ASTM International launches Year of SME

ASTM International, one of the world’s leading standards development organisations, has launched the “Year of the SME: Small Business in Action” at its first major meeting of 2016. Throughout the year, ASTM will emphasise how input from small and medium-sized enterprises is crucial to creating high-quality technical standards. ASTM will also highlight advantages SMEs gain by being members, including ASTM’s consensus-driven approach that gives them an equal voice and vote alongside representatives of larger companies and others.

“I’m thrilled that we are celebrating SMEs this year,” said Ralph Paroli, Ph.D, ASTM International’s Chairman for 2016. “Thousands of small businesses around the world work through ASTM to make their voices heard, to help them compete globally, to drive innovation, to create jobs, and to network. ASTM’s open process and low membership cost make it easy for small manufacturers and others to participate on a level-playing field.”

Paroli, Director of Research and Development in Measurement Science and Standards at the National Research Council of Canada, made the announcement at ASTM’s January Committee Week in San Antonio, Texas. Throughout the week, more than 600 technical experts and others are creating and revising standards in a variety of fields: nuclear, environmental, chemicals, textiles, paints and more.

Entrepreneurs and SMEs provide the majority of private sector jobs worldwide while accounting for more than half of global GDP.

Over 12,000 ASTM standards operate globally. Defined and set by us, they improve the lives of millions every day. Combined with its innovative business services, they enhance performance and help everyone have confidence in the things they buy and use – from the toy in a child’s hand to the aircraft overhead.