scope:

Purpose, Scope, and Use

The purpose of this standard is to provide a uniform format for the creation of unique but compatible technical report numbers. The use of this standard will enable issuing organizations to assign their report numbers so that the numbers will be compatible in format with those assigned by others. Indexing services will be able to provide lists of technical reports by number without confusion. Similarly, libraries, information centers, and other technical report users will be able to identify, locate, and easily organize report literature according to a consistent and accepted pattern. The standard will also enable users to cite reports efficiently and accurately.

The Standard Technical Report Number (STRN) shall be used with all technical reports, including those produced in nonprint media. The report number shall appear in an upper comer on both the cover and title page and on the spine of a bound report if space permits so that a user will not have to remove the report from a shelf to read the number. A report number is composed of an alphanumeric report code (2-16 characters), a 2-character group separator, and a sequential group of 1-16 characters indicating the year, sequence of report issuance, and identifying characters for supplements, revisions, drafts, etc., as appropriate. The report number shall appear on all copies of each report.