It’s an exciting day for all of us, as IABC announces that it has joined with the International Organization for Standardization (better known as ISO, as in ISO 9000 and other global business standards) in developing what will be known as ISO 26000, a global standard containing guiding principles for organizations’ social responsibility programs.

You can view the press release here.

Let me tell you, briefly, why this is a milestone for IABC and a giant first step for our Advocacy initiative.

First of all, as a liaison organization, our participation will help ensure that ISO 26000 clearly defines the essential role that communication professionals can and should play in developing, implementing, communicating and supporting an organization’s social responsibility program(s). This may be the first time that an objective global document (something other than a communications textbook) underscores the role of the communications professional in the organization and documents the role(s) we should play. In fact, it could ultimately be akin to “codifying” what we do and how we can add value. It will certainly rebut those business people who still parochially view communications as the “newsletter publishing department.”

There’s another element of this that I’m also excited about: as a liaison organization, IABC now has “a seat at the table” for this project. We’re are now in a position to provide the strategic communications guidance and counsel — as well as the tactical execution and support — that will contribute to the successful development of ISO 26000. We will demonstrate how professional communicators add value. And what better place to do it than in a truly global enterprise that will ultimately help many organizations make a meaningful difference.

What an opportunity… to document and demonstrate how communication professionals can add value and contribute to successful outcomes. In the context of our Advocacy initiative, this is a great way for us to improve the profile and visibility of the communications profession

I’ll be sharing more about this project soon. But right now, what do you think? Do you share our excitement? What questions do you have… and what more would you like to learn?

We want to hear from you!