Industry Structure Model

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The Industry Structure Model (ISM, originally 'Industry Standard Model') identifies almost every role in the computer industry and describes each role at various levels, from school-leaver (level 0) to managing director (levels 8/9). It was developed, and is maintained, by the British Computer Society.

According to BCS, ISM "provides a unique set of performance standards for the training and development of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) practitioners"^{[citation needed]}. It defines ICT practitioner activities, the routes by which practitioners reach their roles, and the experience, training and development they require to become fully effective. Produced by professionals working in all areas of ICT, the ISM is based on their best practice.

The ISM is widely used outside the UK. It forms the basis of the European Informatics Skills Structure used throughout Europe. It is an essential part of the BCS Career Development Framework, a mechanism for applying quality control to the practical experience and training of ICT practitioners which is used by a large number of organisations including many major companies.

The first version was produced in 1986 as a paper publication. This was completely revised in 1991. Release 3 (ISM3), issued in February 1996, was the first edition to be produced as Microsoft Windows software. As of 2006, the current version is ISM 3.3, contains enhancements and extensions into new areas of ICT.