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Using SQLite

SQLite works well as a “stand-in” database for those situations when a more robust RDBMS would normally be the right choice, were it available. SQLite can be especially useful for the demonstration and evaluation of applications and tools that normally depend on a database.

Consider a data analysis product that is designed to pull data from a relational database to generate reports and graphs. It can be difficult to offer downloads and evaluation copies of such software. Even if a download is available, the software must be configured and authorized to connect to a database that contains applicable data. This presents a significant barrier for a potential customer.

Now consider an evaluation download that includes support for a bundled SQLite demonstration database. By simply downloading and running the software, customers can interact and experiment with the sample database. This makes the barrier of entry significantly lower, allowing a customer to go from downloading to running data in just a few seconds.

Similar concerns apply to traditional sales and marketing demonstrations. Reliable network connectivity is often unavailable when doing on-site demonstrations to potential clients, so it is standard practice to run a local database server for demonstration purposes. Running a local database server consumes significant resources and adds administrative overhead. Database licenses may also be a concern.

The use of SQLite eliminates these issues. The database becomes a background piece, allowing the demonstration to focus on the product. There are no database administration concerns. The simple file format also makes it easy to prepare customer-specific data sets or show off product features that significantly modify the database. All this can be done by simply making a copy of the database file before proceeding.

Beyond evaluations and demonstrations, SQLite support can be used to promote a “lite” or “personal edition” of a larger product. Adding an entry-level product that is more suitable and cost-effective for smaller installations can open up a significant number of new customers by providing a low-cost, no-fuss introduction to the product line.

SQLite support can even help with development and testing. SQLite databases are small and compact, allowing them to be attached to bug reports. They also provide an easy way to test a wide variety of situations, allowing a product to be tested against hundreds, if not thousands, of unique database instances. Even if a customer never sees an SQLite database, the integration time may easily pay for itself with improved testing and debugging capabilities.