A good measure of success
Working from the idea that what cannot be measured is generally not properly understood, the 'Implementing metrology in the European Research Area -Plus' (IMERA-PLUS) initiative based efforts on facilitating reliable measurement for successful policymaking and regulating everything from air safety to packaging. Metrology thus supports industry, drives innovation, and provides better tools for other scientific disciplines. IMERA-PLUS is part of the wider European Metrology Research Programme (EMRP), which has brought together National Metrology Institutes (NMIs) of 19 participating countries. With a streamlined co-funding system and coordinated action, project partners have had the necessary critical mass to tackle important joint research projects (JRPs). Around 21 JRPs and wider IMERA-PLUS activities have generated some 380 contributions to conferences and workshops. A further 400 or more papers and articles have been published in journals, conference proceedings and the press. Guidelines and good practice briefings in metrology have been developed for use by industry, end users and stakeholders. IMERA-PLUS work has also been channelled through industry or sector-based 'user committees' as well as through standardisation efforts. Output from the project has influenced the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Institute for Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), among others. The IMERA-PLUS action was run by the European Association of National Metrology Institutes (EURAMET), the Regional Metrology Organisation for Europe, in particular regarding relations among the NMIs. This valuable collaboration has underpinned fundamental research, supported policymaking, and paved the way for more effective and reliable measurements and processes within industry.
