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NIST Mechanisms for Disseminating Measurements
T E Gills1, S Dittman1, J R Rumble1
1National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-0001, USA.
Summary
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Office of Measurement Services (OMS) continues the legacy of the National Bureau of Standards (NBS) through four key programs: Calibration, Standard Reference Materials, Standard Reference Data, and Weights and Measures.
Area of Science:
- Metrology and Standards
- National Measurement Infrastructure
Background:
- The National Bureau of Standards (NBS), established early last century, held national responsibilities for measurement assistance and services.
- These responsibilities are now managed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Office of Measurement Services (OMS).
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the evolution and current structure of NIST's measurement services.
- To provide a historical perspective on pivotal measurement developments.
- To project future directions for NIST measurement services.
Main Methods:
- Historical review of measurement services and organizational changes.
- Analysis of the four constituent programs of the Office of Measurement Services.
- Examination of NIST's role in disseminating measurement products, data, and services.
Main Results:
- The Office of Measurement Services (OMS) comprises four programs: Calibration Program (CP), Standard Reference Materials Program (SRMP), Standard Reference Data Program (SRDP), and Weights and Measures Program (W&MP).
- OMS facilitates access to NIST's measurement and standards activities.
- The study presents a historical overview, current status, and future outlook for each program.
Conclusions:
- NIST's Office of Measurement Services is the modern continuation of NBS's foundational measurement support.
- The four OMS programs are crucial for disseminating NIST's expertise and resources.
- The future of NIST measurement services is positioned for continued innovation and support in the new millennium.
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