Why types of documents and products does CLSI offer?

CLSI offers voluntary consensus standards and guidelines, reports, and a number of companion products.

• Standards are documents developed through the consensus process that clearly identify specific, essential requirements for materials, methods, or practices for use in an unmodified form. Standards may, in addition, contain discretionary elements, which are clearly identified.
• Guidelines are documents developed through the consensus process describing criteria for a general operating practice, procedure, or material for voluntary use. Guidelines may be used as written or modified by the user to fit specific needs.
• Reports are documents that have not been subjected to consensus review.
• Companion products include any item provided or sold that is intended to be used in conjunction with a CLSI standard or guideline. Examples include, but are not limited to, Quick Guides, Wall Charts, software, and templates. Companion products typically contain or refer to technical content taken directly from standards and guidelines.