Bridging the Standardization Gap: An Introduction

Bridging the Standardization Gap: An Introduction is a PowerPoint presentation prepared for ITU-T Study Group Chairmen and Vice Chairmen Training. It is designed to introduce participants to ITU’s Bridging the Standardization Gap (BSG) initiative and to train them in the structure and processes of ITU-T.

It explains ITU’s role as a UN agency for information and communication technologies, with broad membership from governments, industry, and academia. The focus is on developing global telecommunications standards that are open and inclusive.

The presentation outlines efforts to reduce gaps between developed and developing countries in standardisation, based on a resolution adopted in 2018. It highlights capacity-building, regional cooperation, and increased participation from developing countries. It also explains how ITU-T Study Groups work, describing their structure, procedures, and the process for submitting and approving contributions.

Guidance is provided on drafting clear and effective contributions. The presentation also describes Focus Groups, which work on emerging issues with flexible participation, and notes the increased use of virtual meetings, which have improved accessibility for developing countries.

Additional training materials are offered through video resources to help participants better understand the ITU-T processes and their role in international standardisation.