NAM says voluntary standards system drives U.S. innovation.

Press Release Summary:



Nearly 100 leaders from government and wide range of industry and trade associations gathered to address importance of U.S. voluntary standards system, the crucial role it plays in America's ability to be globally competitive, and how it creates good jobs in technology sectors. Specifically, voluntary standards system is spurring development of Smart Grid, healthcare IT, cyber security, and emerging technologies, and contributing to America's leadership in global economy.



Original Press Release:



NAM Says Voluntary Standards System Drives U.S. Innovation



Industry and Government Leaders Emphasize Importance of Standards to Smart Grid, Health Care IT, Cyber Security and Emerging Technologies

WASHINGTON, D.C., July 24, 2009 - Today, nearly 100 leaders from government and a wide range of industry and trade associations gathered to address the importance of the U.S. voluntary standards system, the crucial role it plays in America's ability to be globally competitive, and how it creates good jobs in technology sectors. The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) and the U.S. Department of Commerce's International Trade Administration hosted the event.

The U.S. voluntary standards system is designed to help businesses and other stake holders develop and promote product measurement, standards and technology in order to enhance productivity, facilitate trade and compete successfully in a global marketplace. Specifically, the voluntary standards system is spurring the development of Smart Grid, healthcare IT, cyber security and emerging technologies and contributes to America's leadership in the global economy.

"Standards can become either trade-facilitating measures that benefit companies, workers and consumers or, alternatively, they can become serious new trade barriers as countries use them to favor their own products over U.S. competitors," said Shaun Donnelly, senior director, international business policy at the NAM.

The event featured panel discussions with government, industry, academia and standards organizations and marked the beginning of an NAM initiative to inform Congress, the Administration and the public of the vital role the voluntary standards system plays in promoting U.S. innovation and global competitiveness.

"Manufacturers are working with President Obama's Administration and members of Congress to ensure that all the relevant government players understand the fundamental importance of maximizing our standards system to support U.S. global competitiveness," Donnelly said.

The National Association of Manufacturers is the nation's largest industrial trade association, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Visit www.nam.org for more information.

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