Shared data elements that are hierarchical and subject to frequent changes should not embed meaning into the coding. Specific codes should be assigned by central offices. Specific retired codes should not be reassigned in order to avoid confusion. When entity changes occur there is less confusion than with a code whose embedded meaning has become outdated. Codes need not be reassigned when changes take place, reducing demands on university resources for maintenance activities.
Fewer changes enhance the use of data for comparisons over time.
All fields present consistent usage for the end-user. Use of Numeric codes will result in easier and more accurate data entry. Guidelines for Category 2 data will be determined on a case by case basis incorporating appropriate standards from categories 1 and 3. Code Ranges should be assigned by central offices for distributed use to avoid duplication of codes. Within centrally assigned ranges, units may assign codes using the appropriate guidelines for Category 3.