Unified Digital Format Registry (UDFR)
The UDFR is an initiative begun in April 2009 to build a single shared formats registry. UDFR builds on years of work performed by a number of institutions internationally, whether it was for PRONOM, the Global Digital Formats Registry (GDFR), or other format registry projects. It will:
  • be technically based on the existing PRONOM system and database
  • create a community governance model for the registry involving all institutions willing to contribute to its development
  • develop a mechanism for the distribution of the registry data in such a way as to support local extensions and additions to the database
  • develop both technical and organizational support for distributed input to the registry, including some form of quality vetting of contributed data

The UDFR road map for April 2009-July 2010 is available here [PDF/A-1a].

Interim Governing Body (April - November 2009)

The road map calls for the immediate formation of an ad-hoc governing body in anticipation of the transfer of governance to a permanent body in November 2009. Pam Armstrong, Manager of the Library and Archives Canada's Digital Repository Services and Standards Office, has agreed to chair the UDFR's interim governing body. The interim governing board is composed of individuals from:

Functional Requirements for First Phase of UDFR Software (June - September 2009)

During the interim period, we are interested in hearing from individuals or institutions who might want to participate in developing the functional requirements for the first phase of UDFR based on PRONOM. The UDFR road map schedules this activity from June-September 2008. It will build on the requirements gathered by the format registry working group - see the requirements.

The institutions that have volunteered to help the interim governing body develop the functional requirements are:

If your institution would like to participate in the development of the functional requirements for the first phase of UDFR, please contact Pam Armstrong at pam.armstrong AT lac-bac.gc.ca

Permanent Governing Body (November 2009)

The plan calls for the establishment of a permanent governing body in November 2009. While specific requirements for membership in the UDFR will be worked out over the coming months, the intention is to make membership in the registry and representation in registry governance open to all institutions interested in and willing to contribute to the effort.

WIKI (restricted)