Overview
ISO 7220:1996 - Information and documentation - Presentation of catalogues of standards - provides guidance on the arrangement and presentation of catalogues of standards (and standard‑like publications) to make them easy to use. It sets out what bibliographical data to include, how the catalogue should be structured, and recommended user guidance and updating procedures. The standard is focused on printed/catalogue presentation and does not apply to card‑file catalogues or computer databases.
Key topics and requirements
- Bibliographical information: Catalogues should list relevant fields such as reference number, title and subtitle, responsible organization, edition, series or other identifiers, place and publisher, date, errata/amendments, physical form, language, extent (pages), ISSN/ISBN and price (when available). Supplementary data may include translations, legal status, harmonization, confirmation/withdrawal and classification.
- Catalogue structure: Main elements recommended are:
- Title leaf (with date/validity per ISO 1086)
- Contents list (per ISO 18)
- User guidance (foreword, ordering info, how to use)
- Schematic presentation of the subject scheme
- List of publications arranged in subject order
- Numerical index and alphabetical index(es)
- Miscellaneous sections (e.g., withdrawn publications, translations, committee indexes)
- Subject ordering and classification: Use an international classification (e.g., Universal Decimal Classification or ISO International classification of Standards) where possible, unless the target audience requires a different ordering.
- Indexes: Indexes must follow ISO 999 guidance; include a numerical index when items have reference numbers and at least one alphabetical index with cross‑references.
- Identification: Catalogues should be assigned an ISSN and/or ISBN in accordance with ISO 3297 and ISO 2108.
- Updating: Describe updating procedures. Prefer regular updates - via supplements, revised editions, or loose‑leaf inserts - and state validity or update frequency in the foreword.
Applications and users
ISO 7220 is practical for organizations that produce or manage listings of standards:
- Standards bodies and publishers preparing national or international standards catalogues
- Documentation centres, libraries, and information services assisting users to locate relevant standards
- Procurement, regulatory, and compliance teams needing reliable references to required standards
- Manufacturers, design offices, and research centres who consult catalogues to determine applicable standards
Following ISO 7220 improves discoverability, usability, and consistency of standards catalogues, making it easier for users to identify, interpret and obtain standards.
Related standards
Normative and related references cited include:
Keywords: ISO 7220:1996, catalogues of standards, presentation of catalogues, bibliographical information, subject order, indexes, ISSN, ISBN, standards catalogue.
