The objective of IDMP, to save patient lives, bears repeating, especially given the years that have elapsed since its conception: IDMP will make it easier to mine product data to safeguard patients. With that goal and a looming compliance deadline, in mind, it is time for life sciences companies to resume their preparations accordingly. Karen Harry and Amy Williams at Calyx analyse how IDPM standards will be a significant undertaking requiring careful planning and coordination across many internal functions and external partners.