Since the 1950s, the world's population has more than doubled. Around half the population live in urban areas, increasing the need for construction and infrastructure. The construction industry is constantly being challenged with demands of higher effectiveness and better profitability, and new demands emerge as the globalisation and international trade expand. The standards developed under ISO/TC 59 address these demands and benefit the entire industry. They also provide frameworks that other construction-related committees can build on in their work.

Created in 1947, ISO/TC 59 has so far developed 134 International Standards. Topics range from terminology, organization of information technology in building and civil engineering processes, geometric requirements for buildings, to building elements and components including modular coordination, general rules for joints, tolerances and fits, and performance requirements. The committee's standards also address key issues such as sustainability, accessibility and service life.