How will this impact GDST tests and tools? Will there be a transition period? What will this mean for GDST partners currently using the tools?

The GDST’s tests and tools (i.e., the Capability Test and Completeness Tool) will continue to support XML and JSON data formats for six months after the 1.2 Standard is released; after this transition period, GDST tools will support only JSON. Those who have passed the Capability Test based on the 1.1 Standard requirements will need to re-take the test to ensure that their solution is aligned with the updated Standard.