Comparing and Contrasting Economic Evaluations of NMIs and their Industrial Impact

摘要

As is commonly stated, access to accurate measurements via national (and international) measurement infrastructures is essential to modern business. A widespread and demonstrable basis of accurate measurements facilitates fair trade, enables demonstration of compliance with specifications and regulations, and supports technological innovation. The public good nature of national measurement systems and the subsequent rationale for public support is well established. However, there is an ever-increasing requirement to demonstrate the economic and social value of the availability and use of accurate measurements obtained via national measurement systems. Over the past few years several national economies have attempted to calculate this value using a variety of economic techniques. These techniques will be reviewed and contrasted. This paper will provide the basis for a discussion session on the measurement of the impact and value of national measurement infrastructures.