PDF/A isn't really an "ISO Format", but there is an ISO Standard addressing
how PDF/A is used and what its intent is.

ISO was able to get Adobe to agree to put a copy of the source code for
PDF/A in escrow for 75 years to ensure it would remain a viable format for
at least that long, and that's what the Standard is based on.

Microsoft XML is **NOT** 'plain vanilla' XML, it's a proprietary version of
XML with some other gobbledygook thrown in. Anyone saving things in M$ XML
thinking they have a persistent format that is non-proprietary needs to
think again.

Those charged with the responsibility for maintaining persistent access to
content for extended periods of time don't rely on any one format, certainly
don't rely on a removable media, or any other single source to ensure that
access will remain available for longer than 7-10 years.  It's an effort
requiring constant diligence and regular conversion and migration to avoid
degradation and obsolescence of media and formats as well as hardware.

Decisions made are based on the frequency and patterns of access, the value
of the information contained in the objects, and the length of time it is
required to be accessed.  There are still plenty of situations where hard
copy or microfilm stored properly and protected against damage and hazards,
including environmental concerns, serve as an excellent alternative for the
deep stored and persistently protected format for information assets.

I doubt we will see any format more reliable than one you can view without
the need for anything more than a light and magnification source.  Storing
electronically generated content in any native format will always require
some manipulation for continued access.

Larry
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