Why is RDF such a tough sell?

Hi everyone,

I am fairly new to this list but hope you can help me 
in defending RDF as an architectural direction.
About six months ago, for a government integration project we
proposed RDF as our registry data model but encountered 
significant resistance from developers, data architects and 
decision makers.  One suprising source of resistance was 
from an XML instructor who stated (to the class), "RDF is unnecessary, 
Schema can do everything RDF can."

So, although this issue has many angles, I'd like to begin with
this question, "Are RDF and Schema competitors?"  

I think this is a central issue as most current RDF examples (like 
dublin core and RSS) could be done with Schema.  My gut feel is
that current RDF applications have not demonstrated the power
of a "killer relationship" between resources (or concepts).

What are your thoughts or experiences?
Have others experienced this Schema versus RDF problem?

I am getting ready to redress this issue and I would like
to have as much ammunition as I can carry.  Of course, 
concrete examples are best.

Looking forward to discussing this,

 - Mike
-------------------------------
Michael C. Daconta
Director, Web and Technology Services
www.mcbrad.com

Received on Monday, 24 June 2002 12:25:29 UTC