Standards are developed by many bodies at national and international levels, which in general prepare their documents by consensus processes. Alongside the growth of international trade and technological cooperation, standardizing bodies have developed procedures and modes of cooperation which are commonly considered to constitute good practices for standard development at all levels. These practices are set out in the form of a code, applicable to governmental and non-governmental consensus bodies. The guide deals with procedures for the development of standards, advancement of international trade, participation in the standards development process, coordination and information.