standardization

---

 A standard is a widely adopted specification, technical recommendation, or similar document.
(Source: International Bureau of Weights and Measures) Here are two examples of standards: Good Manufacturing Practices, which ensure that products are consistently produced and controlled according to quality standards appropriate to their intended use and as required by the product specification, and ISO 22000, which addresses food safety management. 

Standards provide a reliable basis for people to share the same expectations about a product or service. Standards result in the following benefits:

• Products which are compatible and configured to work perfectly, without any action by the user. Standards allow bankcards and credit cards to fit into all automatic teller machines and be used worldwide; screws fit into screw nuts worldwide. Having standards save consumers time and money and minimize waste, errors, and costs for companies.
• Products and services that are safe, reliable, and of good quality. When consumers buy food products, like longganisa (sausages) and tocino (cured meat), that meet ISO 22000 standards, they are assured that they are buying safe food. When they buy toys that meet safety standards, they can be sure that the toys are free from toxic substances that can harm their children.
• The protection of the environment and human health. International standards on air, water, and soil quality and on emissions of gases and radiation contribute to efforts to preserve the environment and the health of citizens.
• The facilitation of free and fair global trade. Standards that are adopted worldwide ensure that requirements for imports and exports are the same the world over. They ease the movement of goods, services, and technologies from country to country.

 The difference lies in compliance. While conformity with standards is voluntary, technical regulations are by nature mandatory.