North American Industrial Classification System (NAICS)NAICS (pronounced "Nakes") is the standard used by Federal statistical agencies in classifying business establishments for the purpose of collecting, analyzing, and publishing statistical data related to the U.S. business economy. NAICS is based on a production-oriented concept, meaning that it groups establishments into industries according to similarity in the processes used to produce goods or services.
It is a two- through six-digit hierarchical classification system, offering five levels of detail. The NAICS system is good for identifying particular industries.