Overview
EN ISO 19156:2023 - Geographic information: Observations, measurements and samples (ISO 19156:2023) defines a conceptual schema for describing observation acts and their results in a consistent, interoperable way. Prepared by ISO/TC 211 and adopted by CEN, this standard provides models for exchanging information about observations, the features involved in observation processes, and the features used for sampling. It replaces the 2013 edition and focuses on externally visible interfaces without constraining underlying implementations beyond required interface specifications.
Key topics and requirements
- Conceptual schema for observations: Standardized models to describe observation acts, measurement results, and the relationships between them for reliable information exchange.
- Features involved in observation: Definitions for entities participating in the observation process (e.g., procedures, sensors, systems, and observed properties).
- Sampling and sample features: A common set of sample types categorized by spatial, material (ex situ), or statistical nature.
- Sample relationships: Models for sub-sampling and derived samples, supporting traceability and lineage of physical and virtual samples.
- Interface focus: Emphasizes externally visible interfaces and data exchange models; does not mandate internal implementations beyond interface conformance.
- Interoperability: Provides a common vocabulary and structure to enable data sharing across scientific and technical communities.
Practical applications
- Environmental monitoring (air, water, soil) - harmonizing measurement records and sample lineage.
- Remote sensing and in-situ integration - linking satellite/airborne observations to ground truth samples.
- Laboratory and field data management - recording sampling procedures, derived samples, and measurement results.
- Citizen science and multi-agency projects - enabling consistent exchange of observational data between stakeholders.
- GIS data systems and sensor networks - standardizing observation metadata for services and APIs.
Who uses this standard
- GIS architects and data modelers building observation and sensor data systems.
- Environmental scientists, ecologists, hydrologists, meteorologists managing measurements and samples.
- Remote sensing professionals linking observations to ground samples.
- Software developers implementing interoperable observation services and APIs.
- Standards bodies and data custodians ensuring compliant data exchange.
Related standards
Commonly used with other ISO geospatial standards (ISO 191xx series) such as ISO 19115 (geospatial metadata) and ISO 19107 (spatial schema) to provide end-to-end interoperability for observation datasets and services.
Keywords: ISO 19156, EN ISO 19156:2023, geographic information, observations schema, sampling, sample types, observation data exchange, interoperability.
