Simple Data Element
An EDIFACT syntax-structure concept defined by ISO 9735.
Definition
A simple data element holds a single value with no internal sub-structure. It is separated from neighbouring elements by the data element separator « + » and takes its 4-digit tag and repertoire from the EDIFACT directory (e.g. 1082 « List sequence number »).
Origin
Defined by ISO 9735 (EDIFACT — Application level syntax rules), ISO/TC 154, jointly with UN/CEFACT.
Example in context
In BGM+220+ORD-1042+9', the simple element ORD-1042 (tag 1004, document number) is an atomic value bounded by « + ».
Related terms
- Composite Data Element — the element split into components.
- Data Element Separator — the « + » character.