"The problem is that the construction of the data specification is completely missing from all but one data integration product on the market."

Ring a bell?

"I have been working on large-scale data integration projects and solutions for more than 14 years. Honestly, I have seen more failure than success. In fact, most of my career has been trying to salvage a third or fourth attempt on a large-scale project. It's like being the kicker on a losing team brought into the game at the last second to win the game with a 60-yard field goal."

Sound like your experience?

These quotes are from expressor founder and chief scientist John Russell's blog, cooper to logan, where he has covered topics like performance and role-based development. Make sure to let John know if you think he's right on target, a little wide of the mark or missing the point entirely.

FYI, here's a list of some of our favorite blogs to watch and talk back:

• Ab Initio Underground on the newly renamed Toolbox for IT
• Mark Madsen's blog on B-eye Network
• Rick Sherman's Data Doghouse
• Loraine Lawson's Mergers and Integrations on IT Business Edge

What are your favorites? Let us know if you think there are any other DI blogs we should be watching and participating in.