Leveraging iCloud.

[scarubia]

I've got an idea for an app which allows for a principal user to create a database and add, subtract, or modify the information within it. The principal user has the option of making that database accessible (with or without password protection) to other users of the app. Read only or read and write permissions will be granted to users at the principal's discretion. Changes to the information within the database -- regardless of who makes them -- will appear on everybody's device in real time with accompanying notifications.

Can iCloud be utilized to perform the aforementioned functions?

Is iCloud the right tool for the job?

What are the alternatives?

Is it possible for this app to work without wifi or cellular availability?

[skochan]

iCloud sharing is very limited:  http://stackoverflow.com/questions/7762792/icloud-sharing-among-other-users

Alternatives would be to use something like a Shared Dropbox folder or a dedicated server for the app.

If the iOS device is offline, data could be stored locally and synced with the server when it's back online.   Of course, then you might have sync problems or problems using old data, etc (most of which are resolved by iCloud).

Cheers,

Steve