About S1000D

S1000D is an international specification designed for the production of technical publications, though its application extends to non-technical publications as well. It provides businesses with a structured approach to processes and controls, enhancing efficiency across various documentation needs.

Initially developed by the Aerospace, Security, and Defence Industries Association of Europe (ASD), S1000D is now jointly produced by the following organizations:

  • Aerospace Industries Association of America (AIA)
  • ATA e-Business Program (administered by ATA/A4A)
  • Aerospace, Security and Defence Industries Association of Europe (ASD)


These organizations form the S1000D Council and the S1000D Steering Committee, which work collaboratively to establish standardized documentation methods used by their members and customers.

The scope of S1000D, originally centered on aerospace applications, was expanded with Issue 2 to include land and sea-specific applications. Today, S1000D supports a wide range of documentation needs, including:

  • Any type of equipment (military and civil)
  • Publication management
  • Construction processes
  • Policy procedures
  • Legal documentation
  • Organizational documentation

It utilizes data modules, which are self-contained information units stored in a Common Source Data Base (CSDB). This data storage system enables the generation of platform-independent output in both page-oriented and Interactive Electronic Technical Publication (IETP) formats.

History of S1000D

The concept of S1000D was born in the early 1980s as an aerospace standard within the ASD, previously known as AECMA. During this period, civil airline projects followed the ATA 100 specification, while military projects adhered to various national specifications.

With the advent of Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) and advancements in information technology, the AECMA Customer and Product Support Committee (CPSC) established a Documentation Working Group (DWG). This group, comprising European industry representatives, aimed to harmonize civil and military documentation practices using ATA 100 as a model.

Over time, the DWG evolved into the Technical Publications Specification Maintenance Group (TPSMG), which was later replaced by the S1000D Steering Committee (SC). The SC now oversees the maintenance and evolution of the S1000D specification, with members from military and industry across various countries.

Structure of S1000D

S1000D is organized into multiple chapters, each covering specific aspects such as the creation, management, and publishing of technical publications. These chapters guide the full lifecycle of technical documentation, from inception to distribution.

Principal concepts of S1000D

Key concepts within the S1000D specification enable a shift from traditional book-based documentation to an information-centric approach:

Data module

A data module is a standalone unit of information containing descriptive, procedural, or operational data for a platform, system, or component. It is designed to be stored and retrieved from a Common Source Data Base (CSDB) using a unique data module code.

Data module structure

Each data module comprises two sections:

  • Identification and status: manages data module applicability, quality assurance, and retrieval processes.
  • Contents: provides the actual information needed to perform tasks or describe systems. S1000D defines various information types, such as:
  • Crew information
  • Descriptions
  • Procedures
  • Fault information
  • Illustrated parts data
  • Schedules
  • Wiring Information

Common Source Data Base (CSDB)

The CSDB serves as the repository for storing and managing data modules. While S1000D does not define the functionality of the CSDB, it emphasizes the need for an organized system to manage the data modules produced within a program.

More information, Download Centre and Change Request

For more detailed information about S1000D, including access to the full specification, governance details, and how to submit Change Proposals, please visit the official S1000D website. This resource offers comprehensive guidance, downloads, and updates related to S1000D, ensuring you have all the tools and information you need to effectively implement and manage your documentation projects.