1. A system for supporting programmatic retrieval and replay of database trace data, comprising: a first functional element comprising a plurality of machine readable instructions for retrieving database trace data; a first exposed function call whereby custom computer processes can programmatically initiate the operation of said first functional element; a second functional element comprising a plurality of machine readable instructions for storing database trace data; a third functional element comprising a plurality of machine readable instructions for replaying database trace data; and a third exposed function call whereby custom computer processes can programmatically initiate the operation of said third functional element.