Ability to Work Offline
SQL Server 2008 Express, available as a free download, gives race team members the ability to easily work in the field when not plugged into the central database. This is helpful because the global nature of Formula One racing means that engineers and other crew members sometimes work on their own in the field.
“The flexibility that we get from SQL Server Express is important,” says Spence. “Sometimes there is just one engineer with a laptop working with a driver at a runway somewhere, or doing work on a test rig, or trying out a new piece of equipment at a supplier. When out in the field, they need to have the same access to data as if they were in the garage working as part of a team of 20. SQL Server Express gives them the support of the full database with the ability to seamlessly synchronize later.”