Universal Data Element Framework

The Universal Data Element Framework (UDEF) is a cross-industry metadata identification strategy designed to facilitate convergence and interoperability among e-business and other complex federal standards. The objective of the UDEF is to provide a means of real-time identification for Semantic equivalency, as an attribute to data elements within e-business document and integration formats.

How UDEF works

UDEF provides semantic links, through assigning an intelligent, derived ID as an attribute of the data element, essentially labeling the element as a specific data concept. When this UDEF ID exists in both source and target formats, it can then be used as an easy analysis point via a match report, and then as the primary pivot point for transformations between source and target.

UDEF takes a list of high-level root classes and assigns an integer to each class. It then also assigns integers to modifiers and each Representation term or property word. These integers are concatinated together to form a dewey-decimal like code for each data element.

Example of property word ID

The following is a sample list of integers assigned to each representation terms or property words. Each metadata registry must publish this list of terms and their numerical equivalent.

Property word ID

UDEF Committee objectives

The current goal of the UDEF committee is to propose a standard for metadata identification, for use across the Internet in Semantic Web and B2B messaging activities, and within enterprise integrations.

History of UDEF

Ron Schuldt, Sr. Enterprise Data Architect, Lockheed Martin, originated the UDEF concept based on ISO/IEC 11179 Metadata standards approximately 15 years ago.

Ownership of UDEF intellectual property

AFEI is an intellectual property owner of the UDEF. AFEI is currently seeking to grant public use licensing, through a Memorandum of Understanding, to the ".org" non-profit that will be awarded the long term hosting and maintenance of the UDEF Registry and Repository.

The Supplier Management Council Electronic Enterprise Working Group of the Aerospace Industry Association (AIA) supports the UDEF as the naming convention solution to XML interoperability between standards that include all functions throughout a product's life-cycle and is working through a well defined process to obtain approval of this position from AIA and its member companies.

The UDEF is currently generating significant interest and activity within the standards organizations, software vendors, government agencies, and other sectors.

External links

Metadata | Knowledge representation | Data management | Technical communication