Convergence and harmonization of standards organizations

Abstract

Accredited and non-accredited standards organizations, commonly referred to as ldquoSDOsrdquo and ldquoSSOsrdquo respectively, are more alike than usually thought. Both rely on volunteers to provide their time and effort and to apply their domain expertise to create industry, national, and international standards. Both face similar challenges with regards to IPR issues, governance, business models, membership recruitment and retention, and promotion of work products. Accreditation by itself is not a valid distinguishing feature; many unaccredited organizations are fully qualified to become accredited and would do so if only they saw the need or benefit. The perceived differences between these types of organizations, while loosely based on historical practices, depend mostly upon whom one asks. In addition, the two types of organizations are becoming more like each other as their practices become more closely aligned and as they reach out to work with each other, recognizing the value of each otherspsila efforts.