What's the best way to store/retrieve data for a desktop without using a database?

Question

i have a question about storing data for a desktop application, if i'm to deployed an application without a MS SQL database, how could i facilitate the retrieving/storing of data. I know i can also serializes the data objects into a file (such as XML file), is there any other more efficient or effective way?

Answer 1

SQLite does very well as an embedded database. Even has .NET/Mono bindings available.

Answer 2

You could look into SQL Server Compact Edition.