Reset Database? (Start from Scratch)

[Jeff]

Hi,

I haven't been able to successfully search this question, so I suspect I'm
probably not wording the question correctly.

My situation is that I am working with Outlook 2003 and Business Contact
Manager. I am migrating from Outlook Express and ACT! version 6. I have been
experimenting a little with Outlook as I prepare to make the transition.

I believe that I have imported the ACT! database twice, and as a result I
have duplicate entries in my contact list.

I would like to start fresh. I have attempted to delete the two .pst files
that reside on my system, hoping to reimport the ACT database. When I rename
these two files, Outlook can't start; a message window appears stating that
Outlook could not find outlook.pst. (I suppose I could go through and delete
the duplicates; however, I also wish to update my calendar and activities...
Perhaps I should be looking at a sync function?)

I didn't think this task should be so hard; but, I haven't found anything
online or in the Outlook reference publication that I purchased.

Thanks for any help that can be offered.

Jeff

 

[Roady [MVP]]

Start with a new mail profile;
http://www.howto-outlook.com/faq/newprofile.htm

 

[Jeff]

Roady,

Thanks for the quick reply.

I followed the procedure, and I believe everything worked great.

I attempt to follow directions pretty literally. I just want to make sure
that I'm not missing something.

There is information regarding reconnecting to the original .pst file and
setting it as the default delivery location (for email). Since the default
..pst file is what I really wanted to recreate, I believe that I should leave
the new .pst file as the delivery location for email. I can then import the
ACT! information into the newly created .pst file. Have I got the correct
understanding?

Once Outlook is functioning with the new mail profile and a new .pst file,
can I then remove the original mail profile and delete the previous .pst
file? (I don't see why I couldn't ... but, I thought I should ask.

Thanks again for your help.

Jeff

 

[Roady [MVP]]

That is correct. If you don't need the information from the old pst-file
there is no need to reconnect it and set it as the default delivery
location.
As the new mail profile is completely separate from the other you are free
to delete the mail profile and related data files if you want to.

 

[Jeff]

Hi Roady,

Thanks again for your quick reply.

This board is a real blessing for users thanks to folks like you.

Sometimes I know the questions can be pretty simple; but, as I have found
before, assuming things can get a person in trouble pretty quickly. Asking
someone with knowledge is a better idea when it's possible.

Have a great day.

Jeff

 

[Roady [MVP]]

So true!

You're welcome and enjoy your day too!