FreeLists / oracle-l / Multiple installed versions of Oracle

["Tracy Rahmlow" <tracy.rahmlow@xxxxxxxx>]

We are in the process of upgrading several databases from 8i on AIX 4.3.3 
to 9 on AIX 5.2 or 10g on AIX 5.2.  The target version depends upon 
whether or not the application is supported on 10g or not.  If not will be 
migrating toward 9.
The manager of the unix area has indicated that he has seen issues at his 
previous shop with co-locating multiple versions of Oracle on the same 
server and is basically not allowing the practice.  I have never seen or 
heard of this issue, but am trying to remain open-minded to his concern. 
Here are his statements verbatim:

Several occasions where server and db crashed due to dba administering db 
in an incorrect manner.  IE mistook one version for the other.  Applied 
the incorrect maintenance patch to the incorrect instance.

Several occasions where db versions did not play nice together 7.3.4 and 
8i.

All occasions impacted SLA's and one instance required restore of db due 
to corrupt data.

I also contacted two DBA Manager friends and they are aware Oracle 
supports this strategy, however, both shops have standards in place that 
do not permit this practice - due primarily to the above incidents and to 
keep the environments simple / less complex.  Does this make the planning 
of upgrades and maintenance a little more difficult - yes, but they both 
agreed that this best practice has solved many headaches and saved many 
hours of work.

Prior to his arrival we did have success running 7 and 8 on the same 
server.  Frankly, I do not think the restriction is warranted.  So what 
are your thoughts?  And if you agree with me help me make a case for 
changing his mind.  To complicate matters, he has more authority than me. 
Thanks



Tracy Rahmlow
The American Express Property Casualty companies
3500 Packerland Drive
DePere, Wisconsin 54115-9034
tel:  920-330-5164
fax: 920-330-5350
American Express made the following
 annotations on 04/05/05 07:58:11
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