Mixed messages on exporting and importing benefits configuration

Summary:

I've received mixed messages on whether its okay to export and import a benefits program (specifically in relation to open enrollment changes) vs re-keying all the configuration in production. Last year I did it successfully - I had to move UDT's separately, but all the configuration including 12 new plans was taken care of by the export/import. I was later told by a consultant that that is NOT best practice, though it was someone at the same consulting firm who told me there was no problem in doing it (and it did work). This year I have