Most standards organizations, with the exception of several formal European and global standards bodies that apply a system of national representation, offer their membership to a variety of organizations, encompassing individual companies, non-profit organizations, institutions, governmental bodies, etc. Although research projects as such are usually not excluded from membership, there can be several reasons (e.g. financial implications, the limited lifespan of a project, or it not being a formal entity) why membership is not an option. In these situations there are several alternatives that can be considered. The easiest way to determine the best steps for obtaining membership is usually to contact the targeted standards organization.