While the goal of the GDSN Network is the "sharing of standardized" data, the short term practicality of developing a global network requires a realistic migration plan. The GS1 community understands that there are local data needs and specific trading partner needs that are not supported in the global standard today. In order for the GDSN to realize the value of an interoperable network, the policy of "embracing the chaos" has been established in which a standardized process for sharing non-standard data is going to be defined and implemented. The tools for enabling this process are: 1. the publication of extended attributes which are visible to all trading partners within the Network and 2. a defined method for sharing them (this is known as "AVP" or Attribute Value Pair methodology). The implementation timeframe will be detailed in the GDSN Roadmap.

The following is a list of extended attributes grouped by each retailer. For each retailer an Excel Spreadsheet has been provided below their attributes to give additional information and detail about the attributes that are currently housed on their New Item Forms. These attributes supplement the current list of attributes in the GS1 Item standard and the GDD Fast Track New Item Form Attributes. Questions about these attributes and their usage (implementation) should be directed to the respective retailer.

It is expected that the list of retailers and the attributes on this site will change as attributes are brought into the standard, as attribute requirements change and as new trading partners enter the Network. Trading partners who wish to receive updates on changes to this site can be placed on a mailing list by contacting Brian Bennett at brian.bennett@gs1.org.