Within Mantis Bug Tracker, the project identifier is a critical piece of information, linking issues and data points to specific projects. Modifying this identifier requires careful consideration as it can impact data integrity and existing references. A direct modification within the database isn’t typically recommended due to potential complications with foreign key relationships and cached data throughout the system. Instead, one might achieve a similar effect through exporting and importing data to a new project, or through careful manipulation of project settings and categories.
The significance of accurately managing project identifiers within Mantis stems from maintaining data consistency and facilitating efficient reporting. A correctly configured project ID ensures that bug reports, notes, and attachments are appropriately associated, allowing for streamlined tracking and analysis. Historically, issues arising from incorrect or inconsistent project identifiers have led to data fragmentation, hindering effective project management and potentially impacting project timelines and resource allocation.
The following discussion will delve into the complexities of altering the project identifier within Mantis Bug Tracker, exploring strategies and best practices for mitigating risks associated with such changes. It will cover common scenarios where such a modification might be desired, and outline the potential consequences to consider before undertaking such a task.
1. Data Integrity
Data integrity is paramount when contemplating alterations to a Mantis project identifier. The identifier serves as a primary key linking various records within the system, including bug reports, notes, attachments, and user assignments. Any modification to this identifier without corresponding updates to related tables and configurations results in orphaned records, breaking the relational integrity of the database. For example, if a project identifier is changed in the ‘mantis_project_table’ without updating the ‘mantis_bug_table’ records that reference the old identifier, the bug reports will no longer be associated with the project, rendering them effectively lost within the system. This loss directly undermines the system’s reliability and the accuracy of project-related information.
The consequences of compromised data integrity extend beyond mere inconvenience. Incorrect project associations can lead to misreporting, skewed metrics, and flawed decision-making. For instance, a manager reviewing project progress may receive inaccurate bug counts or resolution rates if bugs are inadvertently linked to the wrong project. Similarly, developers may waste time searching for issues that are incorrectly categorized, hindering their ability to efficiently address and resolve bugs. Practical data integrity considerations also encompass the necessity of thorough backups and testing in non-production environments prior to any attempt to modify the identifier. Without these precautions, the risks of data loss and system corruption are significantly increased.
In summary, maintaining data integrity is not merely a best practice; it is a fundamental requirement when considering project identifier modifications within Mantis. The identifier acts as a central pivot point for a vast network of interconnected data. Altering it without meticulous planning, comprehensive testing, and appropriate database adjustments can have severe repercussions, leading to data loss, system instability, and compromised project management capabilities. Therefore, prioritizing data integrity considerations is crucial for the successful and sustainable operation of Mantis Bug Tracker.
2. Database Implications
Altering the project identifier in Mantis directly affects the underlying database structure. Mantis relies on a relational database, typically MySQL or PostgreSQL, where the project identifier serves as a primary key in the `mantis_project_table` and as a foreign key in numerous other tables. A direct modification of the project identifier without corresponding updates in all related tables will immediately violate referential integrity. For instance, the `mantis_bug_table`, `mantis_project_user_list_table`, and `mantis_category_table` all contain columns that reference the project identifier. Consequently, a change to the project identifier in the main project table necessitates a cascading update in these and other related tables to maintain data consistency. Failure to execute these updates will result in orphaned records, making bug reports, user assignments, and categories unlinked from their intended projects. This has profound implications for reporting, data retrieval, and overall system functionality. The complexity increases exponentially with the size and activity of the Mantis installation, as the number of records requiring updating grows proportionally.
Beyond the immediate referential integrity concerns, altering the project identifier can also impact database performance. A large-scale update operation, involving numerous tables and potentially millions of records, can place a significant load on the database server. This can lead to performance degradation, slower response times for users, and even temporary system outages. Furthermore, improper database modifications can corrupt indexes, further hindering query performance and exacerbating the initial problem. Real-world examples include situations where organizations attempting to consolidate projects by changing identifiers have experienced prolonged system downtime and significant data inconsistencies, ultimately requiring extensive database recovery efforts. Therefore, understanding the database implications, including table relationships, data volumes, and server capacity, is crucial before even considering any modification to the project identifier.
