How suitable are standards for SMEs?

Two cartoon characters with a checklist © Trueffelpix – stock.adobe.com

A new online test is available with which standards committees can check step by step whether their text is well suited to use by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The test is based on CEN-CENELEC Guide 17, Guidance for writing standards taking into account micro, small and medium-sized enterprises' (SMEs') needs. The test surveys for example whether changes with respect to previous versions of the standard are adequately explained and justified, whether the scope is clearly defined, whether the content of the standard is limited to what is necessary and is clearly formulated, and whether it could cause disproportionate costs or market distortions.

The test can be performed at any time during the standard development process. It was produced by Small Business Standards, an organization representing the interests of SMEs in standardization at European level, together with its members and other experts.

Online test