The Global Data Synchronisation Network (GDSN): Technology and standards improving supply chain efficiency

The Global Data Synchronisation Network (GDSN)^® comprises the GS1 Global Registry^® and a federated network of interoperable certified data pools enabling the synchronisation of Party, Item, and Price data through the implementation of a set of the GS1 standards. The GS1 System was formerly known as the EAN·UCC (European Article Number · Uniform Code Council) System. The GDSN was formed from a collaborative work effort from many organisations and individuals in an effort to enhance and improve the supply chain through the use of standards-based processes for synchronising data between end users, also known as trading partners. The choreography and technology of the GDSN enable this synchronisation process to occur in today's supply chain. The GDSN and its related processes are defined and described so that the business processes and the technology that enables this business process can be more easily identified. Since the introduction of the GDSN in 2004, with 4 initial Data Pools, representing about 135 active users, the network has grown to 29 Certified Data Pools (25 active), representing over 21,000 active users. In that same time-frame, the number of items being synchronised using the GDSN has gone from about 75,000 to over 6,750,000. In addition, the Global Registry has items representing 132 different countries. In a testament to its global nature, out of the 625 possible Data Pool interconnections almost 175 are actually made, which means that Data Pools all over the world are communicating with each other through the GDSN. This demonstrates that a standards-based approach to solve a prevalent business problem is feasible and represents a viable approach presently as well as into the future as additional higher level business processes will continue to require the use of validated, synchronised information in the supply chain.