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Originally Posted by SeriousPHP
I finally gave up on the idea of normalizing data in more than a few systems as it was just not worth it. On the other hand after looking at the data from the current Las Vegas MLS I was stunned that the data seemed to be nearly all in uniform structure as if the entry form was mostly select boxes. This is the only way that useful data can be maintained.
In systems like this there is minimal chance for incorrect data to make it to the visitor with the exception of data entry. In free text systems the only way to normalize data is through the use of intelligent pattern matching which is far beyond what most individual offices would pay for the service. The unfortunate problem is that services who should be leveraging economies of scale to tackle the data integrity problem do not always do so.
But then again all those people make more than I do.
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The Interealty Las Vegas datalink yields much better data and is more organized than others such as Fnis.
The real problem is the limitations place on the use of any datalink by the specific local boards. Each Board has a list of accepted fields making writing a generic IDX a difficult task to say the least.
There are very few 'universal' categories, thus requiring a significant number of custom fields to allow for the mapping. Of course the more custom work involved the higher the cost.
Additionally, with the competitive nature of programming these days even the programmer does not come out on top. Programmers end up bidding too low then produce a poor or less than functional product. The Broker ends up paying more than he budgeted and received less than expected while the programmer barely makes wages.
So all too many programs are produced that fall short of the Brokers expectations, yet are still not very profitable for the Programmer. A lose – lose proposition for all parties involved in most cases I’m afraid.
~VegasMack
Linear Mode
