>In FPW i could always switch the location of tables through the file opening function and the screens and reports used the new data source.
>How can you create a form or report with a tables/views in the data environment and switch the location of the database from local test data to live server based data etc. I have tried placing an OPEN DATABASE command in the BeforOpenTables of the Data envireonment but the form still goes off to open the table which was used a design time.

I have a FAQ on how to point a form at the tables that you want. Click "FAQ" then "Forms" then "How do I ensure my forms are pointing to the correct tables ". or FAQ#7826 for PUTM.

You should be able to adapt this to your situation.