> I think I'd still prefer 'flat file' to sqlite, but basically I just want something that isn't an incomprehensible blob, that I can use with other tools etc.

> I think I'd still prefer 'flat file' to sqlite, but basically I just want something that isn't an incomprehensible blob, that I can use with other tools etc. An Sqlite database may be a binary blob, but thanks to the Sqlite software being open source and ubiquitous, it's pretty easily comprehensible. Sure, not quite as accessible as plain text[1], but not far from it. So when you need something just a little bit more advanced than plain text (i.e. SQL functionality) it seems like a good compromise that doesn't -- pun intended -- too much compromise openness and accessibility. ___ [1]: But, hey, does "plain" text include UTF-8 nowadays or does it still mean ASCII-only?