P1-REQ-13-4-012

Return to Part 1 Requirements

Statement

The Conceptual Architecture SHALL distinguish a Data Structure Definition from a Data Structure Instance.

Source

Part 1, Section 13.4: Core Conceptual Element Requirements.

Rationale

A Data Structure Definition describes the structure, meaning, and constraints of a class of information. A Data Structure Instance identifies a populated occurrence of that definition.

Distinguishing definition from instance prevents a single occurrence of information from redefining the class of information and supports consistent interpretation, validation, and traceability.

Applies To

This requirement applies to Data Structure Definition and Data Structure Instance references within the Conceptual Architecture.

It applies specifically to:

Definition-to-instance relationshipsInformation classesPopulated occurrencesInformation interpretationInformation traceability

Verification

Verification SHALL confirm that the Conceptual Architecture distinguishes Data Structure Definitions from Data Structure Instances.

Verification activities include review checks confirming that:

Data Structure Definitions describe classes of informationData Structure Instances identify populated occurrencesInstances reference definitions without redefining themDiagrams and text preserve the distinction between definition and instance

Traceability

Related source section:

Related requirement identifiers:

Status

Draft

© 2026 Dido Solutions, Inc. and Jackrabbit Consulting, Inc.