How to edit an activated app

This article explains how you can replace the "code" of one app with that of another. This allows you to edit a live, activated app without deactivating app.

The problem

You have an activated app that is live and being used regularly by the public and you need to make edits to it. You can't edit an activated app (you can only edit apps that are deactivated and in "test mode"). What should you do? 

The solution

Even if you don't mind de-activating your app temporarily, it's best practice to never edit the current, activated version of your app directly (you might make a mistake and then spend frantic hours scrambling to revert your app back to its original condition).

Here is what you should do:

1. Duplicate your app;
2. Edit the duplicated version, and when you're satisfied with those edits...
3. Replace the code of your activated app with that of your recently edited "test mode" app.

Here is how to perform each step:

Step 1: Duplicate your app

Step 2: Edit the duplicated version

This allows you to keep your original app "clean", free from edits that may break it. Only when you are satisfied with your edits should these changes be merged with your activated app.

Step 3: Replace the code of your activated app

In the App Builder for your activated App, go to Settings > Code and look under 'Replace by copying'; find the App you recently edited: