Random thoughts on the running order prompted by
mp3 vs CD thread. Since rink policies all differ, it's difficult to have a software or script that works universally.
Suppose there is a rink side computer with a queue application where skaters can sign up for music playing. Rink policy says 3 times per session per skater, skater whose music has not played has priority over someone already played once (or 1 < 2, 2 < 3 etc.), coaches can place one pro call per session that cuts the line. I am making this up, not familiar with music playing at all. What do we need from the software for this hypothetical policy?
1) A list of skaters on ice with music. At check in (paper or electronic) skater MUST indicate whether s/he wants music played (equivalent of handing monitor a CD). Monitor looks up skater's music (actual music file or just name) from application database or manually add new music (file or name). Each skater has a unique number, If skater #024 has more than one progams, then the identifier will be 024A, 024B, ... Program only accepts currently listed identifiers.
2) Session starts with 5-10 minutes warm up where no program music will be played. Skaters go to rink side computer and key in their skater/music identifier. List is sorted by priority from high to none, first time is green in queue (high priority), second time orange (medium priority), third time red (low priority), fourth or more black (no priority).
3) Pro calls. Each coach has a different identifier, when typed in followed by skater/music identifier, it elevates the priority of skater/music as green (or depending on policy to a priority higher than green). Only valid once per session.
4) Monitor sees the live list on their screen and plays music accordingly. Checks off music as played and it dims from the list.
It may even be achievable in Microsoft Access... Query, are you up for it?