Assessment of National Priorities for Metrology and Conformity Assessment Interim Report CARDS 2004 Croatia Project No

Transcription

1 Assessment of National Priorities for Metrology and Conformity Assessment Interim Report CARDS 2004 Croatia Project No Nikola Poposki, Ani Todorova, Nineta Majcen, Philip Taylor EUR EN

2 The mission of the IRMM is to promote a common and reliable European measurement system in support of EU policies. European Commission Joint Research Centre Institute for Reference Materials and Measurements Contact information Address: Retieseweg 111, 2440 Geel, Belgium Philip.TAYLOR@ec.europa.eu Tel.: +32 (0) Fax: +32 (0) Legal Notice Neither the European Commission nor any person acting on behalf of the Commission is responsible for the use which might be made of this publication. Europe Direct is a service to help you find answers to your questions about the European Union Freephone number (*): (*) Certain mobile telephone operators do not allow access to numbers or these calls may be billed. A great deal of additional information on the European Union is available on the Internet. It can be accessed through the Europa server JRC EUR EN ISBN ISSN DOI /56032 Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities European Communities, 2007 Reproduction is authorised provided the source is acknowledged Printed in Belgium

3 Assessment of National Priorities for Metrology and Conformity Assessment Interim Report CARDS 2004 Croatia Project No Nikola Poposki, Ani Todorova, Nineta Majcen, Philip Taylor

4 Table of Contents LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS... 1 PROJECT SYNOPSIS (UP-DATED)... 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTRODUCTION ACHIEVED RESULTS UNDER THE 1 ST REPORTING PERIOD (05/10/ /04/2007) OVERALL WORKPLAN FOR THE ENTIRE PROJECT DETAILED REPORT PER ACTIVITY Component 1: Establishment of a joint IRMM-DZM working group on strategic planning Component 2: Identification of national needs in metrology and conformity assessment Component 3: Strategic planning and impact study Component 4: Investment planning OBSERVATIONS ON THE 1ST REPORTING PERIOD PLANNED ACTIVITIES FOR THE 2 ND REPORTING PERIOD (06/04/ /08/2007) ADJUSTMENT OF ACTIVITIES PROPOSED IN THE INCEPTION REPORT DETAILED WORK PLAN PER ACTIVITY Component 3: Strategic planning and impact study Component 4: Investment planning Component 5: Reporting project results CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Overall conclusions Key Assumptions Enhancing Risks Complementary observations Recommendations addressing identified fields for improvement ANNEXES... 30

5 LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS DZM EC EU HMI IRMM PIU State Office for Metrology European Commission European Union Croatian Metrology Institute Institute for Reference Materials and Measurements Project Implementation Unit 1

6 PROJECT SYNOPSIS (UP-DATED) Project Title: Assessment of national priorities for metrology and conformity assessment Project starting date: 16/05/2006 Project duration: 12 months Contract Number: AA Country: Croatia Wider Objective The overall objective is to further develop the quality infrastructure in the Republic of Croatia, in line with the provisions of the SAA, and to crate an enabling environment for the Croatian industries and manufacturers to improve their trade and industrial relations with the EU and international markets as well as quality of life Specific Objectives The specific objective of the project is to support the upgrading of the technical infrastructure and the creation of recognised measurement laboratories and measurement standards in Croatia and the region. Project Activities Component 1: Establishment of a joint DZM-IRMM working group on strategic planning Establishment and start-up meeting of the joint DZM-IRMM working group Training on strategic planning and organizational development Component 2: Identification of the national needs in metrology and conformity assessment Stakeholders needs survey Analysis of the survey results Economic needs analysis Stakeholders consultation meetings Reporting national needs analysis results Component 3: Strategic planning and impact study Prioritization of the national needs (1) Elaboration of the draft strategic analysis part of the national strategy Impact study Consultations on the impact study results Elaboration of the draft strategic planning part of the national strategy Workshop on the needs analysis, draft strategy and impact study results Component 4: Investment planning Prioritization of the national needs (2) Elaboration of the draft investment strategy Consultations with holders of the national measurement standards Discussion of the draft investment strategy with DZM Elaboration of the technical specifications for CARDS

7 Component 5: Reporting project results Elaboration of the final report Presentation of the final report Planned Outputs Component 1 Establishment of a joint DZM-IRMM working group on strategic planning A working group to carry out strategic planning established Croatian Working Group members trained and ready to participate in strategic planning process Component 2 Economic needs analysis report Identification of the national needs in metrology and conformity assessment Component 3 Strategic planning and impact study National strategy in the field of metrology and conformity assessment elaborated Impact study of the national strategy carried out Strategic planning outputs presented to the stakeholders Component 4 Investment planning Investment strategy to satisfy technical needs in priority areas elaborated Technical specification for equipment to be supplied under the CARDS 2004 elaborated Component 5 Project results reported Reporting project results 3

8 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The CARDS Croatia project targeting the "Assessment of national priorities for metrology and conformity assessment" has as a main objective formulating a strategic document that would define the priorities in the Metrology field on national level. The result of this process, including needs analysis and impact study, would offer an objective assessment of the Croatian technical needs in areas defined as priority ones. Finally, this is meant to offer solid ground for the future decisions on investment policy to be based on. The State Office for Metrology is the beneficiary institution within the defined scope of the activities, while in practice, representative stakeholders from the Metrology community in Croatia are actively involved. Furthermore, this project is closely related to a CARDS 2004 Croatia project on "Development of National Metrology, Standardisation, Conformity Assessment and Accreditation System". The later including a wider scope of Quality Infrastructure topics, would provide technical assistance to Croatian Metrology, targeting essentially the Chemistry sub-field. The management of both projects is conducted in parallel. This report presents the project progress achieved within the first reporting period (from 05/10/2006 to 05/04/2007) and offers planning provisions for the second reporting period (from 6/04/2007 to 15/08/2007). It reviews associated risks and assumptions from the point of view of the observations made during implementation and gives recommendation for further improvements. 4

