Storing serialized classes in database

We are writing a series of applications which will store a user 'profile' between sessions as a serialized object in our Oracle database. We're storing data like the output format a user prefers file downloads in and things like that. If have to add certain things to this class, I'm assuming the serialized objects in the database become unusable. Does anyone have a good solution for this? I suppose we could go through the database and somehow convert these serialized 'profiles' to meet the new class spec. How much of a hassle is that? Thanks in advance for any responses, Michael Champagne, Software Engineer Capital Institutional Services, Inc. wk: mchampagne@capis.com hm: mchamp@texas.net ****************************************************************** This communication is for informational purposes only. It is not intended as an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument or as an official confirmation of any transaction, unless specifically agreed otherwise. All market prices, data and other information are not warranted as to completeness or accuracy and are subject to change without notice. Any comments or statements made herein do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of Capital Institutional Services, Inc. Capital Institutional Services, Inc. accepts no liability for any errors or omissions arising as a result of transmission. Use of this communication by other than intended recipients is prohibited. ******************************************************************