuration by making standalone functionality equivalent to the standard parent/child setup.
4. Data Flow Rules: Replication rules are pivotal for controlling data transmission. These rules can be configured to restrict specific data types from flowing to all branches, ensuring only relevant data reaches designated locations. For example, shift details are generally not replicated to other branches to prevent discrepancies, and POSCASH customer details are not replicated by default. Conversely, specific tables like LT_INV_InventoryBarcode are explicitly included to ensure essential barcode information synchronises across locations, and the replication of Inventory List records is allowed so branches can review stock levels.
5. Performance and Reliability: Significant efforts have been made to enhance replication performance and prevent data corruption, particularly concerning primary key issues. This includes fine-tuning processes, reducing data load for high-volume transactions, and ensuring consistency across replicated objects. Custom triggers are dynamically built for efficient data handling, and manual replication jobs have been migrated to automated processes to improve efficiency, such as correctly handling stock movement updates from branches to the head office.
6. Troubleshooting and Monitoring: Tools like "Compare Data" allow users to identify any "Additional," "Missing," or "Different" data between head office and branch databases. The Queue Monitor provides detailed insights into data transfer queues, enabling administrators to re-submit or delete failed items after a certain number of retry attempts. Comprehensive error logging and improved handling of transmission batches contribute to overall system stability.
7. Licensing and Access: Access to Replication features, including its dedicated menus and processes, is strictly controlled by a specific license based on server connections. If the necessary license is not active, these functionalities are automatically hidden from the user interface, ensuring controlled and secure management of this critical data synchronisation module.
8. Technical Modernisation: The module has undergone technical modernisation, moving towards using the LinkSOFT API for data transmission between databases, thereby replacing older methods that relied on "Linked Servers." This approach enhances the efficiency and reliability of data exchange within the LinkSOFT ecosystem.