New code system for defining target industries

Most B2B marketers are familiar with the Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes. These codes classify businesses by the service or product they produce. They enable marketers to rent targeted mailing lists for vertical markets.

Did you know the SIC system hasn’t been updated since 1987? The new high-tech industries that have emerged in the last 20 years do not have SIC codes. In 1997 the U.S. Census Bureau replaced the SIC system with a newer North American Industrial Classification System (NAICS) system. This system has much better classifications for computer, telecommunications and other new industries.

To learn more about cracking the classification codes go to NAICS at http://www.census.gov/naics.