The use of conformity assessment as a means by which buyers and sellers
can communicate requirements will increase as information technology systems
and applications grow more complex. Models for conformance testing and
certification programs are necessary to understand principles and issues that
are essential for successful conformity assessment programs. This paper
presents one such model by identifying key roles, activities and products
involved in any conformance testing and certification program. This model has
been successfully used by NIST in helping private-sector organizations
establish their certification programs.