9 1 INTRODUCTION Contexte: The CARDS programme Croatia project on the "Assessment of National Priorities for metrology and conformity assessment" is providing targeted assistance on elaboration of a National strategy for metrology and related conformity assessment topics. The intervention logic in this framework is centred on the specific objective to support the upgrading of the technical infrastructure and creating recognised measurement laboratories and measurement standards in Croatia and the region. In a number of its elements, this project is interconnected with the related CARDS programme 2004 project entitled "Development of National Metrology, Standardisation, Conformity Assessment and Accreditation System". The latter is conducted in parallel and aims to provide targeted assistance on predefined topics having as overall objective further development of the Quality Infrastructure in Croatia. Content: The First interim report offers an overview of the conducted activities during the initial six months period of the implementation phase (06 th October th April 2007). Furthermore, this document is listing the planned activities for the second reporting period (05 April August 2007). They are derived from the overall scheduling of the project that has been concluded within the Inception report. Finally, the last chapter is meant to provide a synthetic view on the achieved results in the course of the first reporting period, derive conclusions and list the key fields requiring further improvement. 5

10 2 ACHIEVED RESULTS UNDER THE 1 ST REPORTING PERIOD (05/10/ /04/2007) 2.1 OVERALL WORKPLAN FOR THE ENTIRE PROJECT DOMAINS / ACTIVITIES 1 Establishment of a joint IRMM-DZM working group on strategic planning 1.1 Establishment and start-up meeting of the working group 1.2 Training on strategic planning and organizational development 2 Identification of national needs in metrology and conformity assessment 2.1 Stakeholders needs survey 2.2 Analysis of the survey results 2.3 Economic needs analysis 2.4 Stakeholders consultation meetings 2.5 Reporting national needs analysis results 3 Strategic planning and impact study 3.1 Prioritization of the national needs 3.2 Elaboration of the draft national strategy 3.3 Impact study 3.4 Consultations on the impact study results 3.5 Elaboration of the final draft of the national strategy 3.6 Workshop on the needs analysis, draft strategy and impact study results 4 Investment planning 4.1 Technical needs assessment in priority areas 4.2 Elaboration of the draft investment strategy 4.3 Discussion of the draft investment strategy with DZM 4.4 Elaboration of the technical specifications for CARDS Reporting Project results 5.1 Elaboration of the final report 5.2 Presentation of the final report 6

11 Graphical presentation of the overall process Consultation by questionnaires Economic needs analysis Stakeholders consultation meeting Economic needs analysis report Needs Prioritization Drafting the strategy (strategic analysis) Impact Study Strategy adjustment (strategic planning) Strategy presentation Investment strategy 7

12 2.2 DETAILED REPORT PER ACTIVITY The stage of completion of the below listed activities is illustrated on the basis of the following ratings: Status Explanation Symbol Completed In process Postponed Cancelled The activity has been completed as envisaged in the planning The activity is in progress. The planned results are expected to be achieved The activity has been delayed or postponed for the next reporting period. The activity has not been realised and is not expected to be delivered In line with the logical sequencing of the project, the following activities have been planned for this period: DOMAINS / ACTIVITIES Establishment of a joint IRMM-DZM working group on strategic 1 planning 1.1 Establishment and start-up meeting of the working group 1.2 Training on strategic planning and organizational development 2 Identification of national needs in metrology and conformity assessment 2.1 Stakeholders needs survey 2.2 Analysis of the survey results 2.3 Economic needs analysis 2.4 Stakeholders consultation meetings 2.5 Reporting national needs analysis results 3 Strategic planning and impact study 3.1 Prioritization of the national needs 3.2 Elaboration of the draft national strategy 3.3 Impact study 3.4 Consultations on the impact study results 3.5 Elaboration of the final draft of the national strategy 3.6 Workshop on the needs analysis, draft strategy and impact study results 4 Investment planning 4.4 Elaboration of the technical specifications for CARDS

13 2.2.1 Component 1: Establishment of a joint IRMM-DZM working group on strategic planning 1.1 Establishment and start-up meeting of the joint IRMM-DZM working group Activity (WG) Elaboration of the national strategy on metrology and conformity assessment will Background information require input both from governmental, non-governmental and private sector. Some of the stakeholders could be involved in the drafting process. To present project goals To report findings under the inception phase Objective of the activity To plan future work and distribute responsibilities within the members of the WG Methodology Two days start-up meeting combined with activity 1.2 Implementation period Oct 2006 Expected result A WG representing major interested parties to be established A list of the members of the WG Deliverables Presentations A start-up meeting report including plan and responsibilities list Status Results COMPLETED A WG of 16 members consisting of representatives from DZM, heads of designated holders of national measurement standards, representatives from the Ministry of Economy, Croatian Metrology Society, CROLAB, Croatian Society for Quality, Chamber of Commerce and two leading institutes in the field of analytical measurements and two experts from IRMM was set-up. The aim of the WG is: To contribute to the elaboration of the national strategy in metrology and conformity assessment To provide point of view of the major actors and metrology stakeholders. Start-up meeting that took place on 23 rd October 2006 initiated the process of elaboration of a national strategy in the field of metrology. For the first time all major metrology stakeholders were invited for participation. Members of the WG became acknowledged with the project, results from the inception phase and the strategy process. The organization of coming activities was planned with involvement of the relevant stakeholders. Deliverables List of the members of the WG (Annex 7) Agenda for the 1 st meeting of the WG (Annex 7) Presentation entitled "CARDS 2004 CROATIA Quality Infrastructure" (distributed to the members of the WG) Presentation entitled "Findings in the field of metrology and conformity assessment" (distributed to the members of the WG) Presentation entitled "Strategic planning session" (distributed to the members of the WG) Minutes from the first meeting of the WG (Annex 7) 9

