Background Paper:  A document providing relevant facts and information on a specific standard, topic, issue, technology, legislation, statute, decision, development, policy or practice that is of interest to the property records industry.

Best Practice:  A method or technique that has consistently shown results superior to those achieved with other means.  A “best” practice can evolve as experience and research develop. A practice is used to maintain quality as an alternative to mandatory legislated standards and can be based on self-assessment and benchmarking.

Model Legislation:  A text that is meant to serve as a guide for subsequent legislation. Not usually meant to be enacted exactly as it is written, it is provided for the various legislatures to create their own law.