Status (M/C)

Presence indicator for the components of a UN/EDIFACT message.

Definition

In the UN/EDIFACT directories every segment, group and element carries a status: M (Mandatory) or C (Conditional, present subject to a business condition). Implementation guidelines often refine this with R (Required), O (Optional), D (Dependent) or N (Not used) to restrict the standard to a specific use.

Origin

The M and C indicators are defined by the ISO 9735 syntax and listed in the UNTDID directories; the extended R/O/D/N codes come from implementation conventions (UN/CEFACT, GS1 EANCOM).

Example in context

In the UNH header: DE 0062 (Message reference number) is M, whereas composite S009 component 0057 (Association assigned code) is C.

Related terms

• Segment Group — also carries an M or C status.
• UNTDID — directory where status is listed.