Conformance testing services in Europe

In the process of creating a single market, Europe has started a strategic plan where standardization plays a central role and, consequently, conformance testing, certification and mutual recognition of results become necessary factors for success. The strategy is progressing significantly in the information technology and telecommunication sector at a rapid pace, in particular for OSI-based products and services. The overall picture is presented, with particular focus on the results achieved so far in the OSI test service development under the umbrella of the Commission of the European Communities (CEC)-sponsored initiative called the conformance testing services (CTS) program. The most significant merits of the CTS experience are presented, and current and future developments are highlighted