This article outlines the origins of the Diagnostic Interview Schedule (DIS) and follows with a description of its structure, the posing of questions (e.g.) with the aid of a flow chart), coding responses and editing interview data for machine processing. In addition, attention is given to research regarding the reliability of the DIS, comparability of the DIS with Present State Examination (PSE), and the discussions eminating from this research. The article concludes with several considerations of relevance for use of the DIS in Dutch speaking countries.