ISACA is a global professional organization for information governance, control, security and audit professionals. The standards set by ISACA are followed worldwide. They offer several professional certifications, industry publications and conferences.
ISACA first started in 1967, when a small group of individuals sat down to discuss the need for a centralized source of information and guidance in the field. In 1969, the group formalized, incorporating as the EDP Auditors Association. In 1976 the association formed an education foundation to undertake large-scale research efforts to expand the knowledge and value of the IT governance and control field.
As of 2008, ISACA has more than 75,000 members in 160 countries worldwide in a wide variety of industries. ISACA claims that it is this diversity that enables members to learn from each other, and exchange viewpoints on a variety of topics. Previously known as the Information Systems Audit and Control Association, ISACA now goes by its acronym only, to reflect the broad range of IT governance professionals it serves.