Global Changes (Search & Replace)

The Global Change utility allows you to modify thousands of records at once. It is a powerful but dangerous tool used to fix typos, move data between fields, or delete specific tags.

Access: Cataloging > Utilities > Global Changes

:::danger Irreversible Operation There is no "Undo" button. Always perform a Backup (ISO Export) of your database before running a global change. :::

The Interface

The form allows you to define exactly what to change and where.

1. Scope

• Field: Select the Tag you want to modify (e.g., 650 - Subjects).
• Search Context:
  • Global Change: Apply to the entire database.
  • Search: Apply only to records matching a search expression (e.g., PY=2020).

2. Operation Type

• Scope of modification:
  • Value: Matches the entire content of the field.
  • Sub-string: Matches a part of the text within the field.
• Case Sensitive: Check this if "Apple" should be treated differently from "apple".

3. Actions

You define a Search String (what exists now) and a Replace String (what you want).

Scenario	Search For	Replace With	Result
Fix Typo	Computeer	Computer	Fixes spelling errors.
Delete Data	Obsolete Term	(Leave Empty)	Removes the term.
Add Data	(Leave Empty)	New Term	Appends data (use with caution).

Splitting Fields

You can also split a field into two based on a delimiter.

• Delimiter: e.g., --
• Action: Move the second part to another field (e.g., Tag 651).

Execution

1. Click Execute.
2. The system will process the records and show a log of changes.
3. Verify: Immediately check a few records to ensure the change was correct.