Abstract: A method converts data in a database from a current value to a different replacement value. The method receives information identifying a database data field to be updated and data including a current value and a corresponding replacement value for replacing existing data in the identified data field. The method examines the database to determine whether the data field is associated with a trigger for initiating amendment of a database element upon alteration of the data field content, and/or an index used for locating said data field. The method disables a trigger and an index when identified by the examination. The method replaces existing data in the data field with the received replacement value. The method verifies successful replacement of the data field current value.