Knowledge and technology transfer through standardization
Why standardization?
Standardization is an essential tool for the transfer of knowledge and technology. They ensure that innovative technologies can be efficiently transferred into practice and promote the industrial acceptance of new methods. Nevertheless, their importance is often underestimated and many organizations and companies in Germany withdraw from participating in standardization committees. As a result, we in Germany have to apply standards that others have designed with a focus on their own interests. Fraunhofer IZFP has recognized this trend and has integrated standardization activities into its service portfolio as a strategic focus. In addition to traditional NDT processes, the focus is on innovative approaches such as intelligent sensors, sensor networks and AI-supported technologies as well as the development of SMART standards.
Advantages of standardization activities
At first glance, it is difficult to quantify the rather abstract benefits of standardization work. In addition, the results of the work can often only be measured with a time lag due to the time-consuming processes involved in reaching a consensus. Nevertheless, there are numerous advantages to participating in the creation of standards:
- Knowledge and technology transfer: Embedding innovations in normative frameworks accelerates the acceptance of new technologies in industry.
- Quality assurance: Standards create confidence in the performance and reliability of new technologies.
- Competitive advantage: Companies and research institutions that actively participate in standardization can strengthen their innovation leadership and influence new regulations at an early stage.
- International cooperation: Participation in European and international standardization committees promotes cross-border exchange and harmonizes standards.
In order to take advantage of these benefits, Fraunhofer IZFP is involved in various working groups and advisory boards of the German Institute for Standardization (DIN) and at European level in CEN.