Match Me

I need a database to be developed and linked into a website.

Database
I can best describe its function by comparing the similarity of the business to a dating agency in which there are 2 types of user selecting choices from predetermined lines of text.

User selections are to be made by:
- giving themselves a rating (eg “I have an outgoing personality”, please accept by giving a high-low rating score of “1 to 5”).
- clicking on a (“yes/no”) box
- selecting from a pre-set list (eg “Town” where they live)

The database needs to link into the user’s “My Account” page on the website.
- There are about 500 lines of predetermined text choices, split into lots of sub-headings.
- The users are unlikely to select more than 100 lines each.
- The system will need a search and match function, matching User 1 data against User 2 data and comparing ratings using a simple statistical significance model
- The “My Account” details need to be protected by a firewall for confidentiality purposes (and Data Protection Act reasons)

I have drafted the model on Excel, as I’m familiar with that system.

I don’t think I need a Keyword search function, since the users will not be entering any data that is not pre-set.

Bells and Whistles
I also need incorporated:
- a billing system that charges fees to User 1 by credit card / debit card
- a Promotional Code system that credits user accounts with a commission for introductions
- an email alert system advising users of new matches
- onscreen viewable reports, giving users a summary of the data entered

Other Points
The database needs to be flexible as I expect it to evolve significantly. More sub-headings and lines will certainly be needed, dependent upon user suggestion.

I will need to undertake a marketing campaign. It would be useful if you have internet marketing experience, so that any specific functions could be incorporated into the model from the outset.

The Website
This will consist of 8 pages, being:
- Home, How it works for User 1, How it works for User 2, News, About Us, Contact Us, Site Statistics, My Account

I’m not after anything flashy. I’m thinking of a standard £399 BT package for beginners. I’d construct it myself, if need be, though I’d prefer someone with experience to do it quicker and with more style.

Quote
I would like to know your thoughts on:
- which program you would use to construct the database ?
- do you already have a similar model that could be adapted ?
- which program you would use to construct the website (eg Dreamweaver?) or would the standard BT website package for beginners suffice ?
- how long it might take to construct the database and website ?
- how long it would typically take to test the database system with test data, following initial construction ?
- how much you would charge on a hourly/daily/project basis.