Tracking Record Modifications in SQL Server 2000: Beyond the Built-in Limitations

This is the most straightforward solution, but it requires a schema change to your existing tables. You can add a new column of type datetime named something like "LastModified" to the table. Then, create a trigger on the table that automatically updates this column whenever a record is inserted or updated.

Here's a sample trigger example:

CREATE TRIGGER UpdateLastModified 
ON YourTable
AFTER UPDATE, INSERT
AS
BEGIN
  UPDATE YourTable
  SET LastModified = GETDATE()
  FROM INSERTED AS i
  WHERE YourTable.ID = i.ID;
END;

This trigger will update the "LastModified" column with the current date and time whenever a record is inserted or updated.

Analyzing Transaction Logs (Not Recommended):

While not ideal for regular use, SQL Server transaction logs record all database modifications. Analyzing these logs could theoretically reveal when a particular record was modified. However, this process is complex, technical, and requires specialized tools. It's generally not recommended for everyday use due to its difficulty and potential performance impact.

Upgrading to a Newer Version of SQL Server (If Feasible):

If possible, upgrading to a newer version of SQL Server (like 2005 or later) is highly recommended. These versions often have built-in features like rowversion that automatically track record modifications, making it much easier to identify the last modified date and time.

Related Issues and Solutions:

• Performance Impact: Adding a "Last Modified" column and triggers can slightly impact performance, especially for heavily modified tables. Consider the trade-off between auditability and performance for your specific needs.
• Data Integrity: Ensure your triggers are properly designed to update the "LastModified" column correctly for both insert and update operations.
• Security: If you need to track user information along with modification timestamps, consider implementing additional security measures to protect sensitive data.