Why does the ‘Global Edition’ implementation guide not apply in North America?

Implementation Guides are where GS1 sets forth recommended implementation methods for only the regions that are covered by the implementation Guide. 

Different GS1 Digital Link Implementation Guides are being issued because the IP situation may be different in parts of North America from the rest of the world.

As a result, for implementations in North America, users can use local/regional Implementation Guide(s) that may be published to implement the DL Standard. To date, no Implementation Guide(s) has been published for any part of North America. 

It’s also important to note that any implementation method is at company’s own risk.