A utility to parse fixed length flat files in C# using XML templates

There are many issues that need to be tackled when trying to communicate with an older system. One issue that often comes up is the fact that older systems are rarely able to export data in easily usable formats such as XML. Most commonly the systems export fixed length flat files. In this download Zach Smith explains how to use XML templates to create a generic flat file parsing utility that can be reused for many different file layouts. A sample application is included which demonstrates the ideas described.

This download is also available as a TechRepublic article.