Evolution of International Statistical Standards via Life Cycle of Products and Services

This paper describes international statistical standards in the context of the product life cycle. To set the stage, the historical evolution of standardization is traced from the Xia Dynasty of China to the present. The transition from local standards geared for manufacturing to national and then international standards is highlighted with acceptance sampling standards. International statistical standards now cover a broad range of topics beyond acceptance sampling, so a scheme is needed to organize them into a coherent structure. The product Life cycle provides just such a framework. The product Life cycle (which is subsumed to include service, as well) is partitioned into four main "megaphases", namely: conception, development, delivery and maturity and death. Each megaphase is linked to relevant statistical methods in general and statistical standards in particular. A gap analysis identifies potential future directions of statistical standards developments and the attendant role that statisticians can continue to play in this arena.