14 Activity 1.2 Training on strategic planning and organizational development The members of the WG are challenged to establish a team using in most efficient Background information way their different background and experience. The WG members need some knowledge in the field of strategic planning and organizational development. To provide general knowledge on strategic planning and organizational development Objective of the activity to the WG members as well as to organize a team building session One day workshop on strategic planning and organizational development provided Methodology by invited EU experts Implementation period Oct 2006 Members of the WG trained and ready to contribute to strategy drafting Expected result Confidence among the members of the WGs fostered A list of the experts trained Deliverables Presentations Workshop feedback forms fulfilled Status Results COMPLETED The training was separated into two parts: a session on strategic planning and a session on organizational development. A detailed justification about the need to modify the features of the planned activity is presented in the observations part. Firstly, a session on strategic planning was incorporated in the WG's first session on the 23 rd October Secondly, a metrology oriented strategic planning and organizational development session on decision-making level was delivered by the Danish Fundamental Metrology in February Finally, heads of DZM regional departments will take part in a similar training focused on legal metrology activities during their study trip to Slovakia in May The training of the heads of DZM regional offices that is important for the strategy process has a complementary objective. Deliverables Agenda for the 1 st meeting of the WG (Annex 7) Presentation entitled Strategy Development Process (1) (distributed to the members of the WG) Presentation entitled Strategy Development Process (2) (distributed to the members of the WG) Agenda from the session in Denmark (Annex 8) 10

15 2.2.2 Component 2: Identification of national needs in metrology and conformity assessment Activity 2.1 Stakeholders needs survey The industrial operators, testing and calibration laboratories and quality management system certification bodies represent three major groups that are direct Background information customers or interested in metrology services available at the country. They will be approached to give their information on their needs. To collect information important for the strategic planning in the field of metrology Objective of the activity and conformity assessment from the customers, provide necessary practical advice Questionnaires to be elaborated and distributed by regular mail and upon Methodology request by Answers to questions provided by Implementation period 16 Oct 17 Nov 2006 Questionnaires elaborated, agreed within the WG and distributed Expected result Practical advice on questionnaires provided to the stakeholders 3 types of questionnaires, about 120 in total distributed Deliverables A list of companies/institutions to which the questionnaires will be sent Questions/answers s Status Results COMPLETED Three types of questionnaires were elaborated. The Chamber of Commerce and CROLAB contributed in order to select companies and laboratories to be invited to take part in the survey. Questionnaires were presented to the members of the WG for consultation and later distributed by by DZM. About 100 laboratories, 100 industrial operators, 9 certification bodies and 32 consultancy companies were contacted. Clarifications were provided during the face-to-face interviews (activity 2.4) Deliverables A questionnaire for testing and calibration laboratories (Annex 1 to the Economic Needs Analysis Report) A questionnaire for the industry (Annex 3 to the Economic Needs Analysis Report) A questionnaire for consultancy companies and certification bodies (Annex 5 to the Economic Needs Analysis Report) A list of companies that took part in the survey (Annexes 2, 4 and 6 to the Economic Needs Analysis Report) Filled-in questionnaires (at disposal at DZM and the contractor) Activity 2.2 Analysis of the survey results Background information Enquiries usually achieve % responses. Responses are subject of analyses to be further use for the purposes of the strategic planning Objective of the activity Stakeholders responses to be transformed into data appropriate to be included in the national needs analysis and reported Methodology Collection of questionnaires, analysis of results, identification of possible information gaps, consultations within the WG Implementation period 6-17 Nov 2006 Expected result Questionnaire responses analysed, documented and ready to be used for the purposes of the national needs analysis. Deliverables An interim analytical report 11

16 Status Results COMPLETED The response level of the industry was low while laboratories provided more substantial inputs. The deadlines were extended in order to give an additional opportunity for participation. 23 laboratories responded to the questionnaire. Their services are provided to construction and civil engineering sector, gas utility sector, textile manufacturing, electrotechnical and electronic industry, petrol and oil industry, food and beverages production and processing industry, metal processing sector, environment (water, soil, sediments and air) monitoring. Gaps in ensuring traceability of measurements were identified in the field of vibration and acoustics, flow rate measurements, metrology in chemistry. Only six Croatian companies took part in the survey. They identify existence of training needs and traceability or conformity assessment problems but without being specific. One consultancy and three certification bodies replied. They recommend investments in the field of mass, temperature, AC voltage and current, frequency, electrical and magnetic measurements and establishment of conformity assessment bodies for pressure equipment, household appliances, lifts, computers, rotating machines, structural metallic products, water management system. An interim analytical report was drafted and incorporated in the needs analysis report. Deliverables The analysis is incorporated in the chapter 4, items 1, 2 and 3 of the final needs analysis report Activity 2.3 Economic needs analysis There are economical and financial information and publications available. The Background information information should be review, expressed and presented in metrology and conformity assessment related terms. Objective of the activity Economic needs to be identified and reported Methodology Analysis of Croatian economy needs based on publicly available information, identification of possible information gaps, consultations within the WG Implementation period 30 Oct 24 Nov 2006 Expected result Economic needs analysed, documented and ready to be used for the purposes of the national needs analysis Deliverables An interim analytical report Status Results COMPLETED Information from various public sources was collected and studied. Special attention was given to the Strategic development framework for of the government of the Republic of Croatia. An interim analytical report that focuses on economic performance, structural profile, trade balance, foreign investments and government vision for future developments was drafted and incorporated in the needs analysis report. Deliverables The analysis is incorporated in the chapter 3 of the final needs analysis report. 12

