Archives

Organizations publish non-mandatory literature known as “industry best practices,” “recommended practices,” “guidelines,” or “voluntary industry standards.”  These differ from ANSI standards because they are developed internally by the association without the formal ANSI-accredited consensus process.  Key Characteristics:

• Voluntary and not legally binding (unless referenced in contracts or regulations)
• Focus on practical recommendations, safety, quality, ethics, or operational excellence
• Often called “self-regulatory” guidelines
• May later evolve into full ANSI standards

Organizations:

•  Young Lives  | Hands of Mercy Everywhere
• American Pregnancy Association
• Maternity Group Homes for Pregnant and Parenting Youth