The "link" to Industry：
ISO TC8 will be the internationally recognized body of experts in the development of standards for the maritime community.
・ Internationalism. Standards will be used across national boundaries. Equipment and materials will come from many sources as long as they comply with recognized standards. Suppliers will compete in many more areas when standards use system international (SI) metric units as their primary measurements and are in harmony with international regulations.
・ Standards will drive Products/Standardization. Due to the rapid changes in technology, product life cycles are becoming shorter. The customer wants to protect his investment; therefore, a greater emphasis will be placed on products meeting accepted standards. Standards must be developed concurrently with new technology. Standards must be focused on interchangeability and performance, rather than detail design, to allow improved technology to be used. This can also be accomplished by creating interface standards.
・ Shortened Design Cycles. To convert technology advancements into products in a timely manner, the design cycle will be shortened. A body of current standards is required so that new technology can be combined with existing technology in a building block approach.
・ Electronic Document Distribution and Maintenance. With the increasing availability and capability of on-line computer systems, standards will be located, reviewed, coordinated, and updated electronically.
