The Digital Agenda identifies improved standard-setting procedures and increased interoperability as the keys to success.

Interoperability and standards

We need effective interoperability between IT products and services to build a truly digital society.
The internet is the best example of the power of technical interoperability. Its open architecture gave interoperable devices and applications to billions around the world. But to reap the full benefits of ICT deployment interoperability between devices, applications, data repositories, services and networks must be further enhanced.

Improving ICT standard-setting
 
Europe's standard-setting framework must catch up with fast-moving technology markets because standards are vital for interoperability. The Commission will continue the review of European standardisation policy by following up on its White Paper "Modernising ICT standardisation in the EU" and the related public consultation. Reflecting the rise and growing importance of ICT standards developed by certain global fora and consortia, one important aim is to allow their use in legislation and public procurement.

Moreover, guidance on transparent ex-ante disclosure rules for essential intellectual property rights and licensing terms and conditions in the context of standard-setting, to be provided in particular in the forthcoming reform of EU standardisation policy as well as in updated antitrust rules on horizontal co-operation agreements, could contribute to lower royalty demands for the use of standards and thus to lower market entry costs.

Promoting better use of standards

Public authorities should make best use of the full range of relevant standards when procuring hardware, software and IT services, for example by selecting standards which can be implemented by all interested suppliers, allowing for more competition and reduced risk of lock-in.

Enhancing interoperability through coordination

A key action to promote interoperability between public administrations will be the Commission's adoption of an ambitious European Interoperability Strategy and the European Interoperability Framework to be drawn up under the ISA programme (Interoperability Solutions for European Public Administrations).

Since not all pervasive technologies are based on standards the benefits of interoperability risk being lost in such areas. The Commission will examine the feasibility of measures that could lead significant market players to license interoperability information while at the same time promoting innovation and competition.