Categories and Acronyms

Industries have been classified using systems of numerical codes.  Catalogs for each of these can be found in business sections of public libraries.

A system of 6-digit codes is the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS, pronounced “nakes”).  Founded in 1993 and revised in 2012, NAICS classifies 1,170 industries. Learn more at http://www.bls.gov/bls/naics.htm

A 4-digit system of codes is SIC (Standard Industrial Classification).  Begun in the 1930s, this system classifies 1,004 industries. Learn more at http://www.naics.com/search.htm

Home Networks and THNC represent a new concept, so they have no established industry classifications.  Let’s look for codes that classify “a nonprofit corporation organized to educate the public about technology in their homes.”

In NAICS, perhaps 541712 — “Physical science research and development laboratories or services (except biotechnology research and development).”

In SIC, perhaps 8299 — “Schools and educational services NEC (not elsewhere classified)” or 9411 “Administration of Educational programs.”

In NTEE, perhaps U99 — “Science & Technology NEC (not elsewhere classified)” — “Use this code for organizations that clearly provide science and technology research services where the major purpose is unclear enough that a more specific code cannot be accurately assigned.”