Code vs. Identifier representation types?

[kenneth.sall@gsa.gov]

Hello,

I'm looking for some guidance in distinguishing Code and Identifier
representation types. Part of my confusion is that UBL and TBG-17 don't
agree on a very common example (based on most recent online versions):

Country. Identification. Identifier  - TBG-17
Country. Identification. Code  - UBL

Given UBL definitions from
http://docs.oasis-open.org/ubl/cd-UBL-1.0/xsd/common/UBL-CoreComponentTypes-1.0.xsd
 :

Code: "A character string (letters, figures, or symbols) that for brevity
and/or language independence may be used to represent or replace a
definitive value or text of an attribute together with relevant
supplementary information."

Identifier: "A character string to identify and distinguish uniquely, one
instance of an object in an identification scheme from all other objects in
the same scheme together with relevant supplementary information."

On a U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) project, we are applying
this to numerous data elements. For example,

(a) A code identifying party receiving transmission; codes agreed to by
trading partners. Originally called Application Rcvrs Code (TXN06). We have
given this the BIE of Receiving_ Party. Identification. Identifier because
it uniquely distinguishes one party from all others.

(b) When considering the type of Indefinite Delivery Vehicle (IDV)
contract, there is a finite set of possible "brief" symbolic values that
can readily be enumerated. Therefore, the assigned BIE is Contract.
Indefinite Delivery Contract_ Type. Code.

(c) The FIPS Pub. 95 code for the agency of the contracting office that
executed or is otherwise responsible for the transaction was assigned the
BIE of Contracting_ Organization. Agency_ Identification. Identifier
because it uniquely distinguishes one agency from all others.

(d) Similarly, the US govt uses lots of "codes" such as NAICS codes (North
American Industry Classification System codes designate major sectors of
the economies of Mexico, Canada, and the United States) and PSC codes
(Product and Service Code). Since they "distinguish uniquely, one instance
of an object in an identification scheme from all other objects in the same
scheme", they should be Identifiers, right?

(e) Note that  calling (c) and (d) Identifiers goes against the commonly
used terms (FIPS codes, NAICS codes, PSC codes). Basically, UBL reserves
the term "code" strictly for symbolic shorthand elements, right?

(f) DUNS and SSN (social security numbers) should be Identifiers.

(g) Country codes and state codes should be Codes.

Does anyone disagree with any of the above representation types? Thanks in
advance.

Kenneth Sall
SiloSmashers
XML Specialist
GSA IAE Program Management Office
U.S. General Services Administration
1 Crystal Park, Mail Stop IAA
2011 Crystal Drive, Suite 911
Arlington, VA 22202
Phone: 703.872.8589
Cell: 301-672-3269
Fax: 703.872.8598


The President's Management Agenda:
"Implementation of E-Government is important in making Government more
responsive and cost-effective."
http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/egov/
(Embedded image moved to file: pic20899.jpg)

pic20899.jpg