DCL SECOND ANNUAL SURVEY
New survey shows data conversion projects moving forward in tough economy
DCL's second annual survey on data conversion, just released, shows a positive picture despite state of world economy...

DESPITE TOUGH ECONOMIC TIMES, many firms are increasing their data conversion efforts and only a tiny percentage are cutting back, according to a recent survey conducted by Data Conversion Laboratory. Those responding to the survey came from a diverse range of industries, including publishing, aerospace, military, education, government, libraries, and manufacturing. 34% percent of respondents said they planned to increase conversion/reformatting projects compared to their 2002 workloads; 61% said they would maintain current efforts; while only 5% said they would be cutting back.

Unsurprisingly, XML was the most popular format to migrate to. But contrary to what most people think, SGML remains a popular format, and was the most favored format of military and aviation respondents.

Interestingly, 100% of respondents from the aviation industry plan to increase, or at least maintain, the level of conversion they planned on. In fact, 95% of all respondents plan to increase or maintain their conversion efforts. And 58% of respondents from the publishing world plan to increase conversion work (note that the publishing industry accounted for approximately 50% of all responses).

60% of respondents said they will either outsource conversion, or rely on a combination of in-house and outsourcing.

The main reason cited for converting data was for preparation for the web -- which is to be expected as the current trend across most industries is for content to be web based. Other reasons cited were: Internal documentation, distributing data to customers or vendors, and workflow/process improvement.

Commenting on the results of the survey, DCL president Mark Gross said: "The overwhelmingly positive news is that even in tough economic times people are pursuing projects -- few are cutting back. That's great news and shows that the concept of 'intellectual capital,' which is very much driven by XML, is more and more a key part of the new economy."

DCLnews editorial
12/3/2002

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