The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is an agency of the US Department of Commerce which works to advance measurement science, standards, and technology in support of US innovation and industrial competitiveness. Established in 1901, NIST has developed over 2,000 measurement standards used by industry and government throughout the country.
NIST’s main focus is on developing physical measurements such as those related to weight, length, temperature, force and light. In addition to setting these quantitative standards for industry, NIST also works to improve quality assurance through their testing laboratories. These labs are used for research related to computer systems security, cryptography and other advanced technologies.
In addition to its research efforts, NIST provides technical assistance for businesses that need help understanding or complying with existing regulatory requirements. This can include energy efficiency assessments or laboratory safety inspections designed to ensure compliance with occupational health and safety regulations.
Finally, NIST sponsors several educational programs aimed at encouraging innovation in science and engineering fields as well as helping organizations improve their operational performance through improvements in product development processes. These programs provide valuable resources for businesses looking to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to advances in areas involving technology-related research.
