standardnumber

Standardnumber is a numeric identifier assigned to a formal standard within a standards system. It functions as a stable reference that enables precise citation, retrieval, and cross-referencing of standards documents across languages and regions. In practice, the term is often used interchangeably with standard number, standard identifier, or document number, though exact nomenclature can vary by organization.

Structure and scope of a standardnumber typically include a main numeric portion that identifies the standard series or topic, sometimes accompanied by additional elements such as a year or edition and a prefix indicating the issuing body (for example, ISO, IEC, or a national standards body). For example, a standard might be cited as ISO 9001:2015, where 9001 is the standard number and 2015 denotes the edition. Not all systems use the same format; some rely on alphanumeric combinations or hierarchical series numbers.

Administration and lifecycle: Standardnumbers are assigned by standards-developing organizations (SDOs) or national bodies at the time a standard is published. They are intended to remain stable for citation purposes, even as content evolves through revisions. When a standard is withdrawn or superseded, the number may be retired, retained for historical reference, or reassigned in a new edition, depending on the issuing organization’s policy.

Relation to other identifiers: Standardnumbers are distinct from bibliographic identifiers like DOIs or ISBNs, though they often appear in the same records. They provide a domain-specific reference framework that supports procurement, compliance, and regulatory reporting within the field of standardization.