1. SDMX implementation at Eurostat and in the Member States
Edward Cook, Eurostat (B5) DIME-ITDG 2015 Item 6
DIME-ITDG February 2015

2. Message: the SDMX world is expanding
a growing number of SDMX projects;
expanding SDMX data and metadata flows;
growing numbers of active stakeholders.
Message: SDMX needs to remain dynamic
interest in improvements in standards, training etc.;
interest in greater flexibility in applying standards;
Improvements in the management of SDMX artefacts.

3. Message: an SDMX strategy is required
the parallel availability of SDMX versions (2.0 and 2.1);
a lowering of the SDMX barrier
- the possibility of an SDMX.csv file format;
- the possibility of a transformation service;
interest in a validation and transformation language.

4. Message: better artefact management
launch of SDMX Global Registry;
launch of new Euro Registry
- with new functionalities;
- with easier navigation;
plans for active DSD table on InfoSpace web portal.

5. Message: capacity building is important
SDMX training offered by ESTAT is expanding:
- with a wider range of course;
- with expansion into webinar training.
launch of revised InfoSpace planned;
expansion of support through the functional mailbox (about 100 requests per month in 2014).

6. Message: feedback is an important tool
An SDMX questionnaire was launched in 2014 asking a range of technical and content-oriented questions. Results have been presented and discussed (internally and with Member States) and will be used to shape upcoming plans.
Production units are sharing their experiences and concerns. This is shaping thinking.

7. Next steps: Further discussions of issues inside Eurostat;
Discussion and agreement with Member States to reach common positions;
Development of an ESS SDMX development and implementation strategy. Target of early 2016 for a draft.