Lecture Post 5: Databases

Pace Mate is a program that uses motion-sense technology to gauge a runner's stride and pace. The program then selects songs of a matching tempo and generates a playlist. Pace Mate ensures the songs listened too actually match the tempo of the run, creating a more effective, enjoyable workout.

In the long-term it may be most beneficial for Pace Mate to have its own database. The main purpose of the product is to provide music and playlists that match a runner's pace, but further value can be added through additional features such as tracking mileage, pace, and heart rate over time. A database would allow Pace Mate to manage large amounts of data from many users. It would also increase the speed and ease of use for a user trying to access their stored data. Tables would help organize the data and maintain its accuracy, especially as the product gains popularity.

Using a database could also give Pace Mate the chance to generate more revenue by providing market research. Having information logically stored as primary and foreign keys would allow the company to perform queries to determine the characteristics of certain individuals. For example, they could determine how far a 50 year old typically walks and whether they walk or run. This information could then be used by, for example, shoe manufacturers to determine who they should be marketing which products to.

Finally, a database would allow Pace Mate to be more competitive in the technological/application market. Online services such as Facebook, Twitter, and Bank of America all use databases. By having its own, Pace Mate could develop a strong product and have greater control over its information. In relation to the "view" of the data, Pace Mate could control the organization of its data and make it as user-friendly as possible, similar to the organizational structure adopted by Zappos. A product that is easy to navigate and customize will result in happier, and thus more, customers.