This section outlines operating methods that apply to all the governance groups described above.

The GS1 Architecture Group is an advisory body to the BCS and the standards community whose primary responsibility is to develop and document the GS1 System Architecture and, by reference to the architecture, assures the technical integrity, consistency and efficient interoperation of the GS1 system.

The principal responsibilities of the AG are to:

GS1 engages with specific industries in order to understand their needs for standards, services & solutions for the improvement of industry processes. Those needs can vary within an industry and across industries though some needs, such as those to support warehousing and logistics, can span multiple industries.

The following outlines the procedure for approving standards (in between Management Board meetings):

1. The Management Board has delegated its authority to approve standards to the BCS.

2. Each Management Board member not present on the BCS may appoint a representative for Standards Approval Oversight

a. For users, this could be the Management Board member or another person.

The Board Committee for Standards (BCS) is the governing body of GSMP. The GSMP organisation structure includes BCS advisory groups to aid in the leadership and operation of GSMP. Governance Groups are accountable to, and work under the authority of, the BCS.

GSMP Work Groups are responsible for carrying out GS1 system development – developing GS1 standards, GS1 guidelines, and collateral materials that support their deployment. Consistent with the principles of openness and community development, all GSMP Work Groups are open to all GSMP members. GSMP Work Groups are the means by which community development takes place.

There are two kinds of GSMP Work Groups:

■ Standards Maintenance Groups (SMG)

Every GSMP group shall include the following designated members: