GS1 Architectural Principles

This document sets out the architectural principles that underpin the GS1 system. It provides information and guidance to all those involved in the development and maintenance of the GS1 system by providing a shared understanding of the principles of the GS1 System Architecture. It also provides users of the GS1 system, and anyone else with an interest in the subject, an insight into the foundational ideas that inform the design of the system.

Main sections:

· Business value

· Conformance

· Consistency

· Deprecation

· Extensibility

· Forward looking

· Global multi-sector standards

· GS1 identification keys

· Interoperability

· Non-duplication

· Non-significance of keys

· Open supply chains and value networks

· Re-use of components

· Royalty free

· Scalability

· Security

· Simplicity

· Technology independence

· Third-party standards

· Vision and mission