This year, the iiRDS Consortium has made remarkable strides in advancing the intelligent information Delivery and Request Standard. 

1. Advancing the "Request" Component of iiRDS
   The "R" in iiRDS—representing the "Request" aspect—has been a focal point this year. In June, the Request API specifications were finalized and published, providing a standardized framework for intelligent information requests. This was further bolstered by the release of an API mockup in November, offering developers a hands-on tool to explore its functionality. For more details, visit the Request API page.

2. DITA-OT Plugin Released
   March marked the launch of the iiRDS DITA-OT plugin, a powerful tool enabling seamless integration of iiRDS into DITA-based workflows. This plugin generates iiRDS packages from a DITA map or a single topic, simplifying the adoption of iiRDS by allowing organizations to integrate the standard directly into their existing content creation and management processes. Learn more about the plugin on the DITA Plugin page.

3. Progress Toward a New Version of iiRDS
   The Consortium is actively working on the next version of iiRDS, expected to be published in the second quarter of 2025. This update will incorporate enhanced features and address evolving requirements to better meet the needs of modern information management.

4. Collaboration with the Digital Data Chain Consortium (DDCC)
   A key highlight of 2024 is the collaboration with DDCC to create a unified standardization framework. In November, a New Work Item Proposal was submitted to the DKE, based on IEC PAS 63485:2023 Intelligent Information Request and Delivery – A Process Model for the Exchange of Information for Use. This proposal integrates updates from iiRDS and VDI 2770, aiming to develop a comprehensive international standard.

5. Engagement in Broader Standardization Efforts
   The iiRDS working groups and iiRDS Ambassadors have been involved in various initiatives, fostering cooperation with organizations such as digital Standards Initiative (IDiS), Industrial Digital Twin Associations (IDTA), and Industrial Ontologies Foundry (IOF). These collaborations aim to align iiRDS with other standards and projects, ensuring interoperability and broader adoption.

6. Expanding iiRDS Integration and Supporting Documentation
   The iiRDS working groups are also focusing on integrating iiRDS into all relevant domains and creating support documentation to simplify its implementation. Efforts are underway to connect iiRDS to top-level ontologies, such as IOF and BFO, facilitating seamless integration. Additionally, tasks like SKOS labeling and mapping are being undertaken to align terminology and integrate iiRDS with Product Information Management (PIM) systems. These initiatives aim to make iiRDS more versatile and accessible for diverse applications.

Sharing Knowledge and Insights

The latest developments in iiRDS were showcased during the “iiRDS Latest Developments” presentation at the tcworld conference in November. The presentation offered attendees a comprehensive overview of the progress made and upcoming plans. For those who missed it, a recording is available on the iiRDS YouTube channel.

As the year concludes, the iiRDS Consortium continues to pave the way for smarter, more efficient information exchange. Stay updated on future developments and subscribe to the iiRDS newsletter.