National Institute of Standards and Technologies

Definition

The National Institute of Standards and Technologies is a federal agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, responsible for developing technology, metrics, and standards to drive innovation and economic competitiveness in various industries, including manufacturing. NIST works to enhance productivity and improve quality in operations through the dissemination of consistent standards and guidelines.

Related terms

Quality Management: The act of overseeing all activities and tasks needed to maintain a desired level of excellence, often guided by standards set forth by institutions like NIST.

Innovation Management: The process of managing an organization's innovation procedure, from initial idea generation to final product launch, which may be influenced by technological standards established by NIST.

Operational Efficiency: Refers to the ability to deliver products or services in a cost-effective manner without compromising quality, often relying on benchmarks and practices recommended by standard-setting bodies such as NIST