Glossary Terms

API stands for Application Programming Interface, the connection point through which data providers and consumers transport data. It is like the set of plugs on the back of a television that enable different kinds of digital media to be transported into and out of the TV.

Data elements described in RESO standards include resources, fields and lookups.

FTP is a file transfer standard for moving static files from one computer to another. This was a primitive way to transport files in legacy real estate data processes.

A GUI represents the front-facing and/or visual side of a web-based product.

HTTP is a communications protocol used to connect web servers on the Internet. Its primary function is to establish a connection with the server and send HTML pages to a user’s browser. It is also used to download data from the server either to the browser or to any requesting application that uses HTTP.

A lookup (aka enumeration) is a field that contains multiple options to select from, like a dropdown menu or multi-select checklist.

Metadata is “data about data.” It is descriptive information about a particular data set, similar to a menu of what’s available.

A Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is an organization made up of real estate brokers that form a cooperative. The role of the MLS is to create and enforce rules for sharing information about properties and professional duties for interactions with one another and consumers. MLSs create broad access to real estate information, inventory and opportunities to buy, sell, rent and invest in real estate. They provide access to housing for communities and consumers, and they are drivers of economic activity.

More Info on What is a Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and How Many MLSs Are There?

An open technology standard is a set of rules, or protocol, that is available to be accessed and implemented by anyone without restrictions. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are examples of open standards. They promote interoperability between different systems or products. An open standard’s development typically involves consensus among stakeholders to ensure widespread acceptance and use. Open standards play a crucial role in fostering innovation and competition by providing a level playing field for technology developers and users alike.

An RCP is a document that includes a possible rule change to the specified technical document. Once voted on and approved, the change described would be implemented into the standard.

A server is the central computer system and the data provider containing the desired information. A server handles requests from clients, applies business rules and other limitations on those requests (through filtering), and provides a valid data response back to the client.

Versioning is a mechanism to track changes in content. Versioning refers to the number associated or applied to the standard; for example, Web API Core 1.0.2, 2.0.0, and 2.1.0. RESO uses semantic versioning (SemVer) to standardize the way software versions are assigned and incremented. It follows a three-part numbering system: MAJOR.MINOR.PATCH. Major increments are for incompatible or breaking changes. Minor increments are new functionality added in a backward-compatible manner. Patch increments are backward-compatible bug fixes.

Virtual Office Website (VOW) is a set of rules that allow an MLS’s real estate brokers to access data feeds that include the MLS’s other brokers’ listings and display them to registered customers of the brokerage.

XML is a custom markup language used by many general-purpose applications to exchange information. The tags used within XML are not predefined and can be anything that correctly describes the data. Data in this format is easy for a program to consume and use, regardless of the operating system or programming language used.