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Discussed by the IGSN e.V. on 15 April 2013

Currently SESAR assigns IGSNs with three-digit namespaces and 6-digits for unique identification within a namespace. In the future we will have longer namespaces and fewer digits for unique identification, because most single investigators do not need all the unique numbers afforded by the 6 digits (see above for number of samples allowed by 3, 4, 5, 6 alphanumeric digits). A proposal for the workflow of the new naming convention is below.

Each allocating agent will have a two digit supernamespace code, e.g. IE for IEDA, and will have complete authority to assign any subnamespace within it. The user may chose a personal namespace that will come after the allocating agent code. e.g. HS becomes IEHS or HSU becomes IEHSU. The allocating agent is responsible for making sure it assigns unique namespaces within its domain e.g. IE, and can assign any subnamespace under IE immediately. IGSN e.V. does not enforce a set length for the total namespace, though it is suggested that the total namespace (including 2 digit code) is 4-6 digits in length.

If the user wants a namespace that is not a subnamespace of the allocating agent, then the user can request the namespace from the higher IGSN registry (though the AA), but the name will not be granted right away. The IGSN manager will be notified - if it is simple case, the manager can grant it. If not simple case, then the decision goes to the executive board, or up to the general assembly if necessary.

A module that will complete the task of namespace assignment (described above) is planned for development, pending resources.