The UN Norms are a welcome addition to voluntary corporate codes of conduct. While these codes are important in focusing on factory conditions for workers, many are not built firmly on the internationally recognized human rights standards that make up the UN Norms. Some standards are shaped more by the culture of a company than by human rights conventions. The Norms provide a common template for all companies, establishing the expectations for minimum standards for human rights performance, which can create a level playing field for all companies. [refers to Shell, Unocal, Talisman, Alcoa, Ford, Gap, Walt Disney, McDonald's, Occidental Petroleum, Reebok]