For Classic Client versions of NAV.  NAV 2016 and Later we recommend using the copy company function.

NOTE: The attached document contains screenshots for the below instructions.


Creating a Test Company in a Navision Database


These instructions are meant to be a step-by-step guide to creating a test company within the Navision Database.  Test companies are useful as a training resource and for testing Navision functionality without affecting live data.  Test companies are created using current data from the main company within a database.  It is recommended to update Test Company data periodically as transactions are not duplicated across companies.


Creating a Test Company


Before starting:


. Ensure user creating the test company is a SUPERUSER
. Ensure all other users are logged out of Navision during this procedure


Only a SUPERUSER has the permission to complete all steps.  All other users must be logged out to guarantee no data is lost during test company creation.


Step 1: Make backup of entire database and all companies


NOTE: Make sure again all users are logged out of Navision


. Tools > Backup
. Select:


Entire Database


Selected Companies
Check ALL companies listed
Data Common to All Companies
Application Objects


Description: .fbk
File Name: Save to backup location with same name as above


. OK
. After the backup runs successfully a confirmation message will appear
. OK


Step 2: Rename Main Company to TEST Company


Rename the Main Company (or company with data to copy into Test Company)


. File > Company > Open
. Select the Main Company (or company with data to copy into Test Company)
. OK
Double-check that the Company name in the top left Header is the correct company


. File > Company > Rename
. Type in "TEST Company" in New Company Name in Rename Company table
. OK


Double-check that the Company name in the top left Header is the new TEST company name


Step 3: Restore Main Company


Restoring the main company from the database backup will automatically create "another" company.  This will have the same information as the Test Company.  Navision wouldn't allow 2 companies to have the same name in a database.  If the main company hasn't been renamed to Test Company (Or another name) then an error will prevent this next step.


. Tools > Restore
. Locate database just backed up
. OK
. Select


Custom Backup
Selected Companies
 Check only the main company just renamed into Test Company
. OK


There should now be a Test Company, Main Company, and any other companies setup up in Navision.  The Test Company will have most current date and ready to use.