Introduction

BSI was set up in 1901. It was the first national standards body in the world. Today it is part of the BSI Group. This has bases throughout the world. It is the UK's National Standards Body. Many businesses choose to conform to standards as they protect consumers. They also lead to new developments and bring other benefits. Businesses that apply standards are recognised as ones that are strong on quality. BSI works with a wide range of groups to decide on standards.

Research

Most new products are the result of research. Standards are used in the research process. Standards increase the effectiveness of many products. They help to lower costs. They reduce the time it takes to turn a concept into a product. Each standard has a number and description. This shows if it is a British (BS), European (EN) or International (ISO) Standard. BSI works with companies and identifies best practice. It uses this to write standards that provide a framework for research. Standards can help with new technology development. For instance, BSI supports nanotechnology research. This involves making new products by controlling atoms.

Development

BSI sets out guidelines for businesses to follow. These show best practice. By following best practice, businesses can improve. They become more efficient and are able to make more profit. Standards provide a common framework for products that need to work together. For instance, all CDs are the same size. This means they fit into CD players around the world. A team of experts discuss what factors are needed to make a product safe, reliable and of high quality. This panel creates a list of rules and tests that a product or process needs to meet. Even services, for instance, a process for businesses to handle complaints from their customers, can have standards.

Testing

Testing is vital when bringing new products to market. Products must be safe and fit for purpose. This means they must do what customers expect of them. A product with a Kitemark is BSI tested. A BSI licence is needed to use the Kitemark. Some standards are compulsory. For instance, fire extinguishers must meet health and safety laws. Without this, they cannot by law be sold. The CE marking shows that a product meets what is necessary in European law. Some products, like toys, must carry this mark.

Production and launch

BSI helps companies from research to product launch and marketing. During pre-production trained assessors check that processes and production comply. Only then are products considered ‘fit for sale’. On launch, a BSI certificate gives customers confidence. Working to standards helps businesses because:

• it helps attract customers and encourages them to buy
• it demonstrates market leadership
• it creates competitive advantage 
• it maintains best practice.

Conclusion

New goods, services and processes are always coming onto the market. Innovative product developers research and roll out new ideas. They need a framework in which to work. BSI can support every stage of the process. It creates standards, provides advice and supports research.