17 Activity 2.4 Stakeholders consultation meetings Expected response level on this type of enquiries is close to %. Reliability of provided information can always be questioned. Background information Under these assumptions, complementary discussions with relevant stakeholders are extremely valuable in picturing the "landscape". To discuss identified information gaps, confirm the reliability of available data and Objective of the activity complement provided inputs Meetings with selected responders to the questionnaires, DZM, Ministry of Economy Methodology and Chamber of Commerce Implementation period 27 Nov 1 Dec 2006 Expected result Information necessary to report the national needs analysis collected Deliverables Meetings notes Status Results COMPLETED Face-to-face interviews with six major industrial producers in Croatia (in the following sectors: food-processing, ship-building, electrical appliances and engineering, pharmaceuticals, oil and gas) were organized with the assistance of the State Office for Metrology. Metrology competence in these companies is evident. Their representatives offered an objective overview of the national system and its components (the State Office for Metrology, national laboratories, other calibration laboratories and metrology service providers) and identified gaps in gas flow rate, electro conductivity, electrical, length and pressure fields on highest national or secondary level. They evaluated positively the actions of the Croatian Metrology Society and CROLAB and expressed the expectations for an improved performance at the level of the key national institution, this being the State Office for Metrology.. An interim analytical report was drafted and incorporated in the needs analysis report. Deliverables The notes and their analysis are incorporated in the chapter 4, item 4 of the final needs analysis report. Activity *Consultation with suppliers of measuring equipment Suppliers of measuring instruments maintain different contacts in the country. In Background information general they represent foreign manufactures of measuring equipment To receive input on the areas of social and economic activities where demands for Objective of the activity measurements are increased Methodology A meeting, organized by the Croatian Metrology Society Implementation period New activity Expected result Information about recent major supplies of measurement equipment Deliverables An interim report Status Results COMPLETED A representative panel of measuring instruments suppliers in Croatia, selected by the Croatian Metrology Society, was invited to contribute to the process by providing inputs during a joint meeting. The market for measuring instruments in Croatia appears to be on a positive trend with higher demands in some industrial sectors that the others. Quality requirements were identified as a driving force for the export oriented companies. Some suppliers who are in fact representatives of foreign producers of measurement equipment rely more on metrology services provided by mother companies or metrology 13

18 infrastructure in these countries than on capabilities of Croatian metrology. Two companies have their own calibration laboratories. An interim analytical report was drafted and incorporated in the needs analysis report. Deliverables * Additional Activity The analysis is incorporated in the chapter 4, item 4 of the final needs analysis report. Activity 2.5 Reporting national needs analysis results Background information Croatian national strategy in the field of metrology and conformity assessment should be based on documented analytical report on national needs Objective of the activity To document and report Croatian national needs analysis in the field of metrology and conformity assessment Methodology Preparation of a report on national needs on the base of the interim analysis reports and consult it within the WG Implementation period 4 Dec 15 Dec 2006 Expected result A report on Croatian national needs analysis in the field of metrology and conformity assessment prepared and distributed within the WG Deliverables A report on Croatian national needs analysis Status Results COMPLETED Interim reports under this phase were used as a base to produce the Economic Needs Analysis Report. The draft was distributed to the members of the WG, presented and discussed at its 2 nd meeting. Deliverables Economic Needs Analysis Report (distributed to the members of the WG) Economic Needs Analysis Presentation (distributed to the members of the WG) 14

19 2.2.3 Component 3: Strategic planning and impact study Activity 3.1 Prioritization of the national needs (1) Background information Several subject fields will be determined as important for Croatian economy and society. A prioritization is needed to plan future activities as well as investments. Objective of the activity Discussion on the report on analysis of the national needs, organization of the metrology infrastructure, vision/mission statements, identification of priority fields Methodology 2-days workshop for DZM-IRMM joint working group Implementation period 8-12 Jan 2007 Expected result Vision/mission statement drafted List of priorities identified Deliverables Presentations Report Status COMPLETED Results Identification of priorities was meant to be done within the workshop in January 2007 aiming to translate the identified needs within the Economic Needs Analysis Report into understandable topics. All WG members shared a view that establishment of the Croatian Metrology Institute is the most urgent. The heads of the national laboratories as well as representatives from research institutes identified improvements needed to the done in their fields of interest. Since no consensus on national priorities was reached, the exercise still remains open and another prioritization session is planned for the WG meeting when strategic planning issues will be discussed. Deliverables Intermediate: Agenda for the 2 nd meeting of the WG (the prioritization exercise) (Annex 9) Presentation entitled "Prioritization of the needs in the field of metrology and conformity assessment" (distributed to the members of the WG) Presentation entitled "Drafting of a strategy in the field of metrology and conformity assessment"(distributed to the members of the WG) Minutes from the 2 nd meeting of the WG (Annex 9) Activity 3.2 Elaboration of the draft national strategy Background information Croatia needs national strategy in the field of metrology and conformity assessment. The document will be prepared on the base of the national needs identified Objective of the activity Elaboration of the draft national strategy Methodology Drafting of the strategy, consultation by among members of the WG Implementation period 15 Jan 2 Feb 2007 Expected result The national strategy in the field of metrology and conformity assessment drafted and consulted within the WG Deliverables Draft national strategy Status Results IN PROCESS Due to the results of the prioritization exercise it was decided to split the strategy elaboration process into two phases: strategic analysis and strategic planning and to organize a meeting of the WG in between. Draft skeleton of the strategy was elaborated and sent to DZM for comments in February. DZM and heads of the national laboratories were invited to provide data about their metrological activities. Extended feed-back periods have been at the origin of encountered delays in the drafting process. 15

