The International Organization for Standardization agreed on a five-year road map of progress at its 27th General Assembly last month.

The assembly was held Sept. 14-16 in Geneva. Delegates approved the ISO Strategic Plan 2005–2010, which outlines seven key objectives for the organization while defining the ensuing actions and expected results. The key objectives are to:

• Develop a consistent, multisector collection of globally relevant international standards.

• Ensure stakeholder involvement.

• Raise the awareness and capacity of developing countries.

• Be open to partnerships for the development of international standards.

• Promote the use of voluntary standards as an alternative or as a support to technical regulations.

• Remain the recognized provider of international standards and guides relating to conformity assessment.

• Provide efficient procedures and tools for the development of a coherent and complete range of deliverables.

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