Document Type

Thesis

Date of Award

5-31-1985

Degree Name

Master of Science in Management Engineering - (M.S.)

Department

Industrial and Management Engineering

First Advisor

John Mihalasky

Abstract

This thesis is a result of an in-depth study of the standardization and certification process in various countries throughout the world. The study was undertaken due to the general lack of readily available information on the subject and problems the author encountered while involved in standardization and certification activities at his previous place of employment.

The thesis discusses product and process standardization and certification and its impact on electronic systems manufacturers. First, the need for standardization and certification is established and its history is reviewed, then the various types and classifications are addressed. Subsequently, standardization in the United States, in various foreign countries, and on the regional and international levels is discussed in three separate chapters. Chapter V describes many of the problems associated with standardization and certification as well as some current efforts to resolve them. Chapter VI details a number of proposed short and long range solutions to the problems at various levels of the standards hierarchy. The future of standardization and certification, the benefits of involvement and the consequences of non-involvement are outlined in the last chapter.

The information presented in this thesis was gathered over the period of years from various sources ranging from the government, standards writing or coordinating organizations, direct contact with recognized experts in the field, library research and personal experience. The information should be very useful to both individuals and companies that are just becoming involved in the field as well as to those not having kept pace with recent developments. In addition, it is believed that the recommendations provided could result in substantial cost savings for companies if adopted and applied in a rational manner.

Although the scope of the thesis is limited to the impact of product and process standardization/certification on electronic systems manufacturers, many aspects discussed are also applicable to other industries.

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