ISO 9836:2011涉及表面积和体积指标的定义和计算。 在定义面积测量时，ISO 9836:2011使用了三个测量概念: 世界许多地方使用的muros内和extra-muros概念； 世界许多地方使用的墙中心测量法； 这些方法的变化，以符合某些国家法律，或针对特定类型的建筑物。 ISO 9836:2011中定义的表面积和体积指标旨在用于实际用途，作为衡量建筑物性能各个方面的基础或作为规划辅助工具。换句话说，它们应该能够对建筑物的功能、技术和经济方面做出判断。 ISO 9836:2011旨在建立: 建筑物及其空间的几何性能规范（例如。g.设计、采购程序等。或建筑法规（如适用）； 由设计师、承包商和制造商编制的与整个建筑物性能有关的技术文件； 无法有效放置个人工作场所、家具、设备或流通的建筑面积； 评估、比较或控制与其几何性能相关的建筑物属性。

ISO 9836:2011 deals with the definition and calculation of surface area and volume indicators. In defining area measurement, ISO 9836:2011 uses three measurement concepts:

1. the intra-muros and extra-muros concept used in many parts of the world;
2. the wall centre method of measurement used in many parts of the world;
3. variations on these methods to comply with certain national laws, or for particular types of buildings.

The surface area and volume indicators defined in ISO 9836:2011 are intended for practical use, as a basis for measuring various aspects of the performance of buildings or as a planning aid. In other words, they should enable judgement to be made on functional, technical and economic aspects of buildings. ISO 9836:2011 is intended to be used when establishing:

• specifications for the geometric performance of a building and its spaces (e.g. in design, purchasing procedures, etc., or in building regulations where appropriate);
• technical documentation relating to the performance of whole buildings prepared by designers, contractors and manufacturers;
• the amount of floor area that will not be effectively available for the placement of an individual's workplace, furniture, equipment, or for circulation;
• evaluation, comparison or control of the properties of a building which are connected to its geometric performance.