IAR field - IARN
Mandatory: YES
Repeatable: NO
The unique reference given to all IAR records.
Examples
IARN code followed by machine generated running number
IARN: CA100-0000021
IARN code followed by ISBN
IARN: NS000-0-85039-2444-6
IARN code followed by Command Paper number
IARN: DE000-CM3814
Notes
HMSO will issue a 5 character code to each organisation, e.g. CA000 for the Cabinet Office. This will be the organisation’s "IARN code". If you don’t know your organisations code contact OPSI who will be able to advise.
Each organisation is then responsible for allocating an internal number or letter combination to each record. This second part of the IARN must be unique within the department; it could be a machine generated running number, ISBN, Command Paper number, file number etc. When the IARN code and the internal number are put together they will form a unique identifier for each IAR record.
Separate the two parts of the IARN with a dash.
The IARN is connected to the IAR record, not the information itself. It may be useful to connect the two where this is practical, e.g. by adding it to the metadata of a document or database, or printing it on the back of a leaflet.