Standards in Process: Foundations and Profiles of ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) and OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) Studies

摘要

Telecommunication and computer technologies are merging, stimulating such global communication projects as the Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) and the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) Reference Model. The systems of standards needed to ensure worldwide success of these projects are being developed. These efforts, of unprecedented complexity, are demanding an increase in knowledgeable, dedicated standards workers. This report offers background material on the meaning, significance, and changing nature of standards and their development, both in the United States and internationally. The importance of international standardization to U.S. industry is stressed. Building on this foundation, the ISDN and OSI standardization efforts are presented as the consequences of converging technological advances worldwide. The increased cooperation among standards organizations such as the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Telegraph and Telephone Consultative Committee (CCITT) is documented. The report concludes with a summary of responsibilities and desired characteristics of standards writers.