...
P-codes are unique geographic (geo) identification codes, represented by combinations of letters and/or numbers to identify a specific location or feature on a map or within a database. For a specific place, point, or positional locations, the geo-codes have come into common usages as P-codes (abbreviated for Place-Code). These terms can be essentially interchange interchanged as long as one recognizes the focus on “position or place” for P-codes. They are also used to provide unique reference codes to refer to settlements or administrative units in other datasets.
P-codes should be made available as a preparedness activity during the development of the Core CODs (COD-AB and COD-PS). At a minimum, the taxonomy (names and p-codes) should be made available.
P-codes will be required and used at the very start of any an emergency and throughout the response. P-codes help with data coordination and provide the framework for most data collection, processing, analysis, and visualization. For instance, P-codes/names are used to create the 3W and monitoring data collection frameworks. They are used to help process data such as when processing country-specific CODs (e.g. putting P-codes for in school locations). P-codes are used for analysis such as prioritization matrix or vulnerability matrix. P-codes are also used to visualize humanitarian data in maps and charts as seen in HDX, Snapshots, Bulletins, HNO, etc).
...
There is a temptation to "over-structurestructured" the P-code system, for example, having a contiguous range of Admin level 2 codes falling within a given Admin Level 1 boundary. However, these sort of restriction, especially at the lower levels, are difficult to maintain over time and add little value to the P-code system.
...
A given P-code can be removed (if a settlement or admin unit is removed), but never re-used to represent a different place
Additions to the settlements layer can be made at any time. However, partners should be notified when this is done.
Deletions in the settlements layer , or any change to the admin units must be coordinated across the humanitarian community so that all actors switch to new versions of the admin units at the same time.
Resources
- P-code Guidance Process to develop P-codes produced by OCHA, UNHCR, and the International Center for Remote Sensing Education.
- P-code flyer (for advocacy purposes)
P-Coder toolsThese tools : these tools will analyze an excel spreadsheet and verify names/p-codes. Used when processing partner 3W or monitoring data. These can be modified to fit other country needs.
...