inbound - 6:19 pm on Aug 12, 2007 (gmt 0)

I think it's essential to contact the companies you are considering spending up to $50K with. Ask them questions, get a feel for what they offer and how close it is to your needs.

If you can speak to someone that understands your requirements and you are happy with the pricing, then you just have to make the call on whether the company will be around whilst you still need updates.

I'll probably be entering the US market shortly and, personally, I don't fancy paying high licensing costs for data that's been collected for Direct Marketing rather than my specific need; but circumstances are different for everyone so the decision (and any risks that go with it) is yours.