IWA 9:2011 provides a framework for managing sustainable development in a business district, including the evaluation, comparison and improvement of its performance. It also identifies and describes factors to be considered when developing and evaluating the economic, environmental and social performance of new and existing business districts.

IWA 9:2011 can also be used to compare or assess the performance of business districts regarding the provisions described within it.

IWA 9:2011 does not set benchmarks or expected levels of performance regarding the impacts of business districts.

IWA 9:2011 is intended to be used in conjunction with, and in accordance with the principles set out in, ISO 15392, ISO 26000 and the standards on environmental management prepared by ISO/TC 207.