What You Should Do
By John McCormick | Posted 2002-06-11

Even before its Compaq mega-merger, HP was quick to adopt XML database products to unite distributed Web applications. But can XML vendors build a market on early adopters?
Integrating Databases
Faced with data integration challenges? Here's how to make them manageable:
- Plan for change. There always will be more integration work to do. Be ready to move. XML databases, while not as functional as relational databases, are more flexible
- Keep hands off the data. Do an integration project at the Web level. Try not to mess with the underlying data or code
- Hire smartly. If you're thinking of using XML, make sure you have the right people and tools to do the job
- Take it step by step. Break the project down into pieces to attain integration expertise and a return-on-investment track record
- Choose partners carefully. Make sure your vendors will be around for the long haul