4.10 JSON Object Format

JSON Objects extend the Key-Value Format to add support for complex data types like arrays and nested key-value pairs. This format is used when the Key-Value Format is insufficient to represent the complexity, such as when multiple sets of key-value pairs apply to the same charge record. JSON Objects are also referred to as maps, trees, or hashtables.

Column conforming to JsonObjectFormat attribute MUST adhere to the following requirements:

• FOCUS dataset column MUST contain a serialized JSON string, consistent with the ECMA 404 definition of an object.
• FOCUS dataset column MUST conform to all requirements of the corresponding column definition, which may specify or restrict the shape or contents of the object.
• Object in FOCUS dataset column SHOULD NOT exceed 3 levels of nesting.
• Key in Object in FOCUS dataset column MUST be unique.
• Key value in Object in FOCUS dataset column MUST be of type number, string, boolean (true or false), array, object, or null.
• Object in array in FOCUS dataset column MUST adhere to the following requirements:
  • Object in array in FOCUS dataset column MUST be of a consistent type.
  • Object in array in FOCUS dataset column MUST NOT be repeated.
  • Object in array in FOCUS dataset column MUST NOT be null.

Rules and formatting requirements for columns appearing in a FOCUS dataset that convey data as complex, hierarchical objects.