"Balanced matrix" means that one interest group cannot be larger than the two smallest groups together, which is intended to ensure that the development process is fair and unbiased. Canadian Standards Association committees are created using a "balanced matrix" approach, which means that each committee is formed in a way so as to capitalize on the combined strength and expertise of volunteer committee members. Volunteers are dedicated people from many walks of life such as business and industry, science and acedemia, labour, government and consumer groups. These volunteers represent various groups and they must reach "consensus" before a standard can be published.