In conclusion, modifying the project identifier in Mantis is not a simple task; it is a complex database operation with far-reaching consequences. A thorough understanding of the database schema, foreign key relationships, and potential performance impacts is essential. Alternative strategies, such as data migration to a new project with the desired identifier or utilizing custom scripts to manage project associations, should be explored before attempting a direct database modification. Ultimately, a cautious and well-planned approach, guided by a strong understanding of the database implications, is the only way to minimize the risk of data corruption, system instability, and operational disruption.
3. Mantis Architecture
The Mantis Bug Tracker architecture critically influences the feasibility and risk associated with modifying project identifiers. Mantis is structured around a relational database, a PHP-based application layer, and a web-based user interface. The project identifier, central to this architecture, acts as a linchpin connecting issues, users, categories, and other related data points. Any alteration to the project identifier necessitates a comprehensive understanding of this interconnectedness. For instance, if the application layer has cached the project identifier, changing it solely within the database can lead to inconsistencies and application errors. Similarly, custom plugins or integrations reliant on the project identifier may malfunction if they are not updated to reflect the change. The effect is compounded in larger Mantis installations with complex workflows and numerous custom configurations, demanding a more intricate assessment.
A concrete example highlights the importance of architectural awareness. Consider a scenario where a company attempts to consolidate multiple projects within Mantis by changing the project identifiers of the child projects to match the parent project. Without first disabling or modifying any custom scripts or integrations that rely on the original project identifiers, the consolidation effort could inadvertently disrupt automated workflows, such as email notifications or issue assignment rules. Furthermore, cached data within the application layer may continue to reference the old identifiers, leading to inconsistencies in reporting and data retrieval. This emphasizes the need for a thorough audit of the Mantis installation, including the identification of all components that depend on the project identifier, prior to undertaking any modification. Such auditing activities could include reviewing configuration files, scanning custom scripts, and analyzing database schemas.
In summary, the Mantis architecture presents significant challenges when considering alterations to the project identifier. A comprehensive understanding of the database schema, application layer behavior, and custom integrations is essential for mitigating the risks associated with such changes. The interconnectivity of the Mantis system necessitates a holistic approach, prioritizing careful planning, thorough testing, and meticulous execution to minimize the potential for data corruption, system instability, and operational disruption. The decision to modify the identifier should be weighed against the potential benefits, considering alternative strategies, such as data migration or configuration adjustments, which may offer a safer and more sustainable solution.
4. Foreign Key Relations
Foreign key relations are foundational to the integrity and functionality of Mantis Bug Tracker, particularly when considering any modification to project identifiers. These relations define the connections between tables in the database, ensuring that data remains consistent and linked appropriately. Altering a project identifier without carefully addressing foreign key constraints can result in orphaned records and a compromised system.
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Enforcement of Referential Integrity
Foreign key relations enforce referential integrity, guaranteeing that a value in a foreign key column (e.g., `project_id` in the `mantis_bug_table`) corresponds to a valid value in the primary key column of the related table (e.g., `id` in the `mantis_project_table`). If an attempt is made to modify the primary key valuethe project identifierwithout updating corresponding foreign key values, the database will, in most configurations, reject the change. This rejection is a safeguard against data inconsistencies, but bypassing this requires careful planning.
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Cascading Updates
Some database systems support cascading updates, where a change to a primary key value automatically propagates to all related foreign key values. While this feature might seem convenient for modifying project identifiers, it requires extreme caution. If not configured correctly or if there are overlooked foreign key relationships, a cascading update could inadvertently modify data in unintended ways, leading to widespread data corruption. For example, a mistakenly configured cascading update could assign bug reports to the wrong project, jeopardizing project tracking and reporting.
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Data Retrieval and Reporting
Foreign key relations are critical for efficient data retrieval and reporting. Queries that join tables based on these relations enable the system to retrieve related data quickly and accurately. If project identifiers are modified without updating the foreign key relationships, these queries will fail to return accurate results. For example, a report designed to list all bugs associated with a specific project will not function correctly if the `project_id` in the `mantis_bug_table` does not match the current identifier in the `mantis_project_table`. This directly impacts the ability to monitor project progress and make informed decisions.
