Which agency, founded in 1901 and part of the Commerce Department, supports standardization of items and methods both nationally and internationally?

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is the correct choice as it was established in 1901 and operates under the Department of Commerce. NIST's primary mission is to promote innovation and industrial competitiveness by advancing measurement science, standards, and technology. It plays a crucial role in developing and maintaining standards for various items and methods both in the United States and globally.

NIST is involved in creating uniform standards that can be used across different industries, which is essential for ensuring safety, effectiveness, and market compatibility. This agency supports the standardization necessary for technology transfer, economic growth, and facilitating international trade through shared standards.

While the National Bureau of Standards is the former name of NIST prior to its rebranding in 1988, its current functions and operational scope are directly attributed to NIST today. Underwriters Laboratories focuses specifically on product safety testing and certification, primarily in the United States, and does not have the broader mission of standardization across all items and methods that NIST has. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is an international body that develops and publishes standards but is distinct from an agency within the United States government.