20 Strategic analysis part of the strategy initially drafted by DZM experts served to initiate discussions at a workshop for DZM management and the 3 rd meeting of the WG that took place in March. Face-to face discussions were considered as needed instead of interactions due to the fact that the early revision of the Metrology Act increased uncertainties about the future both within DZM and the members of the working group compromising the strategy development process itself. According to the recommendations of the WG the draft text of the first part of the strategy was reviewed by the contractor and discussed in a reduced group in April (see Strategic analysis exercise). Drafting of the second, strategic planning part of the strategy will continue in the same format in May. Deliverables The draft text will be presented as a deliverable from the new activities. Activity *DZM Strategic Workshop Over the initial stages of the strategy producing exercise a major weakness was identified: regional offices of the State Office for Metrology, as well as second layer managers were not active participants in the process. The review of the Metrology Background information Act and DZM top management intention to propose establishment of a Croatian Metrology Institute raised discussions about future of the regional offices. These concerns leaded to the conduct of a series of interactions crowned by a whole day workshop. Ensure wider participation in the strategy formulation of the entire managerial panel. Objective of the activity Generating a SWOT analysis from within the organisation Methodology Workshop Implementation period NEW ACTIVITY SWOT analysis conducted with involvement of DZM top and operational Expected result management Deliverables a SWOT matrix Status COMPLETED Results One day workshop conducted in March with participation of managers from DZM headquarters and regional offices Deliverables Agenda for the workshop (Annex 10) The SWOT matrix (Annex 10) * Additional activity Activity *Strategic session of the WG Face-to-face discussions within the WG were considered as needed due to the review process of the Metrology Act. The draft amendments (deadline - end of March Background information 2007) were meant to make a proposal for establishment of a Croatian Metrology Institute Ensure that the members of the WG are informed about the undergoing review Objective of the activity process of the Metrology Act and provide their input Methodology Workshop Implementation period NEW ACTIVITY Consensus about the results of the strategic analysis Expected result Discussion about alternatives and the most appropriate option to be reflected in the amendments to the Metrology Act Deliverables Minutes from the discussions 16

21 Status Results COMPLETED The WG members were informed about recent developments concerning the strategy and the review process of the Metrology Act. The SWOT matrix elaborated by DZM as well as the alternative strategic options were presented and discussed. Such discussion was valuable for the members of the group outside DZM. The WG made recommendations to review the draft text of the strategy in smaller group and appointed Prof. Zvizdić to take part in this group (see Strategic Analysis Review). Deliverable Agenda for the 3 rd meeting of the WG (Annex 11) Alternative strategic options identified by DZM top management (Annex 11) Minutes from the 3 rd meeting of the WG (Annex 11) * Additional activity Activity *Strategic analysis review The activity was recommended at the 2 nd meeting of the WG in the light of the ongoing review of the Metrology Act and the agreed deadlines for its adoption. The intention was to ensure that results of the strategic analysis are reflected in the choice of the strategic alternative option and the way how it is realized by proposed Background information amendments to the Metrology Act. Finally, it was accepted to allow certain delays while rewarding the quality of the final output. Including a larger number of national stakeholders in the drafting process is extremely positive for the entire process, but requires larger flexibility while steering the inputs. Review and achieving consensus on the available parts of the draft strategy in a Objective of the activity smaller group Methodology On-site visit Implementation period NEW ACTIVITY Expected result Strategic analysis part of the strategy reviewed and agreed Deliverables Final draft text of the strategic analysis part of the strategy Status Results COMPLETED A reduced group consisting of DZM Director, a head of one of the national laboratories appointed by the WG and the contractor reviewed the draft text of the strategic analysis part and the different alternatives part of the strategy in April. The group agreed on the structure and recommended some modifications in the text and a need to refine data on performed calibrations, which has been provided by the holders of national measurement standards. Deliverable Minutes from the meeting (Annex 12) Final draft text of the strategic analysis part of the strategy * Additional activity 17

22 Activity 3.3 Impact study Background information Impact of the strategy proposed needs to be evaluated Objective of the activity Analysis of the draft strategy impact Methodology Impact analysis Implementation period Feb 2007 Expected result Impact of the strategy proposed evaluated and analysis results documented Deliverables Draft national strategy impact study report Status Results IN PROCESS Formulation of alternative strategic options at the 2 nd meeting of the WG made possible initiation of the impact study exercise. DZM and national laboratories were invited to provide input. Individual meetings with head of the laboratories as well as heads of the two laboratories in process of designation were conducted. A second interaction on data provided regarding calibrations performed and laboratories budget is needed to improve their relevance. The feed-back time from beneficiary's side is a crucial factor to conduct the study. Activity 3.4 Consultations on the impact study results Background information Impact study results will contribute to improve where necessary the draft national strategy Objective of the activity To discuss results of the impact study and the draft national strategy with the WG Methodology Workshop for the WG members Implementation period Feb 2007 Expected result Recommendations on improvement of the draft national strategy where necessary Deliverables Presentations Report that includes WG recommendations Status Results POSTPONED The activity is correlated with the results from the impact study. Activity 3.5 Elaboration of the final version of the national strategy Background information A final version of the national strategy will be elaborated as the main project result Objective of the activity Elaboration of the final version of the national strategy Methodology Elaboration of the final version according to the workshop discussions and recommendations Implementation period 26 Feb 9 Mar 2007 Expected result Final version of the national strategy elaborated Deliverables Final version of the national strategy Status Results IN PROCESS Following the logic of the project development the activity was transformed into several interactions: the conducted review of the draft text of the strategic analysis part of the strategy and the coming review of the strategic planning part. The draft text of the strategic analysis part of the strategy is available. The review of the strategic planning part will be conducted by the smaller group prior to presentation of the final document to the WG. 18

23 Activity 3.6 Workshop on the needs analysis, draft strategy and impact study results Background information Metrology and conformity assessment stakeholders would like to be informed on the results of the strategic planning Objective of the activity To present the needs analysis, national strategy and impact study results to the stakeholders Methodology Documents available on DZM webpage Awareness workshop Implementation period Mar 2007 Expected result Stakeholders aware about the strategic planning results Deliverables Presentations Report Status Results POSTPONED The duration of the drafting process, mainly correlated to the feed-back time from beneficiary's side would determine the date of the workshop Component 4: Investment planning Activity 4.4 Elaboration of the technical specifications for CARDS 2004 Background information Technical specifications for equipment in the field of Metrology in Chemistry are necessary for the supply component under the CARDS 2004 Objective of the activity Elaboration of technical specifications for equipment in the field of Metrology in Chemistry Methodology Technical specifications for equipment to be elaborated on the base of findings and expert recommendation under 4.1 Implementation period Oct-Nov 2006 Expected result Technical specifications for equipment in the field of Metrology in Chemistry to be supplied prepared Deliverables Technical specifications for equipment in the field of Metrology in Chemistry Status Results COMPLETED The tendering procedure is currently under way. Considering the threats of timing inconsistencies between the Strategy producing process and imposed deadlines by the Ministry of Finance's procurement procedure, the following approach has been agreed between the beneficiary institution (State Office for Metrology), the National contracting authority (CFCU), the contractor (EC DG JRC-IRMM) and the EC Delegation in Zagreb: Based on the initial findings from the Economic needs analysis report, equipment has been identified in some of the core metrological fields related to the Croatian Economic priorities and linked to the "acquis implementation efforts" on National level. Accordingly, technical specifications for this particular equipment have been drafted. The final decision on the procurement of this equipment will be taken on the ground of the formulated National Strategy document. Deliverables Technical specifications for equipment in the field of Metrology in Chemistry (provided to DZM, the CFCU and the EC Delegation) 19

