NIST, ANSI REAFFIRM PARTNERSHIP FOR U.S. STANDARDS SUCCESS.

In one of the first acts in the implementation of the recently established National Standards Strategy (NSS), NIST and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) signed a revised version of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)(first signed in 1995) between the two organizations on Dec. 27, 2000. The NSS was developed under ANSI's leadership by representatives of public and private-sector organizations in order to strengthen the U.S. voice in international standards arenas.

The revised MOU cements the NIST/ANSI partnership for strengthening the national voluntary consensus standards system of the United States and enhancing U.S. competitiveness in the global marketplace. In the agreement, NIST reconfirms its recognition of ANSI as (1) the U.S. member body of the International Organization for Standardization (known as ISO); (2) sponsor of the U.S. National Committee to the International Electrotechnical Commission; and (3) the U.S. representative to and member body of various private-sector regional standards organizations. NIST also pledges to facilitate ANSI's efforts to foster cooperation among U.S. private and public sector organizations engaged in standards-related activities.

In turn, ANSI recognizes and supports NIST's responsibility for coordinating federal activities in voluntary standards and conformity assessment. Under the National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act, NIST is responsible for coordinating federal standards and conformity assessment policies and activities, and for coordinating with the private sector and with state and local governments with respect to standards-related matters. NIST chairs the Interagency Committee on Standards Policy, works closely with other federal agencies and recognizes accreditation programs for conformity assessment activities.

To access an online copy of the NIST/ANSI MOU, go to the World Wide Web at http://ts.nist.gov/tsfhtdocs/210/nttaa/ansimou.htm.