IEC 82045-1:2001 delineates the core principles, methodologies, and information frameworks essential for the specification of metadata pertinent to the comprehensive management of documents throughout their entire lifecycle. This lifecycle generally extends from the document’s inception as a concept to its ultimate deletion. The principles and techniques enshrined in this standard form the bedrock for any document management system. It is formulated as a universal foundational standard that can be applied across diverse sectors and lays the groundwork for the subsequent part 2. Primarily, the standard is crafted to serve as a reference tool within computerized environments, including Electronic Document Management Systems (EDMS) and Product Data Management Systems (PDMS), to enhance the processes of document management, access, storage, selection, and preservation, while also establishing a foundation for document exchange.