24 In summary, The first project reporting period consists of 14 planned activities and has been complemented by 5 new activities, all of them conducted over a period of six months. The major changes have been introduced in the component 3, Strategic planning and impact study according to the modified approach of strategy drafting and consultation process. Symbol Type No of activities Completed 1.1, 1.2, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 3.1, 4.4 and five new activities Total No of activities 14 In process 3.2, 3.3, Postponed 3.4, Cancelled

25 2.3 OBSERVATIONS ON THE 1ST REPORTING PERIOD The project Inception Phase has concluded that regardless from the fact that progress in implementation of harmonized legislation and European practices in the metrology field is obvious, further improvement of the national metrology infrastructure is needed and required by major stakeholders. The project planning was organized in five components and scheduled for implementation in a period of 32 weeks (October l May 2007). Facing risks and validating assumptions The intensive planning implied from the project's scheduling, has highlighted as key assumptions: Commitment and personal involvement from DZM top management; Contribution from the PIU. Both have been identified as critical to success within the Inception report. In this sense, manifested top manager's contribution (in establishing contacts with major metrology stakeholders, active participation in the working group's efforts and facilitating participation of the DZM's staff members in the process) has been clearly beneficial to the process. However, heavy daily managerial agenda and parallel running of other projects have occasionally compromised the original scheduling. The Project Implementation Unit underwent staff changes during the project reporting period. In overall, the contribution was within acceptable deadlines and very valuable particularly at the stages of organization of the industrial operators and laboratories survey as well as collection of data from the designated stakeholders of national measurement standards. In few cases, coordination of efforts within the organization and with stakeholders has been challenging. The establishment of a joint Working Group was the initial action within this project. Bringing together all heads of designated laboratories (holders of national measurement standards), the key non-governmental organizations (Croatian Metrology Society and CROLAB) as well as the Chamber of Commerce as a main representative of National Industry's perspectives is quite an achievement. Thus, it demonstrates the State Office's for Metrology wiliness to contribute in initiating the strategy producing process. The contribution from the Croatian Metrology Society and CROLAB has been extremely valuable in providing inputs for drafted documents. Other members contribution, as the one provided by the Chamber of Commerce, has had a key role in specific stages of the strategy development. For the first time, the heads of four designated laboratories, holders of national measurement standards, have been brought together with DZM management in order to elaborate a common position about development of the national metrology system. At this occasion, all participants have agreed that not having conducted such an exercise on regular basis in the past has damaged greatly the cohesion of the whole system. Consequently, it has been concluded that the "working group" should evolve in a National Metrology Council offering solutions on strategic orientations to current and future governmental decision-makers. As a matter of fact, such a "National Metrology Council" is envisaged by the existing Metrology Act, but has never become functional. The Internal Market Unit (operating within the Ministry of Economy, Labour and Entrepreneurship) as well as the Croatian Accreditation Agency would certainly have a role to play in this perspective. The issue about establishment of the Croatian Metrology Institute (HMI) has been raised during the project Inception Phase and initial observations have been built up on the false assumption that: the existing Metrology Act envisages the establishment of this Institution. It became a focal point in the following strategic discussions since the members of the WG and consulted stakeholders expressed high expectations from this perspective. Only at the stage of revising the Metrology Act (in February 2007), the fact that the law in force has no explicit provisions on the HMI's establishment was revealed. Confusion on those provisions within the Working group has become obvious during the last session of the Working Group, in March Expectations on the positive results from HMI's establishment were reconfirmed by all Working Group members, agreeing that the recruitment policy within the new Institute will be the key determinant for success. 21

