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Format Integration:

Format integration "is the validation of data elements for all forms of material, thus removing the restrictions on data elements that currently make them valid only for specific forms of material.  The result is a single bibliographic format that contains data elements that can be used to describe many forms of material.  It also provides the means for describing the serial-related aspects of any of these items as well as any archival characteristics present, regardless of the medium or form of material. . . . The MARC bibliographic formats are considered a single integrated format.  Content designation defined therein is valid in any record in which it is appropriate."

The definition above is reproduced from the publication from the Library of Congress, Network Development and MARC Standards Office, Cataloging Distribution Service, Format Integration and Its Effect on the MARC Bibliographic Format (1992).