White Paper on a Reference Data Model

In the current era of real-time supply chain collaboration and real-time standard data exchange structures using cloud-based services, a more flexible and interoperable way of standardizing business semantics is required for information exchange throughout supply chains. The development by the United Nations Centre for Trade Facilitation and Electronic Business (UN/CEFACT) of Reference Data Models (RDMs) paves the way for the required new approach.
The purpose of this White Paper is to support an understanding at the executive and management level of the use and benefits of UN/CEFACT RDMs. In particular, this document aims at providing an insight into how, from the perspective of those accountable in the private and government sectors, information interoperability could be improved throughout the international supply chain.