Standardization Processes
DoD 4120.24-M established the principal activities and processes to be undertaken by LSAs. They are summarized in the following:
New Document Development. When the need for a new (Government) standardization document is identified, a project is initiated and a document sponsor is assigned. The sponsor is responsible for drafting and conducting an internal review of the document. Once the document has been drafted and reviewed within the sponsor's organization, it is forwarded to the LSA [M&S CO]. The LSA reviews the draft for style and forwards it to the required reviewing activities. Following the review period, any comments are forwarded to the sponsor for adjudication. Following comment adjudication, an approval draft is prepared and forwarded to the LSA. At that time a final review is conducted for style and the document is forwarded to the Standardization Board for approval. Following approval, the LSA submits the approved document for publication and inclusion in the Department of Defense Index of Specifications and Standards (DODISS) and Acquisition Streamlining and Standardization Information System (ASSIST) databases. Figure 1 illustrates the foregoing process.
Figure 1. Process for New Document Development
Document Adoption. When a non-Government document (e.g.: IEEE, ISO, SISO) is approved for DoD use, it may be adopted by the LSA. The process is similar to the development process. First a project is initiated and a document sponsor is assigned. Second the proposed non-Government standard is circulated with the proposed adoption notice to the required reviewing activities. Review comments may include recommendations for adoption or rejection; or they may include reservations and exceptions. Third, the review comments are adjudicated and the adoption notice is revised as necessary. Fourth, the adoption notice is forwarded to the Standardization Board for approval. Fifth, following approval, the notice of adoption is published as before. Figure 2 shows the process for adoption of a non-Governmental standard.
Figure 2. Adoption Process
Affirmation or Reinstatement. Affirmation is the statement by the LSA that a standardization document, that was due for review, has completed the review process and remains current and will remain in force until the next review date. Reinstatement moves a standardization document from the "inactive for new design" or "cancelled" status back to the "Active" status. The process for this procedure is the same as for adoption.
Review. Many documents are forwarded by other LSAs for review by M&S CO as the M&S LSA. Such documents are forwarded to the appropriate cognizant engineer for review and comment. Upon receipt of comments, the LSA consolidates and forwards them to the originating LSA for adjudication.
Non-Government Standards Participation. Government participation in Non-Government Standards Bodies is governed by OMB Circular A-119 (Revised) and Defense Standardization Program Publication SD-9. Participation in non-Government standardization efforts is encouraged. Within its area of responsibility, the LSA is responsible for assigning /Government representatives to participate in non-Government standards bodies. That designation permits the government to support the standards development process with funding, travel and technical support. Once assigned, representatives must represent the Government interests in the standards being developed; however, on technical matters, they vote as individuals with their vote having the same weight as other committee members.
Standardization Comment Submissions. Submission of comments regarding standards under the cognizance of the M&S CO should be forwarded to
Please include the following:
- Document Identification (Number and Title)
- Your comments including suggested changes and rationale
- Your name, activity, email and phone number
You will receive a response indicating the disposition of your comment. If necessary, we may contact you for clarification or additional information.