Create a Working Copy of an Application

 Creating a working copy of an Oracle APEX application is a best practice that allows developers to safely enhance or troubleshoot applications without affecting the live production version. A working copy acts as a separate, editable version of the application where you can freely experiment with new features, UI changes, PL/SQL processes, or integrations. This method is especially valuable in team environments or when preparing for a major release, as it helps ensure that any changes can be tested and reviewed in isolation before being published to end users.

Using working copies in Oracle APEX is a fundamental strategy for managing development and ensuring application stability. A working copy is a separate instance of your APEX application that allows you to develop, test, and make changes without impacting the live production environment. This method helps safeguard the production system by isolating new features, bug fixes, or enhancements until they are fully validated.

To use working copies effectively, start by exporting your current application from the production workspace. This exported application file (.sql) acts as the baseline for your working copy. Next, import this file into a development workspace or a dedicated environment. Here, you can freely modify the application, create new pages, update processes, or alter logic without risking data loss or user disruption. Oracle APEX’s built-in export/import utilities make this process straightforward.

While working on the copy, it’s important to test all changes rigorously. Utilize APEX’s debugging and session state features to verify that your modifications behave as expected. Once the development and testing are complete, export the updated working copy and import it back into the production environment, replacing the existing application or deploying as a new version.

For teams, working copies also support parallel development workflows. Multiple developers can create individual working copies, work independently, and later consolidate changes through coordinated exports and imports. Integrating working copies with version control systems can further enhance change tracking and collaboration.

Overall, working copies provide a safe, efficient, and flexible approach to Oracle APEX application development. They protect live environments, improve testing quality, and enable better team coordination. By incorporating working copies into your development cycle, you ensure smoother deployments and higher application reliability.

1. Go to App Builder and find the application you want to duplicate.

2. Click on Utilities > Application Copy.

3. Choose Copy Application and enter a new name (e.g., "MyApp_Test").

4. Select the components you want to include: 

• Pages

• Application Definition (Pages, Shared Components) 

• Authentication & Authorization

• Shared Components

• Data Model

5. Click Create Application.

This will create a separate copy of the application that you can modify without affecting the original.

Using a working copy streamlines development, improves code quality, and minimizes the risk of breaking a live application. Once your updates are complete and thoroughly tested, you can either apply the changes manually to the production app or replace the existing version with the updated copy. Incorporating working copies into your workflow leads to safer development practices, promotes collaboration, and helps maintain the stability and reliability of your Oracle APEX applications.