Specifies the structure of a data registry. The structure is stated in the form of a conceptual data model. The goal of data registration is the maintenance of the meaning, representation, and identification of units of data over time and distance. Coherence and persistence of data descriptions and usage depend on accurate documentation. The process for documenting data descriptions is data registration and the place for documenting these descriptions is a data registry. This is the second public review for this standard. It previously appeared in the January 19, 1996 issue of Standards Action and is being resubmitted now due to substantive changes to the text.