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The basis for standards activity is simple. A uniform, consistent product or policy (namely, a standard) will enhance quality and reliability. Money is a broad example of standards. So is language. The adoption of a uniform gage standard for railroads in the United States of America was instrumental in developing our industrialized society. The Association of American Railways' recommended practice B9 gage specification (dated 1895) is the oldest active standard in the U.S.In the U.S., specifications and standards are documents that are created by collaboration. For industry, the activity is volunteer and based on consensus. Standards are usually created by committees of interested parties, which can include members from industry, government and the public. Bob Toth, standards specialist, has identified 632 trade associations, professional and technical societies, and other private sector organizations in the U.S. alone that either develop standards themselves or work with other organizations that do (NIST Special Publication 681).Standards are written descriptions of the criteria for a specific product, process, test, or procedure that is agreed to by formal processes. ANSI, the American National Standards Institute, acts as the umbrella organization in the U.S. to coordinate standards activities and assure that a thorough and well-balanced procedure is maintained throughout the standards developing process. The principles adhered to are those of openness, due process, and balance.

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