Best Practices
Statistical classifications are a key requirement for the production of reliable, comparable and methodologically sound statistics.
The predecessor of UNCEISC, the Expert Group on International Statistical Classifications, had included in its work programme the provision of guidelines for best practice in the development, maintenance and implementation of international statistical classifications.
This included general principles and guidelines used in the creation of international statistical classifications, which in turn become also applicable to the development and maintenance of national classifications.
A first version of such a Best Practice document was produced in 1999 and a new document that updates and complements the previous version that has been produced by the Expert Group.
Listed below are the guidelines on the grading criteria that a newly-developed international statistical classification must meet before it can receive the endorsement of the Expert Group and be accepted as a member of the International Family of Classifications.
Also available on this page is a draft glossary of classifications terms, produced in 2000.
Documents on this page will be subject to further review by the UNCEISC, successor to the Expert Group on International Statistical Classifications.
Documents on best practices
Standard Statistical Classifications: Basic Principles (1999)
A statement of basic principles for the development, use, maintenance and revision of international standard statistical classifications
Best Practice Guidelines for Developing International Statistical Classification (2013)
Updates and complements the previous version that has been produced by the Expert Group.
Grading Criteria for International Statistical Classifications (2015)
Guidelines for the Expert Group to assess the quality and status of international statistical classifications.
Approval Process for an International Statistical Classification (2017)
The process that the Expert Group follows when considering endorsing a classification.
UN glossary of classification terms
A draft document of classification terms approved by the Expert Group in 2000.