Composite Data Element

An EDIFACT syntax-structure concept defined by ISO 9735.

Definition

A composite data element is a structure that aggregates two or more component data elements separated by the component separator « : ». Its components are declared in the composite repertoire of the EDIFACT directory (e.g. C082 « Party identification details »), and each may be mandatory or conditional.

Origin

Defined by ISO 9735 (EDIFACT — Application level syntax rules), published by ISO/TC 154 and maintained jointly with UN/CEFACT.

Example in context

In the NAD segment, composite C082 carries the identifier and its scheme qualifier: NAD+BY+5412345000013::9' (composite C082 = 5412345000013::9).

Related terms

• Simple Data Element — the non-composite element.
• ISO 9735 — the syntax rules.