Standardization and Standards: Fully Digital, Connected, and Globally Compatible

Is a standard nothing more than a pile of paper? Yes, it is. Already today.

Behind every standard lies the knowledge of more than ten thousand experts - in Germany. And hundreds of thousands worldwide.

We support business, government, and society in achieving their future goals by digitally combining our collective knowledge and making it digitally available to all users. Simple, fast and value driven.

Join us in shaping the digital standards of tomorrow. For an innovative and sustainable future. Because your expert knowledge is the best content.

Digitalization in the Context of Standardization

VDE

The world is going digital—and standardization along with it. As the central organization for electrotechnical standardization in Germany, the DKE is actively shaping this transformation. For us, digitalization means more than just automating existing processes or adopting new technologies. It is a fundamental transformation process that redefines how we work, our products, and our role in the standardization ecosystem.

That is why we have made digital transformation a strategic priority. We are developing new methods, tools, and formats—from SMART Standards to digital collaboration platforms and Content-as-a-Service solutions. At the same time, we are building expertise, connecting stakeholders, and fostering a cultural shift that enables cross-functional, agile work.

What is the goal of the Digitalization division?

We view digitalization not as a technical project, but as a strategic transformation. The DKE is becoming an organization with end-to-end digital processes. Our goal is to help set international standards—as a blueprint for the IEC, as an active catalyst for CENELEC, and as a bridge-builder between industry, politics, and standards application.

SMART Standards, digital collaboration platforms, and automated standard application processes are at the heart of our work. Our vision is to make standards available in a way that allows them to be read, understood, and applied by both people and machines—regardless of format, tool, or system.

Where does digitalization begin, and how do we benefit from it?

The DKE plays an active role in the development of digital standards. We consistently drive the digitalization of standardization both internally and externally—technologically, organizationally, and culturally. In doing so, we see ourselves as a service provider and catalyst for the entire community.

Our mission encompasses three key tasks: First, the digitalization of the entire standardization process—from creation to application. Second, the development and provision of SMART Standards that are directly applicable in Industry 4.0. Third, the strengthening of digital competence within the DKE and among all stakeholders in standardization.

Relevant news

All news on the digitialization of standardization at a glance

Sashkin - adobe.stock.com

DKE Digital Strategy

Digital transformation is a key driver of the future not only in politics, science, and business, but also in standardization: the digital standard is an essential component of its future strategy.

With the Initiative for Digital Standards (IDiS)—the network group for digital transformation within the DKE—we are making a significant contribution to paving the way for the digital standard.

DKE Digital Strategy