Title: A comprehensive review of the national quality infrastructure framework

Authors: Mesfin Demissie; Birhanu Beshah; Frank Ebinger

Addresses: Addis Ababa Institutes of Technology (AAIT), Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia ' Addis Ababa Institutes of Technology (AAIT), Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia ' Nuremberg Campus of Technology, Nuernberg, Germany

Abstract: Scholars define national quality infrastructure (NQI) differently. However, the basic components and scopes are similar. NQI is a less explored topic with few studies conducted, therefore, this paper is instated to provide insight. With this in mind, the paper reviewed basic concepts, components, and the interrelationship among the NQI components. Moreover, NQI development models, benefits, and challenges are also included in the review. Different literature from different sources dealing with NQI was collected and reviewed. Findings showed that NQI represents the peculiar and joint application of all its components including technical regulation and intellectual property rights. However, the presence, functionality, and international and regional integration of each NQI component determines the efficiency and effectiveness of the system. This ultimately promotes trade, innovation, and growth. Finally, besides the effort made by different NQI affiliated international and regional organisations to promote the concept, this review also strengthens the efforts to make NQI more visible.

Keywords: national quality infrastructure; NQI; standardisation; metrology; accreditation and conformity assessment.

DOI: 10.1504/IJPQM.2022.126933

International Journal of Productivity and Quality Management, 2022 Vol.37 No.3, pp.361 - 383

Received: 16 Sep 2020
Accepted: 14 Feb 2021

Published online: 14 Nov 2022 *

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