> The problem with this approach is that things like backups and other DB
> utilities (such as a batch reporting system, separate "view only"

tool that

> you provide, server info/maintenance tool) also use connections

which may

> give a false impression of the number of active users.
>

Hello, it's not a problem, we have two additional users:
one for view only tools - that have granted select only for necessary
tables, and insert for two tables (log, requests for reservation)
second for backups - select for all tables, no inserts, no updates

And we count only our Editable users - so no problem.

Tom