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Impact on Custom Scripts and Plugins
Many Mantis installations rely on custom scripts and plugins that directly interact with the database. These scripts often utilize foreign key relations to retrieve and manipulate data. Modifying project identifiers without updating these scripts will cause them to malfunction. For instance, a script designed to automatically assign bugs to developers based on project membership will fail if it relies on an outdated project identifier in the `mantis_project_user_list_table`. This can disrupt automated workflows and require extensive rework to restore functionality.
In conclusion, understanding and carefully managing foreign key relations is essential when considering changes to project identifiers in Mantis. Neglecting these relationships will inevitably lead to data inconsistencies, system instability, and a compromised ability to effectively manage projects. Alternative strategies, such as data migration or configuration adjustments, which minimize the impact on foreign key relations, should be explored before attempting any direct modification of the project identifier.
5. Risk Mitigation
Modifying project identifiers within Mantis Bug Tracker inherently carries significant risk. Unmanaged, this alteration can lead to data corruption, system instability, and operational disruption. Consequently, risk mitigation becomes an indispensable component of the process. Effective risk mitigation strategies are multifaceted, encompassing thorough planning, meticulous execution, and comprehensive testing. A direct cause-and-effect relationship exists: inadequate risk mitigation directly increases the probability of adverse outcomes following an identifier change. For example, neglecting to back up the database before initiating the modification creates a scenario where data loss is unrecoverable in the event of an error. The practical significance of understanding this connection lies in making informed decisions about whether to proceed with the modification and, if so, how to minimize potential damage. A successful alteration hinges on proactively identifying potential risks and implementing measures to prevent or mitigate them. These measures must be proportional to the risk posed, balancing the desired outcome of the modification with the potential cost of failure.
Practical applications of risk mitigation involve creating detailed contingency plans, establishing rollback procedures, and conducting thorough testing in a non-production environment. Contingency plans outline the steps to be taken in response to various potential problems, such as data corruption or system downtime. Rollback procedures define the process for reverting the system to its pre-modification state in the event of a critical failure. Testing in a non-production environment allows for the identification and resolution of issues before they impact the live system. Furthermore, implementing version control for custom scripts and configurations ensures that changes can be easily reverted if necessary. Real-life examples of risk mitigation failures abound, from organizations experiencing prolonged downtime due to inadequate testing to those suffering data loss because of insufficient backups. The lessons learned from these failures underscore the importance of prioritizing risk mitigation in any project identifier modification.
In summary, risk mitigation is not merely a supplementary activity but an essential prerequisite for modifying project identifiers in Mantis Bug Tracker. It requires a proactive and systematic approach, encompassing planning, execution, and testing. Challenges arise in accurately identifying all potential risks and in implementing effective mitigation measures. However, a commitment to risk mitigation is paramount to ensuring data integrity, system stability, and operational continuity. Ultimately, a successful modification of the project identifier relies on a deep understanding of the potential risks and a diligent effort to mitigate them. If the risks are deemed too high or cannot be adequately mitigated, alternative solutions should be explored.
6. Backup Procedures
Backup procedures represent a critical, non-negotiable component when considering alterations to project identifiers within Mantis Bug Tracker. The act of modifying a project identifier inherently carries risks of data corruption, system instability, and potential operational downtime. As such, a comprehensive backup strategy serves as the primary safeguard against irreversible data loss. A robust backup not only includes the database itself but also configuration files, custom scripts, and any other components integral to the Mantis installation. The absence of a reliable backup exposes the system to potentially catastrophic consequences should the modification process encounter unforeseen complications. The practical significance lies in the capacity to revert the system to its previous, functional state, thereby mitigating any negative impact on ongoing operations. One could examine instances where system administrators, lacking a recent or complete backup, initiated database modifications only to experience complete data loss due to unforeseen errors. The resultant recovery efforts were costly, time-consuming, and, in some cases, unsuccessful.
