Workshop helps assess NZ stakeholder views

24 August 2007

Workshop helps assess New Zealand stakeholder views

Standards New Zealand has spent the past two days listening to stakeholder views on the proposed adoption of the European Computer Manufacturers' Association Office Open XML document as an international Standard.

'The workshop allowed a range of stakeholders to present us with their views on the proposed Office Open XML document,' said Grant Thomas, Chief Operating Officer, Standards New Zealand.

'This is just one part of the process that Standards New Zealand and the independent Chair are undertaking to objectively review both the existing international Standard and the proposed draft Open XML document. Ultimately Standards New Zealand's aim is to accurately and fairly reflect New Zealand stakeholder views when casting the vote on behalf of New Zealand,' said Mr Thomas.

The workshop was independently chaired by Ms Alison Holt, the New Zealand Head of Delegation for international committee JTC1 SC7 Software Engineering. Attendees included representatives from a range of software development organisations both multi-national and New Zealand based.

Discussions at the workshop covered a series of technical questions; as well a wider strategic discussion on what would be the best outcome for New Zealand.

'It was a lively and interesting two days, and attendees commented positively on the opportunity the group discussion presented for the New Zealand IT industry,' said Mr Thomas.

The next step is for Standards New Zealand to make a recommendation to the Standards Council on how New Zealand should vote. The Standards Council will review this recommendation and instruct Standards New Zealand on how to cast the vote.

It is expected that a decision will be made and the vote cast on Friday 31 August 2007.

ENDS

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