Storing data betwen runtimes

[andrew69]

Hi, I'm looking to create a quiz program that will need to import data files and create a quiz.
Its a simple project which will have users take a timed test of 20ish questions with 4 multi-choice answers.
I will need to report how well the user performs in the test and another report advising which questions are being answered statistically etc.

Should I use XML to store all the data locally as I want the program to be on an unconnected machine, and/or easily installed on a laptop etc

[jmcilhinney]

I would suggest that a database is probably more appropriate. XML is OK for small amounts of local data but it is intended primarily for moving data between systems. There are various options for a database with no requirement for a server component, e.g. Access, SQL Server CE or SQLite. You could also use SQL Server Express, which does require a server component but that component can be distributed with your app and installed automatically. SQL Server Express is designed to be used a server database for multi-client applications or as a local database for single-client apps.

[andrew69]

OK, Im very new to developing and wonder if an XML layout would be sufficent as the program needs to be completed quickly.

<Question ID>unique identifier
<Question type>
<answer1>answer...
<answer2>answer...
<answer3>answer...
<answer4>answer...
<correct answer location>1-4
<answered correctly tally>number of corrent answers as %

<user ID>
<user name>
<user work number>
<test date>
<test score>
where a report of all tests for the specific user can be obtained as well as the current score

There maybe room to expand to a database driven design later, but for now i just need to complete the design.

Any advice would be gratefully received

Andrew