IMO DATA SET

Introduction

The IMO Data Set consists of IMO data elements which are grouped into individual data sets. The Data set overview shows the cross-section where each IMO data element is used in the individual data sets.

It also includes data elements which are required for electronic data exchange, such as the message header timestamp, unique identifiers and other requirements for message tracking and machine-to-machine communications.

The Change Indicator column shows the status of the data element in that row to help maintain the history of changes to the data set. The change indicator meanings are:

.1    a plus sign (+) for an addition to the data set since the last edition;

.2    a minus sign (-) for a deletion from the data set since the last edition; and

.3    an asterisk sign (*) for changes to a data element since the last edition.

.4    a cross sign (x) for a deletion from the Compendium since the last edition.

The Data Number column shows the unique number assigned to each data element for reference. The "IMO" prefix identifies the source of the data element and distinguishes it from other data model elements. 

The Data Element column shows the standard name of each data element.

The Definition column shows the Organization’s definition of each data element. Note, these definitions seek to satisfy technical details and be specific if possible so that the system or software designer can determine the specific format detail requirements.

The Format column shows the recommended format of each data element for electronic data exchange purposes. 

The format indicator meanings are:

a     alphabetic characters

n    numeric characters

an     alphanumeric characters

a3     3 alphabetic characters, fixed length

n3     3 numeric characters, fixed length

an3     3 alphanumeric characters, fixed length

a..3     up to 3 alphabetic characters

n..3     up to 3 numeric characters

an..3     up to 3 alphanumeric characters

n..11,3     up to 11 numeric characters of which 3 positions for a decimal

Examples for a n..11,3 type:

12345678.123         (Valid)

123456789.123    (Invalid – too many digits before decimal point and too many digits in total)

12345678.1234    (Invalid – too many digits after decimal point and too many digits in total)

Numerical fields should be either a cardinal value (integer value) or a decimal value. The decimal separator is the decimal point "." and no other symbols are permitted as a decimal separator. The decimal notation (with the decimal point) should only be used to indicate required precision. Triad separators, such as a comma, should not be used.

The Code Lists column identifies the source of specific standardized codes for the data element in that row. An example is ISO standard 3166-1, which provides the internationally agreed list of two-character country codes for the representation of names of countries and their subdivisions. The Code Lists under the maintenance responsibility of IMO are set out in the section Codes maintained by IMO. In some cases, the code list does not exist yet and/or is under development and is identified as "To be defined".

The Business Rule column identifies recommended procedures for satisfying specific data element formats and requirements by referencing a relevant business rule listed in
the Implementation business rules section.