A suitable backup strategy involves several key considerations. The frequency of backups must be adequate to minimize potential data loss in the event of a failure. The retention policy should be sufficient to allow for recovery from errors that might not be immediately detected. Furthermore, backups must be stored in a secure location, separate from the production environment, to protect against data loss due to hardware failures or security breaches. Practical applications include employing automated backup tools that regularly create full or incremental backups of the Mantis database and associated files. Additionally, regular testing of the backup and restoration process is crucial to ensure its effectiveness. For example, a hypothetical scenario involved regularly backing up the data of Mantis BT, but these backup procedures were never validated; the backup medium had failed months prior without the IT Staff notice. As consequence, it could not be reverted.
In summary, backup procedures are not merely a recommended practice but a mandatory prerequisite for any attempt to alter project identifiers within Mantis Bug Tracker. The complexity of the database structure, the potential for unforeseen errors, and the reliance on the project identifier throughout the system all underscore the critical importance of having a reliable backup in place. The challenges lie in creating and maintaining a comprehensive backup strategy that addresses all potential risks. However, a well-executed backup procedure provides a safety net, allowing for a controlled rollback in the event of problems, thereby safeguarding data integrity and ensuring business continuity. The implementation of well executed backups, including a backup validation, is crucial and should be done prior to start the “how to change project id in mantis” process.
7. Alternative Solutions
When confronted with the perceived need to alter project identifiers within Mantis Bug Tracker, a thorough evaluation of alternative solutions is essential. Direct modification of the identifier is a high-risk operation, potentially leading to data corruption and system instability. Therefore, exploring alternatives becomes a prudent approach, prioritizing data integrity and operational continuity. These solutions often offer a safer, more sustainable path to achieving the desired outcome without the inherent dangers of directly changing the core identifier.
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Data Migration to a New Project
This involves creating a new project with the desired identifier and migrating the relevant data from the existing project. This approach avoids direct manipulation of the existing project’s identifier, minimizing the risk of data corruption. The process typically involves exporting data from the old project and importing it into the new one, ensuring all relationships are maintained. However, this can be a complex undertaking, requiring careful mapping of data fields and thorough testing to ensure a seamless transition. For example, an organization needing to align project identifiers with a new naming convention might choose this method, creating new projects with the updated names and migrating the data accordingly. Any customizations or plugins would then need to be applied to the new project. This process must be done in a controlled setting, like a testing environment, to properly assess the impact that this would have to the data and system.
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Project Renaming through User Interface (if available)
Some Mantis configurations or custom plugins may offer a user interface feature to rename projects. While this might appear to directly alter the identifier, it often involves an abstraction layer that updates the identifier in the database while handling the necessary cascading changes. However, relying on this method without understanding its underlying mechanisms can be risky. It is crucial to verify that the renaming process correctly updates all related tables and configurations. Before using this functionality, testing must be done to ensure it doesn’t have unintended consequences.
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Category Restructuring and Custom Fields
Instead of changing the project identifier, reorganizing categories within the existing project or utilizing custom fields can sometimes achieve the desired outcome. For example, if the intent is to differentiate projects based on certain criteria, custom fields can be added to represent these criteria, allowing for filtering and reporting without altering the project identifier itself. A concrete instance involves an organization that, rather than changing the project ID, restructures categories to better align with their evolving workflow, using custom fields to categorize issues and users within the existing project structure, preserving the identifier and reducing the risk.
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Archiving and Creating New Projects
If the goal is to segregate active projects from inactive ones, archiving the old project and creating a new project with a different identifier might be a viable alternative. This approach avoids modifying the existing project data and provides a clear separation between active and archived projects. For instance, a development team could archive a completed software project and initiate a new project for the next version, with a distinct identifier, maintaining the integrity of the completed project’s data. Ensure the organization fully understand all the implications of archiving projects.
These alternative solutions offer varying degrees of complexity and risk compared to directly changing the project identifier. The optimal approach depends on the specific requirements and constraints of the Mantis installation. A comprehensive assessment of the available options, coupled with a thorough understanding of the potential consequences, is essential for making an informed decision. Regardless of the chosen path, a strong emphasis on data integrity, system stability, and operational continuity should guide the process.
8. Impact Assessment
The decision to modify project identifiers within Mantis Bug Tracker necessitates a rigorous impact assessment. This assessment serves as a critical prerequisite, evaluating the potential consequences and ramifications across the entire system. Without a comprehensive understanding of these impacts, alterations to project identifiers risk causing data corruption, system instability, and operational disruption.
