What is standards development?

Discover the essentials of standards development: what it is, why it's important, how the process works and the benefits it brings for you and your organisation.

Standards development is a structured process that requires time and expertise. On average, it takes about three years for a standard to be created. This process is open, transparent and consensus-based, and it takes place in standards committees where experts from different sectors work together. You can be part of it!

Want to know more about the participants? Find out who is involved here.

Why is standards development important?

Standards development is essential. It ensures uniform standards that promote safety, quality and sustainability. It helps organisations deliver reliable products and services, encourage innovation and reduce risk.

In dynamic sectors such as technology, healthcare and construction, standards are constantly evolving to address new challenges.

Explore the different domains of standards development

The 4 phases of standards development

Standard proposal

The development of a new standard or a revision of an existing standard starts with a proposal. Anyone can submit a proposal: companies, governments, federations, sectors, NGOs, consumer organisations, etc. This is done via CEN, ISO or NBN.

Read more about standards projects

Standard design

After approval, a standards committee or technical committee considers the development of a draft standard. This is done in cooperation with national standardization bodies, such as NBN in Belgium, and their sectoral operators.

Read more about who is involved

Did you know!

A standards draft is recognizable by its name: Belgian standards drafts start with the code prNBN, European ones with prEN and international ones with ISO/DIS.

Public consultation

Anyone can comment on a Belgian or European draft standard through the public enquiry. The standards committee reviews all comments and adapts the draft if necessary.

Read more about the public enquiry

Published

After processing all comments and approval of the final version, the publication of the standard follows. These standards are available in our webshop.

View all published standards in our web shop

What are the benefits to you and your organisation?

As a standards committee member, you benefit from unique opportunities and insights that can be valuable to you and your organisation. Discover what standards development can offer you.

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Stay ahead

You get the opportunity to anticipate future changes through early access to all that strategic information. You'll be the first to know about future technological developments and trends.

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Influence the market

Help define standards that set the direction of your industry in Belgium and internationally.

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Increase your knowledge

Collaborate with other experts and expand your understanding of your field.

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Networking

Meet international experts from your sector and related fields.

Want to learn more about standards development?

WEBINAR

Standardisation: The Basics

Register for the free webinar and discover the basics of standards development - it's the perfect first step for those looking to get involved.

You too can contribute to standards development!

Join a standards committee in your field and help shape the standards of tomorrow.
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