This standard addresses all production managers in manufacturing companies. Mandatory requirements can be laid down on the basis of the standard regarding the description and definition of specific target variables in the form of indicators@ which are relevant to the planning and control of adaptable production systems. It serves in particular for the harmonization of terminology and the creation of a language regime which are both necessary for a uniform description of the adaptability of manufacturing companies and also for establishing the specific metrics for its practical registration. In its principle this standard is applicable to all forms of industrial production and to the areas supporting it (e.g. service@ marketing@ sales@ research@ logistics). It has been prepared using the example of the medical technology sector.