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Data Integrity Implications
The modification of a project identifier inherently introduces the risk of compromising data integrity. Since the identifier serves as a primary key, its alteration requires corresponding updates across numerous related tables. An incomplete or incorrect update can lead to orphaned records, broken relationships, and inconsistent data. An impact assessment must identify all tables referencing the project identifier and determine the appropriate update strategy for each. For example, an organization failing to account for custom tables referencing the project ID may find essential reports broken. Similarly, historical data inconsistencies may plague future trend analyses. The severity of these consequences makes a thorough data integrity impact assessment paramount.
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System Functionality and Performance
Altering a project identifier can affect the overall system functionality and performance. Large-scale updates across numerous tables may place a significant load on the database server, potentially leading to performance degradation and temporary downtime. The impact assessment must evaluate the system’s capacity to handle such updates without disruption. Furthermore, custom scripts, plugins, and integrations that rely on the project identifier may malfunction if not updated accordingly. For instance, an automated notification system relying on the project ID may fail to send alerts, jeopardizing timely issue resolution. The impact assessment should identify all such dependencies and formulate a plan for addressing them, including testing in a non-production environment.
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User Experience and Training Requirements
Modifying project identifiers can impact the user experience, particularly if users rely on specific identifiers for navigation or reporting. An impact assessment should consider how the change will affect users’ workflows and identify any necessary training or documentation updates. For example, users accustomed to searching for issues by project ID may need to be retrained to use a new search parameter or filter. Clear communication and training are essential to minimize user confusion and resistance to the change. Neglecting this aspect can lead to decreased user productivity and adoption of the modified system. Also, evaluate if after change project ID the user experience for accessing that project remains unchanged or needs adjustments.
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Rollback Strategy and Recovery Procedures
A comprehensive impact assessment must include a detailed rollback strategy and recovery procedures in case the modification process encounters unforeseen problems. This strategy should outline the steps necessary to revert the system to its pre-modification state, minimizing data loss and downtime. The impact assessment must identify all critical components that need to be backed up and restored in the event of a failure. Furthermore, the rollback procedure should be thoroughly tested in a non-production environment to ensure its effectiveness. A clear and well-documented rollback plan is crucial for mitigating the risks associated with project identifier modifications. Also, determine possible time-frame that will take to rollback after start the process of “how to change project id in mantis”.
In conclusion, an impact assessment provides essential insights into the potential consequences of altering project identifiers within Mantis Bug Tracker. By systematically evaluating the impact on data integrity, system functionality, user experience, and recovery procedures, organizations can make informed decisions and minimize the risks associated with this complex operation. A thorough impact assessment is not merely a best practice but a crucial prerequisite for ensuring a successful and sustainable modification of project identifiers. Therefore, it is recommended to make a solid impact assessment and only do this changes in non-production environment. The final deployment should be only done if no problems were discovered in non-production deployment. If problem is discovered, fix that first then do new deployment into non-production environment for testing again.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following addresses common inquiries regarding the modification of project identifiers within Mantis Bug Tracker. It clarifies the complexities and potential consequences involved in such a task.
Question 1: What are the primary risks associated with altering a project identifier in Mantis?
The primary risks include data corruption due to broken foreign key relationships, system instability caused by database inconsistencies, disruption of custom scripts and plugins relying on the identifier, and potential operational downtime during the modification process.
Question 2: Is directly modifying the project identifier in the database a recommended practice?
Directly modifying the project identifier within the database is generally discouraged. It is considered a high-risk operation due to the potential for data corruption and system instability. Alternative solutions should be explored first.
Question 3: What alternative solutions exist for achieving a similar effect without directly modifying the project identifier?
Alternative solutions include data migration to a new project with the desired identifier, restructuring categories and utilizing custom fields, or archiving the old project and creating a new project with a different identifier.
Question 4: What constitutes a comprehensive backup procedure before attempting to modify the identifier?
