7. Specifications

7.1. Versioning 

Specification versioning is based on the Semantic Versioning 2.0.0 specification.

Given a version number X.YZ:

X is the major component of the version. The major component only increases when the structure of the data file changes. For example the addition and removal of fields or record types.

Such a change will always require re-working of jurisdictions’ data extraction processes.

When the major version increases the minor and patch components reset to 0.
Y is the minor component of the version. The minor component only increases when the domain for an existing field changes. For example where new possible values are added or existing possible values are removed. Should a removed value be supplied it would generate an issue but would not prevent submission of the file.

Data extraction processes may need to be updated to report against the updated domain. Jurisdictions are able to submit files without change to their data, other than updating the specification version.

When the minor version increases the patch component resets to 0.
Z is the patch component of the version. The patch component only increases to signify changes to documentation. For example, changes to a METEOR ID.

Jurisdictions are able to submit files without change to their data, other than updating the specification version.