As part of the QI-FoKuS initiative we conduct studies on current and fundamental topics in conformity assessment and accreditation. The studies’ basis is formed by our comprehensive surveys of companies and in particular conformity assessment bodies in Germany and internationally. By publishing the results, we contribute to an improved data basis, scientifically sound insights and the identification of trends in the quality infrastructure.
Current study
A current study as part of the QI-FoKuS initiative will investigate the digitalization of conformity assessment bodies in Germany and other countries.
QI-FoKuS Study 2021/2022
Source: BAM
This study is the first to comprehensively examine the state of digital transformation in the field of conformity assessment, conducting a comparative analysis of 15 countries and regions. It is based on data from an online survey of 1447 organizations worldwide. The results show clear country differences in digital maturity and the focus of conformity assessment bodies. A current comparative report (April 2024) and the respective country reports are now available for download.
The digital transformation of the economy (Industry 4.0) and more digitalized, networked and complex products and applications are bringing digitalization also into the focus of conformity assessment bodies (CABs). Innovations and new technologies and processes depend on corresponding conformity assessment services. This poses new challenges for testing and calibration laboratories, inspection and certification bodies, and other CABs. At the same time, however, digitalization also offers new opportunities. A new QI-FoKuS study will examine "Digitalization in Conformity Assessment" using an online survey of accredited CABs of all types in 2021. The following topics will be addressed:
- What is the digital maturity level of the CABs?
- What is driving digitalization and what effects are being achieved?
- What hurdles are the CABs encountering?
- What technological trends are emerging?
In addition to CABs in Germany, accredited CABs in other European countries and overseas are also surveyed in cooperation with the national accreditation bodies.
The scientific conceptual design and evaluation are carried out by the Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung (BAM), together with Prof. Knut Blind from the Technische Universität Berlin and Prof. Pavel Castka from the University of Canterbury (New Zealand).
Digitalization in Conformity Assessment – Study reports on results from various countries
Webinar: Empowering Quality Infrastructure through Digital Transformation
Learn more about the QI-FoKuS nitiative
QI-FoKuS – Creating a data pool, identifying trends
QI-FoKuS Flyer 2021 (PDF)
Source: xia yuan/Moment/Getty Images
The Covid-19 pandemic is also affecting conformity assessment. In 2020, as part of the
QI-FoKuS Corona Monitor, conformity assessment bodies in Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, and New Zealand were surveyed about the economic impact of the pandemic and its effects on their ability to work.
more information
Source: BAM
In early 2020, an online survey asked companies of various industries and sizes in Germany about the use and impact of their certified ISO/IEC 27001 information security management system.
more information
Partners and sponsors
QI-FoKuS is a collaboration between BAM and TU Berlin. The initiative is supported by BMWi.
Source: TU Berlin and BMWi logos