In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, technology standards are critical drivers of success and innovation. Business leaders must recognize the pivotal role that standards play in fostering interoperability, reducing complexity, and enabling seamless collaboration across industries and ecosystems. This was the message and the purpose for the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST’s) first Semiconductor Standards Summit.
I was fortunate to attend in person with 200 other professionals; ~800 others joined us online. The purpose: to begin defining the standards that will enable the US to regain its strength in the semiconductor and microelectronics industry. This issue is so important, Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo addressed us with a very compelling message: This IS a matter of National Security and Economic Viability and we are no longer leading. The CHIPS and Sciences Act is meant to jump start our re-industrialization; at the core is standards development.
Here's why technology standards are at the forefront of strategic considerations:
First and foremost, technology standards serve as the common language that facilitates communication and compatibility among disparate systems, devices, and platforms. As organizations increasingly adopt a mix of technologies, from cloud computing and IoT to AI and Blockchain, having universally accepted standards ensures that these technologies can work together harmoniously. This interoperability not only reduces integration costs but also accelerates the deployment of new solutions and services, ultimately enhancing agility and responsiveness to market changes.
Secondly, standards promote a level playing field in the global marketplace. In an era of globalization, businesses often operate across borders, collaborating with partners and serving customers worldwide. By adhering to international technology standards, organizations can navigate regulatory complexities more effectively and tap into a broader customer base without the need for costly, region-specific adaptations.
Third, standards help establish trust and transparency, critical elements in building strong customer relationships and complying with data privacy and security regulations. This is becoming increasingly important as the US and its allies reconfigure the global semiconductor supply chains.
Technology standards are the linchpin of modern business strategy. They enable organizations to harness the full potential of emerging technologies, expand their reach globally, and maintain a competitive edge in a world where digital innovation is the driving force behind success.
In addition to our participation with NIST, we actively participate and contribute to this conversation with our customer the United States Space Force (USSF) and its supply chain, through the Eisenhower School of National Security and Resource Strategy at the National Defense University, the Consortia for Supply Chain Transparency Analytics and Resiliency (C-STAR™), and with the development and deployment of the Commercial Trust™ Protocol in both government and private, civilian settings.
Are you ready to learn how standards can propel your mission?
Come join the conversation here.