The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is considered the world's largest developer of standards. This nongovernmental association liaises with the private and public sectors. The international standardization organizations of 157 countries make up the body structure. In Sweden, the central office is located, providing coordination of the activities of the entire association.
The International Organization for Standardization is called to promote consensus (agreement), which should be achieved on the basis of solutions that meet the requirements of consumers and business.
Accepted standards reflect the desirable characteristics of services and products. Thus, the development, production and delivery of products and works become more efficient and safer. Thus, the International Organization for Standardization promotes the development of trade between states, providing the technical base and the basis for protecting users (consumers) in general. In those matters relating to services and products, the norms adopted by the association simplify life by providing solutions to general problems.
Regardless of the language and country, the short form of the organ name sounds like ISO. This definition comes from the Greek word for "equal."
The international organization for standardization by its standards provides social, economic and technological advantages. For example, suppliers have the opportunity to offer and develop services and products that meet all globally accepted requirements.
The International Organization for Standardization provides accepted standards for the scientific and technological base in industries such as environmental safety, healthcare and others. At the same time, equal conditions are created in trade for all competing participants, and guarantors of quality, reliability and safety of products and types of work are formed for consumers.
Parties interested in adopting global norms take part in technical work through national delegations. They are appointed by ISO member states or collaborating associations. The latter, as a rule, include mixed groups of stakeholders. These include:
- industrial trade, consumer, industrial associations, consumers;
- academic, scientific organizations, universities;
- regulatory and government bodies.
ISO standards are developed by technical committees, which include specialists from manufacturing, economic and other sectors. Members of government bodies, consumer associations, testing laboratories, and academia can join them.
ISO national committees may have the status of a permanent participant (P), observer (O). The technical management office provides administrative support.
National delegations are called upon to represent not only the views of organizations comprising experts, but also other interested parties. According to the rules of the International Organization for Standardization, a member committee must take into account the views of all participants in the development of the norm. Thus, the technical body receives a nationally agreed position.
Regional and international associations of the public and private sectors may request granting them the status of a cooperating body in order to receive information on the development of the norm or directly participate in it. Without the right to vote, these organizations have the right to comment, suggestions on new work topics.
During each working day, seven technical meetings are held. Between them, ISO experts continue to develop standards.