26 Several risks for the project implementation considered at the very beginning have been associated, as a rule, with a low interest in project results and a lack of sufficient data from the various stakeholders. Such problems have been encountered several times during project implementation. The insufficient response from industrial operators (lower below the expected %) results in identification of needs that are not representative for Croatian industry. The low level of participation of small and medium enterprises that is of main concern stands out against the clearly defined needs of the leading major export oriented companies. The laboratory community s moderate interest in the survey (participation about 23 %) is anticipated in the light of the ongoing process of implementation of quality standards and development of accreditation. The consultancy companies observations about trends of increasing demands in quality and certification complement the overall picture. Another obstacle in the way to respect initially planned and rigid deadlines is due to problems to collect relevant data from DZM and the designated national laboratories providing basis for strategic analysis and the impact study. A serious weakness in the management of the system has been identified: DZM is not in position to provide annual statistics about activities of its laboratories as well as the designated ones that are supported by the state budget and therefore the data are not available to the public. In addition, DZM doesn t ask the designated laboratories to report and if anyway they provide information it is not managed in a way to be reliably stored and easily accessed. It is appreciated that the holders of the national measurement standards readily responded to the contractor s invitation to make available data about their activities even if the precision of the data remains an open issue for the coming period. Further encouragement of DZM is needed in order to provide financial information which is vital for the impact study exercise. Concerns on project's impact and sustainability In the course of the first implementation period, the concern about the national strategy's future after the project's completion has gradually increased. The following observations are at the origin of such perception: initiated proposal for EU funded CARDS project overlapping the objectives with the current one; lack of systematic flow of information from DZM's representatives in the WG to remaining institution's staff-members; initiated proposal for EU funded IPA project with substantial investment component before concluding the prioritization exercise and elaboration of the envisaged investment strategy; the deadline for drafting amendments to the Metrology Act was set-up in March 2007 despite of the fact that the revision was originally planned for later; once the national strategy is available and publicly discussed; aspirations for a possible future transition from a distributed to a centralized system, ignoring the fact that the strength of the current metrology system is within the designated national laboratories. Intervention's rationale Some modifications in the project planning have been introduced in order to maximize the impact and ensure sustainability of the project's results. Firstly, the strategic training has been divided into theoretical and practical parts and directed not only to the members of the WG. Discussions during the theoretical coverage of the strategy topics have identified that the main efforts in this field should be focused on the institutional decision-making level. Hence, strategic planning training should be provided in a "realistic metrological environment", rather than a classical lecture. Consequently, the system and organizational development "training" will be rather practical. For this purpose, Croatian institutional front-liners have and will be in a position to experience first hand strategic session in metrology in comparable EU member states. For, the top management and ministerial decisionmaking level tailor-made strategic planning session has been organised in Denmark. Equivalent exercise is following this month for the second layer management level in the Slovak Republic. Finally, an integrated follow-up exercise can be scheduled once the Croatian Metrology Institute is established (planned for last quarter of 2007). This will have the purpose of steering the efforts in implementing the National Strategy, as well as to set a permanent national strategic planning vehicle for the Metrology field. Secondly, the strategy drafting process has been split into two parts: strategic analysis and strategic planning and new activities comprising face-to-face discussions have replaced consultations by . Drafting of the analysis part has been concluded through four interactions: draft inputs from DZM staff, strategic workshop for DZM's second layer management, discussions within the WG and strategic analysis review exercise within a smaller group (designated by consensus within the WG). 22

27 DZM strategic workshop with participation of DZM middle level management from the regional offices comprises a success story in the process. The participants invited for a common meeting for the first time have succeeded to produce a SWOT matrix of the national metrology system demonstrating knowledge in the field and objective judgement on DZM strengths and weaknesses. The result of the workshop raised optimism that DZM staff could become committed to the strategy and actively participates in its implementation if the project provides opportunities for involvement in the discussion process. The WG has recommended review of the strategy draft in a smaller group that consists of DZM Director, a head of a national laboratory nominated by the WG and the contractor. The exercise has made possible to review carefully to draft text, directly to provide clarifications on the strategy and to elaborate recommendations for follow-up actions. All experts involved in the strategy development process are challenged in getting to the heart of the matter that the strategy is about the national metrology system and should not be an institution (DZM or Croatian Metrology Institute) or a laboratory-focused. Formulation of alternative strategies and making a decision about the most appropriate one comprises the dividing line between the strategic analysis and the strategic planning. Theoretically, the impact study has been supposed to provide justifications for strategic choices made in the strategy. The role of the impact study has been degraded with initiation of the review process of the Metrology Act and DZM top management commitment to make a proposal for establishment of the Croatian Metrology Institute. Moreover, the whole strategy process is compromised since the most important decisions are already taken far before the final draft is available and publicly discussed. It is fair to clarify that decision from a higher governmental level imposed on DZM has put the institution in a difficult position wasting a good chance to strengthen its position as a leader and coordinator of the national system. The new circumstances should be taken into account in the next phase of the project. DZM decision about an intermediate solution for organization of the system (coexistence of the State Office for Metrology and the Croatian Metrology Institute) justified with advantages of the gradual development has been normally accepted by the members of the WG. However, it is complemented by DZM top management long-term view that the institute should become the sole institution representing the system. In addition, this perception is shared within all existing reports on the National Metrology system. The prioritization exercise has produced a poor result that is not satisfactorily from the point of view of the investment strategy component. At least one more interaction during the strategy planning phase will be needed within the joint WG in order to reach a wider national consensus on the priorities. Drafting of the strategic planning phase is meant to be inspired from the approach that has proved its efficiency during the strategic analysis phase. Thirdly, it has been emphasized that the high level of a technical expertise of the national laboratories is in contrast with former managerial and communication practices in the overall system. However, the State Office for Metrology, often subject of critiques, is not the only institution that needs improvement. It is encouraging that DZM Director is making efforts in improving relationship with other institutions and laboratories. Unfortunately, the project could not entirely tackle this issue due to its limited implementation period. The activities aiming at improving the inter-institutional collaboration planned under the Development of national metrology, standardization, conformity assessment and accreditation system project, can provide further support to the actors of the national metrology system. The ambition of this project is to suggest the idea that the strategy development process is an exercise that is periodically initiated according to the national needs. The driving forces for the on-going exercise are the Strategic development framework for of the government of the Republic of Croatia and the EU accession negotiations. The national metrology strategy that is under elaboration will aim to serve national needs up to the first several years of country's membership to the EU. It is expected that the national metrology system will need formulation of new strategic objectives soon after the country economy fully integrates into the EU Internal Market. The contractor has elaborated an illustration that represents the idea of the process continuity (Annex 13). It is meant for the cover pages of the strategic reports envisaged by the project. Finally, the national strategy would have better chances for implementation if it benefits from an official support at governmental level.. Therefore, DZM top management is strongly encouraged to initiate a procedure for approval of the document. 23

