ETL Does Not Address the Unique Challenges of Data Migration
As a result of the relatively limited requirements for data integration, ETL tools are just that - Extract, Transform and Load. ETL tools are designed to map the various elements of data from a source system to a target system. The schematic below illustrates the ETL approach to data migration.

The EPACTL Difference
On the other hand, the EPACTL approach offers the complete solution. What is the difference between ETL and EPACTL? In addition to ETL (Extract, Transform and Load), an EPACTL tool must also provide the ability to solve the four issues identified in the chart above:

	"All-Encompassing" Data Scope - EPACTL tools must provide a way to quickly and efficiently extract all data from disparate source systems into a flexible data repository for analysis. The data repository must have the ability to respond dynamically "on-the-fly" to changes to the data definition and structure so that adjustments may be made instantly.
	Data Knowledge - EPACTL tools must provide integrated tools for profiling and analysis, making it easy to learn facts about the data. The results of the profiling and analysis become the basis for the transformation and data mapping specifications (i.e., instead of guessing at the rules for the transformation and mapping based on out-of-date documentation, the specifications are based on the actual data content and the actual data structure).
	Data Quality - EPACTL tools must also include integrated tools for data cleansing, making it easy to identify and correct all types of data content and data structure problems. Cleansing features must include the ability to cleanse any type of data, including robust tools for name/address cleansing.
	Fast Development and Fast Specification Changes - In addition, EPACTL tools must provide fast development and must be able to accommodate fast and easy specification changes. They must also be able to efficiently reuse features from prior projects to minimize the time/cost of development.

EPACTL Versus ETL = Running Versus Crawling
Developing a migration/consolidation/conversion solution with ETL is like trying to run through a completely dark room that is full of obstacles. You are likely to bump into many objects that will severely slow your progress. With ETL you must assume that the documentation and related assumptions regarding the source data is correct. You use the documentation and related assumptions to build the integration solution. Then when you find the source data is not as expected, you react, making one change at a time. It's like finding your way in the dark, one small step at a time.

Applaud, the First and Only EPACTL Tool
ETL tools offer none of the four features described above. Applaud offers all of the above and much more.

Applaud's EPACTL Approach

Conservative 50% Reduction in Time and Cost
Applaud's data repository provides a flexible data staging area that adapts dynamically as the data definitions change. Applaud's integrated tools deliver the features needed for every phase of the project. Applaud's Rapid Application Development (RAD) approach provides the ability for low cost deployment and more importantly, fast and painless specification changes.

These unique features are the reason for Applaud's extraordinary success. Our clients consistently report at least a 50% reduction in time and cost compared to ETL tools (often as much as a 75% to 85% reduction). They also report dramatically improved data quality from Applaud's robust data cleansing solutions and name/address cleansing.

Getting Started
The easiest way to see the Applaud solution in your environment is to outsource part of (or all of) a live project to our Applaud Professional Services Group. Our hourly rates are very reasonable and you should expect at least a 50% reduction in the time spent compared to every other alternative. (Note: There is no software cost if we outsource the project.)

Our Two-Week Pilot Project offers you a no-risk way to see the Applaud solution at work in your environment. We will work on-site at your direction on your live data migration project for two weeks. If at the end of two weeks you are not absolutely amazed by our success, send us home and you will owe us nothing but our travel expenses.

However, if you are like every other organization that has accepted our Pilot Project offer, you will ask us to stay and continue working at your direction to ensure the success of your project.

After seeing the amazing success of your first project, you will be equipped to evaluate the alternatives for future projects. Your options include licensing the software and building an in-house center of Applaud expertise, continuing to outsource data migration projects to our staff, as well as hybrid options designed for your specific needs. We assure you that all of the above will yield excellent results.