The federal telecommunication standards program

The Federal Telecommunication Standards Program was initiated in 1972 to provide for the development and coordination of Federal telecommunication standards for National Communications System interoperability and computer-communication interface. This paper presents background information relating to the development of the program, its relationship with other standards organizations, and the potential impact of standards developed and being developed upon Government and industry. A summary of past and on-going standardization activities has also been included, together with commentary on future activities.