ISO 21500 provides guidance for project management and can be used by any type of organization, including public, private, or community organizations, and for any type of project, irrespective of complexity, size or duration.

ISO 21500 provides a high-level description of concepts and processes that are considered to form good practice in project management. Projects are placed in the context of programmes and project portfolios, however, ISO 21500:2012 does not provide detailed guidance on the management of programmes and project portfolios. Topics pertaining to general management are addressed only within the context of project management.