What is an Appointing Party in ISO 19650?

In the context of the ISO 19650 series, the Appointing Party is the organization or individual that commissions and funds a project — essentially, they are the client or project owner.

Responsibilities of the Appointing Party

Under ISO 19650, the Appointing Party plays a critical role in the project's information management process, including:

  • Defining project requirements (such as information needs, standards, and delivery timelines)

  • Selecting and appointing delivery teams and suppliers

  • Setting up information protocols and ensuring the right tools and systems are in place

  • Reviewing and approving information deliverables

  • Maintaining accountability for the overall success of information management

Examples of Appointing Parties

  • A government agency funding a public infrastructure project

  • A developer commissioning a commercial building

  • A university initiating a campus expansion

The Appointing Party is central to ensuring that everyone on the project understands what information is needed, when, and in what format, helping the entire team align from day one.