11. This chapter gives an overview to understand the data in volume 2 and volume 3. NISP does not differentiate between the usage of NATO and non- NATO standards but always strives to select the most appropriate and up to date. The classification (Mandatory or Candidate) of any standard depends on its location in the NISP, Volume 2 or Volume 3, respectively.
12. The NISP is composed of non-NATO and NATO Standards. While the first ones are adopted by NATO through the NISP. The second ones are to be considered as normative references.
13. Standards (NATO and non-NATO) are defined and managed in their life cycle by the developing standardization bodies with their own timetable. NATO standards can be in the life cycle status of study/in ratification (no yet NATO approved/expected), promulgated (valid) and superseded/obsolete. A non-NATO standard may have different life cycle status such as emerging, mature, fading, or obsolete. Different standardization bodies may use their own lifecycle status definitions. NISP takes lifecyle status of standards into account, but does not copy them into the NISP database. To inquire about the current status of NATO standards, please visit the NATO Standardization Document Database (NSDD) hosted on the NATO Standardization Organization (NSO) Website. Superseded/obsolete NATO and non-NATO standards may be included in the NISP for maintenance purpose.
14. NISP allow references to either a NATO Standard or the covering document if it exists. However, it is recommended that NATO organizations and nations reference a NATO Standard and NOT the covering document for inclusion in the NISP. IP CaT will subsequently add the covering document as well, but only for reference purposes.