Cross-Network Directory Service: Infrastructure to enable collaborations across distributed research networks.

Introduction: Existing large-scale distributed health data networks are disconnected even as they address related questions of healthcare research and public policy. This paper describes the design and implementation of a fully functional prototype open-source tool, the Cross-Network Directory Service (CNDS), which addresses much of what keeps distributed networks disconnected from each other.

Methods: The set of services needed to implement a Cross-Directory Service was identified through engagement with stakeholders and workgroup members.