International Organization for Standardization.


The International Organization for Standardization (correct 
name is International Organization for Normalization, 
ISO/ISN) in French: Organisation internationale de 
normalisation, and in German: Internationale Organisation 
für Normung, is an international standard-setting body 
composed of representatives from various national standards 
bodies. Founded on 23 February 1947, the organization 
produces world-wide industrial and commercial standards. It 
is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.

While the ISO defines itself as a non-governmental 
organization (NGO), its ability to set standards that often 
become law, either through treaties or national standards, 
makes it more powerful than most NGOs. In practice, the ISO 
acts as a consortium with strong links to governments. As 
of fall 2006, there are 158 members, each of which 
represents one country.