The Early Days
ATLAS.ti, a leading software in qualitative data analysis, was the first to introduce a full XML project export in their software as early as 2004. Its XML export permitted the full export of a project in a free non-proprietary and universal data format. This was a pioneering step towards universal data exchange in the field of qualitative research.
Evolution
Over the years, the need for a more robust, universally accepted data exchange format became apparent. This led to the formation of the Rotterdam Exchange Format Initiative (REFI), which eventually gave birth to the QDPX standard.