What is standards development?
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.
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.
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.
Published
After processing all comments and approval of the final version, the publication of the standard follows. These standards are available in our webshop.
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.
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.
Help define standards that set the direction of your industry in Belgium and internationally.
Collaborate with other experts and expand your understanding of your field.
Meet international experts from your sector and related fields.
Want to learn more about standards development?
Standardisation: The Basics
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