Developing Standards for Africa
Our rigorous development process ensures high-quality, consensus-based standards that serve African needs while aligning with international best practices.
Development Process
How We Develop Standards
Our comprehensive six-stage process ensures thorough development and review of all standards.
0. Preliminary Stage
Initial assessment of the need for a new standard and its potential scope.
1. Proposal Stage
Formal proposal submission and initial evaluation of market relevance and regional needs.
2. Preparatory Stage
Development of the initial working draft by technical experts and stakeholders.
3. Committee Stage
Technical committee review and refinement of the working draft through consensus-building.
4. Enquiry Stage
Public consultation period where stakeholders can review and comment on the draft standard.
5. Ballot Stage
Formal voting process by member countries on the draft standard.
6. Approval Stage
Final review and approval of the standard by ARSO technical committees.
7. Published Standard
Final publication and distribution of the approved standard to the public.
Our Principles
Key Development Principles
Our standards development process is guided by four key principles that ensure quality and relevance.
- Consensus-Based
Standards are developed through agreement among stakeholders, ensuring broad acceptance.
- Transparency
Open and transparent process with opportunities for stakeholder input at multiple stages.
- Expert-Driven
Development led by technical experts from across Africa and international partners.
- Regional Focus
Standards tailored to African needs while aligning with international best practices.
Ready to get involved?
Join our technical committees or participate in public consultations to contribute to African standardization.