This IDC study describes the top trends and predictions for information access in 2006-2007. Consolidation and convergence of several of the markets are predicted. Better security for remote use of applications, from multiple devices and easier-to-use interfaces for "BI for the masses" and "content management lite," is also discussed. Compliance will act as a catalyst to these markets, driving investment to mitigate risks as well as to improve the quality of decisions.

"IDC believes that the next two years will be a time of ferment, change, and growth in the information access software and solutions markets," said Susan Feldman, research VP for Content Technologies.