Proaction and participation: Evolving modes of standard-setting for communications and information technologies

The present study examines the relationship between the proactive mode of standards-setting and participatory models and rationales. The initial premise is that standards-setting is as much socially as technically determined. The analysis is thus predicated upon the outline of a bi-level theory of standards practice which aims to link broad motivational rationales and definitions with subject specific ones. Using documentary surveys, historical examples, and an extensive series of personal interviews with officials active in the international standards-setting arena, perceptions as to the nature of proaction and participation are detailed.;There are several primary conclusions. Firstly, "proactive standardization" is a real term in the discourse. Secondly, the term refers less to the relative maturity of the technology than to the context of its application. Thirdly, proaction is a strategic device available to both users and suppliers of technical products and services, and it has the ultimate aim of actively directing conditions for the deployment of technologies. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).