At ISO, we are dedicated to driving global progress through the power of standards. Our research and education initiatives aim to achieve two key goals: showcasing the transformative impact of standards and identifying emerging opportunities for international standardization. Together, we can shape a safer, more sustainable, and innovative future. 

The benefits of standards 

Standards have a profound impact on economies, societies, and the environment. They support economic growth, foster social progress, and promote sustainability by: 

  • Helping companies drive innovation, improve efficiency, and succeed in competitive markets. 
  • Supporting governments in crafting better regulations and reducing barriers to international trade. 
  • Empowering consumers with confidence in the safety, quality, and reliability of the products and services they use. 

Our research focuses on measuring and communicating these benefits to businesses, governments, and consumers worldwide, ensuring that standards are recognized as essential tools for solving global challenges. 

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Capturing future opportunities for standardization 

The world is evolving, and so are the challenges we face. From emerging technologies to urgent global issues like climate change, there are countless opportunities to use standards as tools for innovation and progress. ISO’se und mission is to identify these opportunities and develop forward-thinking solutions that address: 

  • Technological advancements: Enabling interoperability, security, and trust in areas like AI, IoT, and blockchain. 
  • Sustainability goals: Driving progress toward the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 
  • Global health and safety: Establishing frameworks to ensure the safety and well-being of all people. 
  • Future economies: Supporting new business models and markets, from the circular economy to digital economies. 

By staying ahead of trends, we ensure that ISO standards remain relevant and impactful in addressing the needs of tomorrow’s world.

Get involved

For researchers

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For consultants

  • Apply for open RFPs and RFQs. 
  • Consult open opportunities.
  • Utilize ISO methodologies to enhance your projects. 
  • Share your expertise in the ISO Research Library.  

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For students

  • Apply for the ISO Research Grant. 
  • Access exclusive data, standards and in-kind support, including expert interviews. 
  • Gain insights into the role of standards through hands-on learning opportunities. 

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For educators

  • Access educational materials to teach the value of standards.
  • Request guest presentations or site visits to ISO’s Central Secretariat. 
  • Inspire the next generation with engaging content about standards. 

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For National Standards Bodies (NSBs) 

  • Publish your research in the ISO Research Library. 
  • Use ISO methodologies to conduct impactful national studies. 
  • Join the Education about Standardization (EaS) Network. 
  • Collaborate with other ISO members to advance education and research. 

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Together, we shape the future 

Whether you’re a researcher, educator, student, consultant, or part of a National Standards Body, we invite you to be part of our journey. By working together, we can use the power of standards to solve the challenges of today and shape a brighter tomorrow.