1. Introduction
The subject of standardization and its relations with economic and social aspects is addressed in a large number of publications, including in particular books, research articles and other academic publications. However, there are only a limited number of studies based on recent and original field research – in particular if the scope of the analysis is of general interest (i.e., non sector-specific).
The analysis undertaken by ISO and IEC has focused on identifying studies on economic and social benefits of standardization based, as far as possible, on recent and original field research.
More specifically, given also the limitations on available resources and time, the following criteria have been applied:
- search conducted exclusively on the World Wide Web;
- identification of recent publications based on original research data (including field research);
- focus on widely referenced literature;
- priority given to items of general interest and broad impact, and to those freely available on the World Wide Web.
A considerable effort was made to update and extend the information provided in the first version of the inventory carried out by ISO in 2005-2006. However, it should be recalled that the inventory remains a working tool: it does not attempt or claim to be exhaustive, nor does it set any form of hierarchy among existing studies.
It should also be underlined that the selection of materials reflects the subjective judgement of the ISO/IEC project team's members: feedback and input is expected, especially from the ISO and IEC members, to enable updating and further improvement, over time, of the quality of the inventory of studies, testimonials and information resources.
The list of publications and resources identified is organized in three sections as outlined below.
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