The term "ISM" has multiple meanings depending on the context. Here are some of the most common meanings:
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Institute for Supply Management (ISM): This is the oldest and largest supply management association in the world, founded in 1915. It is a not-for-profit educational association that serves professionals and organizations with an interest in supply management, providing them education, training, qualifications, publications, information, and research.
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ISM Manufacturing Index: Also known as the Purchasing Managers Index (PMI), this is a monthly indicator of U.S. economic activity based on a survey of purchasing managers at more than 300 manufacturing firms. It is considered to be a key indicator of the state of the U.S. economy. The survey is conducted by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM) and covers 17 industry sectors, such as chemical products, computer, and electronic products, and transportation.
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International Safety Management (ISM) Code: This is an international standard for the safe management and operation of ships and for pollution prevention. The purpose of the ISM Code is to provide a framework for the safe management of ships and to ensure that all aspects of shipboard operations are carried out safely and efficiently.
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Ism: This is a word that can be used as a suffix to indicate a distinctive doctrine, cause, or theory, or an oppressive and especially discriminatory attitude or belief. For example, "racism" is an oppressive attitude or belief based on race, and "feminism" is a doctrine that advocates for womens rights.
In summary, "ISM" can refer to the Institute for Supply Management, the ISM Manufacturing Index, the International Safety Management Code, or a suffix indicating a distinctive doctrine or attitude.