Digitalization transforming quality infrastructure

Digital transformation is affecting all aspects of life and quality and standards are no exception. The current paradigm shift, propelled by data, the convergence of technologies and their interconnectedness, will continue to drastically impact quality infrastructure (QI) and related services. 

Focusing on the QI dimension of standardization, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) developed the Maturity Assessment and Implementation Methodology to assess the digitalization needs of developing countries and support their standards bodies in advancing their digitalization journey, in view of international integration. The tool aims to improve the reach and effectiveness of national standards bodies worldwide, helping them to better understand the challenges, gaps and opportunities inherent in their digital transformation journey. 

Since its development in 2021, the methodology has been implemented in seven countries, and UNIDO is currently expanding the tool to encompass all dimensions of the quality infrastructure system (QIS). This will contribute to generating a “smart” QIS, capable of supporting digitally connected networks of supply chains to enable a smart economy, sharing material and energy resources in a more efficient circular approach. An in-depth look into this can be found in “Smart Quality Infrastructure: Shaping a sustainable future”. 

As digital transformation through multi-stakeholder discussion aligns with UNIDO’s overall commitment to progress by innovation, an Expert Group Meeting was held in November 2023, convening experts—including from ISO and IEC—to validate the methodology, share knowledge and disseminate best practices. Inclusive trade for the global south – Why digitalization in quality infrastructure matters will also be a topic of discussion on 27 June 2024 during a session of the 9th Global Review of Aid for Trade.

Read more about the UNIDO Methodology here.

For more information, please contact Dorina Nati (d.nati [at] unido.org)