What Is ISO? A Complete Guide to the International Organization for Standardization
What Does ISO Stand For?
ISO stands for the International Organization for Standardization. Interestingly, ISO is not an acronym. It comes from the Greek word “isos”, meaning equal. The idea is that standardized systems create equality and fairness across international borders.
What Is ISO?
ISO is an independent, non-governmental international organization that develops and publishes standards. These standards ensure quality, safety, efficiency, and interoperability of products, services, and systems.
Quick Facts:
Founded: 1947
Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
Members: 170+ national standards bodies
Standards Published: Over 25,000 (as of 2025)
Why Are ISO Standards Important?
ISO standards touch almost every aspect of daily life — from food safety to healthcare technology, and from IT security to environmental protection. They:
Promote Global Trade: Common standards help businesses enter international markets.
Ensure Quality and Safety: ISO-certified products are generally more reliable and safer.
Drive Innovation: Clear guidelines encourage R&D and innovation.
Build Consumer Trust: Certification signals credibility and compliance.
Popular ISO Standards
Here are a few well-known ISO standards you’ve likely encountered:
| ISO Standard | Focus Area | Description |
|---|---|---|
| ISO 9001 | Quality Management | Helps businesses ensure consistent quality in products and services. |
| ISO 27001 | Information Security | Sets out the requirements for an information security management system (ISMS). |
| ISO 14001 | Environmental Management | Guides companies to minimize environmental impact. |
| ISO 45001 | Occupational Health and Safety | Focuses on improving employee safety and reducing workplace risks. |
| ISO 22000 | Food Safety Management | Ensures food products are safe throughout the supply chain. |
How Are ISO Standards Created?
Creating a new ISO standard follows a strict process:
Proposal Stage – A need for a standard is identified.
Preparatory Stage – A working group drafts the standard.
Committee Stage – Draft is reviewed and revised.
Enquiry Stage – Sent to all ISO members for comments.
Approval Stage – Voted on by ISO member countries.
Publication Stage – If approved, the standard is officially published.
This process ensures the standards are robust, consensus-driven, and relevant.
ISO Certification: What It Means
Companies can apply for ISO certification to demonstrate that they comply with ISO standards. Certification is performed by external bodies (not ISO itself). Being ISO certified can:
Enhance brand reputation
Improve operational efficiency
Boost customer confidence
Open doors to global business opportunities
ISO vs. Other Standards Organizations
ISO works alongside other bodies like:
IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission)
ITU (International Telecommunication Union)
ASTM International (American Society for Testing and Materials)
While they all focus on standardization, ISO has the broadest international scope.