Data export for optimization

 

We are working on an EA and we want to optimize the parameters in real time using an external application such as Matlabs or Excel. What is the best output for data, in the experience of expert coders here?

Simplest, we create a flat file that is updated every 1 second, which is read by the application.

Option 2: CSV

Option 3: database of some kind (seems overcomplicated).

The external application needs only to modify the few parameters, it doesn't need to send any data into MT4.