Data Mapping

XML, or Extensible Markup Language, forms the basis for a variety of data-sharing formats, which are common across a variety of applications, including web-based feeds (RSS) as well as vector graphics and application-specific uses. Designed by the W3 Consortium, XML is considered the standard language for a wide variety of modern web applications. The language developed as an evolution of SGML (Standard Generalized Markup), and gained wide-spread application after its adoption by W3 in 1998.

In many web applications, raw XML code can be displayed in a stylized format by referencing a CSS style-sheet. For example, a reference would be in the form where CSS.css refers to the style-sheet relative to a specific display function. For users who aggregate data cross the web, such as e-Commerce companies (who aggregate pricing, shopping and coupon information), as well as news and media organizations (who provide real-time feeds), XML is a way to facilitate data sharing across a virtually unlimited set of partners; each end-user can display (format) the data in the context of their individual site design.

While aggregation of public data is one application of XML, many companies use the language to distribute private data across intranets. For this purpose, the data may be encrypted so that it can only be read by users who have a data key. The standard format of encryption is known as XML-Enc, which helps safeguard data such as XBRL (Business Reporting) financial data; XBRL is commonly used to transmit banking data. As XML has gained widespread adoption, including becoming an ISO standard, it continues to develop and evolve along with improvements in end-user applications.