Well, as I read it, intruder replied to my post, albeit a little belatedly

I have no problems with that, as this is a hardy perennial subject if ever there was one. In fact, I was somewhat disappointed at the lack of response in the first place?

This isn't just a computer efficiency issue; it has a direct impact on the security of your financial systems.

For example, say we both grab a copy of the original record and you change the telephone number whilst I change the credit terms from $1,000,000 to cash with order.............only you submit your update after mine?

Don't ya just love third normal form databases?