We often think of standards as necessary but old and square, however they are key for innovation. Think about it, standards are crucial to help new technology interoperate or be compatible with existing technologies. For example, a new wearable device can use an existing USB cable to connect with a computer thanks to standards.
When a new technology requires a wider infrastructure to operate, International Standards help disseminate it and ensure that it’s the same everywhere. This is because standards define common parameters everyone in the world can use.
Most importantly perhaps, International Standards keep users safe in uncharted territory. Without them, many companies would be reluctant to invest in research for fear that their products would not be easily marketable at a later date. Take personal care robots, an ISO standard on this very innovative field is encouraging companies to invest in this technology because of the confidence it gives that if they conform to the standard, their products will be safe for users.
Did you find all this interesting? Join us for an informal Tweetchat on Friday 26 June at 2pm UTC+2 to discuss innovation and standards.
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