A comprehensive backup procedure includes backing up the database, configuration files, custom scripts, and any other components integral to the Mantis installation. The backups should be stored in a secure location, separate from the production environment, and their integrity should be regularly tested.
Question 5: What elements should be included in an impact assessment prior to the modification?
The impact assessment should evaluate the impact on data integrity, system functionality and performance, user experience, and the required rollback strategy and recovery procedures. All dependencies on the project identifier should be identified and analyzed.
Question 6: What is the significance of testing in a non-production environment before implementing any changes?
Testing in a non-production environment is crucial for identifying and resolving issues before they impact the live system. It allows for thorough validation of the modification process, the backup and rollback procedures, and the functionality of custom scripts and plugins.
In summary, modifying project identifiers in Mantis is a complex undertaking with significant risks. Careful planning, comprehensive backup procedures, thorough impact assessment, and exploration of alternative solutions are essential for minimizing potential problems. It is highly recommended to proceed with caution and only after thoroughly understanding the potential consequences.
The next section will provide concluding remarks and recommendations regarding the alteration of project identifiers within Mantis Bug Tracker.
Guidance on Mantis Project Identifier Modification
The following insights provide essential guidance when evaluating the alteration of project identifiers within Mantis Bug Tracker. Careful consideration of these points will aid in mitigating potential risks and ensuring data integrity.
Tip 1: Prioritize Data Backup
Prior to any modification attempt, a comprehensive backup of the entire Mantis installation, including the database, configuration files, and custom scripts, is non-negotiable. This backup serves as the ultimate safeguard against data loss in the event of unforeseen complications.
Tip 2: Conduct a Thorough Impact Analysis
A comprehensive impact assessment must be performed to identify all dependencies on the project identifier. This analysis should encompass the database schema, application logic, custom scripts, and user workflows, enabling a complete understanding of the potential consequences of the modification.
Tip 3: Explore Alternative Solutions First
Before resorting to direct modification, alternative solutions such as data migration, category restructuring, or the utilization of custom fields should be thoroughly investigated. These approaches often offer a safer and more sustainable path to achieving the desired outcome.
Tip 4: Test in a Non-Production Environment
All modifications must be rigorously tested in a non-production environment that mirrors the production environment as closely as possible. This testing should validate the modification process, the backup and rollback procedures, and the functionality of custom scripts and plugins.
Tip 5: Develop a Detailed Rollback Plan
A detailed rollback plan, outlining the steps necessary to revert the system to its pre-modification state, is essential. This plan should include instructions for restoring the database, configuration files, and custom scripts, as well as procedures for verifying the integrity of the restored data.
Tip 6: Document All Changes Meticulously
All changes made to the system, including modifications to the database schema, configuration files, and custom scripts, should be meticulously documented. This documentation will be invaluable for troubleshooting and future maintenance.
Tip 7: Consult with Mantis Experts
When in doubt, consult with experienced Mantis administrators or developers. Their expertise can provide valuable insights and guidance, helping to avoid costly mistakes.
These tips highlight the critical steps necessary for managing the risks associated with project identifier modification within Mantis Bug Tracker. Adhering to these guidelines will significantly increase the likelihood of a successful and sustainable outcome.
The subsequent conclusion will summarize the key findings and offer final recommendations on the alteration of project identifiers within Mantis Bug Tracker.
Conclusion
The preceding analysis has meticulously explored the complexities surrounding the question of how to change project ID in Mantis. A direct modification of the project identifier presents substantial risks, including data corruption, system instability, and operational disruption. Therefore, this approach is not generally recommended. Alternatives, such as data migration or category restructuring, warrant serious consideration. Prior to any undertaking, a comprehensive risk assessment, robust backup procedures, and thorough testing in a non-production environment are critical prerequisites. The implications for database integrity, system functionality, and user experience must be carefully evaluated.
Given the inherent challenges and potential ramifications, organizations should carefully weigh the perceived benefits against the considerable risks involved. A proactive, well-planned strategy, emphasizing data integrity and system stability, is paramount. Only when the risks are demonstrably mitigated should a project identifier modification be considered, and even then, it must be executed with utmost caution. The long-term health and reliability of the Mantis Bug Tracker depend on a judicious and informed approach to this sensitive operation.