28 3 PLANNED ACTIVITIES FOR THE 2 nd REPORTING PERIOD (06/04/ /08/2007) 3.1 ADJUSTMENT OF ACTIVITIES PROPOSED IN THE INCEPTION REPORT The work plan from the Inception Report has to be complemented according to the modified approach for implementation of the Component 3 Strategic planning and impact assessment. Activities 3.2 and 3.5 will be finalized through one activity comprising a review of the second part of the strategy, the draft strategic planning. Activity 3.4 will be supplemented by a prioritization session for the joint WG aiming at identification of middle and long-term priorities. The investment planning component could be updated as well. Considering the high technical expertise available within the designated laboratories, the contractor is confident that the heads of the designated laboratories could draft the investment proposals in identified priority areas as well as consult DZM if needed. Thus, the assessment of technical needs in priority areas is cancelled, the activity 4.1 is reformulated as a continuation of the prioritization exercise discussion and a new activity comprising consultations with the holders of the national measurement standards is introduced. DOMAINS / ACTIVITIES 3 Strategic planning and impact study 3.3 Impact study 3.5 Elaboration of the strategic planning part of the draft strategy 3.4 Consultations on the impact study results and draft strategy 3.6 Workshop on the needs analysis, draft strategy and impact study results 4 Investment planning 4.1 Prioritization of national needs (2) 4.2 Elaboration of the draft investment strategy 4.3 Consultations with the holders of the national measurement standards 4.4 Discussion of the draft investment strategy with DZM 5 Reporting Project results 5.1 Elaboration of the final report 5.2 Presentation of the final report 24

29 3.2 DETAILED WORK PLAN PER ACTIVITY Component 3: Strategic planning and impact study Activity 3.3 Impact study Background information Impact of the strategy proposed needs to be evaluated Objective of the activity Analysis of the draft strategy impact Methodology Impact analysis Implementation period By the end of May 2007 Expected result Impact of the strategy proposed evaluated and analysis results documented Deliverables Draft national strategy impact study report Activity 3.2 and 3.5 Elaboration of the strategic planning part of the draft strategy Background information The final version of the strategic planning of the national strategy will be reviewed by the smaller group Objective of the activity Review of the strategic planning part and construction of the final version of the national strategy Methodology On-site discussions Implementation period By the mid of June 2007 Expected result Final version of the national strategy elaborated Deliverables Minutes from the meeting Final version of the national strategy Activity 3.4 Consultations on the impact study results Background information Impact study results will contribute to improve where necessary the draft national strategy Objective of the activity To discuss results of the impact study and the draft national strategy with the WG Methodology Workshop for the WG members Implementation period By the end of June 2007 Expected result Recommendations on improvement of the draft national strategy where necessary Deliverables Presentations Minutes from the meeting that include WG recommendations Activity 3.6 Workshop on the needs analysis, draft strategy and impact study results Background information Metrology and conformity assessment stakeholders would like to be informed on the results of the strategic planning Objective of the activity To present the needs analysis, national strategy and impact study results to the stakeholders Methodology Documents available on DZM webpage Awareness workshop Implementation period By the mid of July 2007 Expected result Stakeholders aware about the strategic planning results Deliverables Workshop agenda Presentations 25

30 3.2.2 Component 4: Investment planning Activity 4.1 Prioritization of national needs (2) Considering the high technical expertise available at the designated laboratories, the Background information contractor is confident that the heads of the designated laboratories could draft the investment proposals in identified priority areas as well as consult DZM if needed Objective of the activity Achieve a consensus about national priorities Methodology A workshop Implementation period By the end of May 2007 Expected result Identification of priority areas of investments Deliverables Prioritization report Presentations Activity 4.2 Elaboration of the draft investment strategy DZM will need an investment strategy to plan budget and activities in order to satisfy Background information country needs in the fields of higher priority. The designated laboratories, holders of national measurement standards as well as invited experts from the country will contribute directly to the drafting process. Objective of the activity Elaboration of the investment strategy in the priority fields Methodology Elaboration of a strategy based on reports with recommendations on investments as well as reflecting DZM general needs Implementation period By June 2007 Expected result Documented investment strategy Deliverables Draft investment strategy Activity 4.3 Consultations with the holders of the national measurement standards Background information Some further discussions with the experts that will contribute directly for the investment strategy elaboration will be needed Objective of the activity To discuss the draft investment strategy and improve it where necessary Methodology On-site discussions Implementation period By July 2007 Expected result Draft version of the investment strategy improved Deliverables Minutes from the meetings Activity 4.4 Discussion of the draft investment strategy with DZM Background information DZM agreement on draft investment strategy is important for its future implementation Objective of the activity To discuss the draft investment strategy and improve it where necessary Methodology Workshop for the DZM senior staff and the heads of the external national standard laboratories if concerned Implementation period By July 2007 Expected result Final version of the investment strategy elaborated Deliverables Minutes from the meeting Final version of the investment strategy 26

31 3.2.3 Component 5: Reporting project results Activity 5.1 Elaboration of the final report Implementation period Before August 2007 Expected result Final report elaborated Deliverables Final report Activity 5.2 Presentation of the final report Implementation period By mid of August 2007 Expected result Final report presented to DZM and the Steering Committee Deliverables Final report 27

32 4 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 4.1 Overall conclusions Key Assumptions The Government will provide continuous support to the quality infrastructure and will allocate necessary financial and human resources to meet the obligations of the Project Partner as defined in the Terms of Reference. All parties have to be actively involved in the project from the beginning. DZM top management would manifest strong dedication and personal involvement as well as wider DZM staff participation in the strategy drafting process and implementation. National laboratories (holders of national standards) willing to contribute by providing reliable data, to be used in the analytical part of the strategy. The Internal Market Unit, within the Ministry for Economy, Labour and Entrepreneurship actively acts as co-ordinating body and supports the definition of National priorities in the measurement area. The Project Implementation Unit being the main interlocutor between the Project partner, the contractor and the EC Delegation in Zagreb, is sufficiently staffed and trained in Project management issues Enhancing Risks Lack of interest from the various stakeholders, leading to insufficient response or unclear input into the consultation process. Insufficient or not enough relevant data providing basis for impact study Relevant ministries are not actively participating in the project The early proposal for an act on amendments to the Metrology Act is not in line with the final national strategy Complementary observations The efforts are focused on elaboration of such a strategic document for the Croatian national metrology system that is accepted with consensus and supported for implementation by major metrology stakeholders. Changes in organization of the current system represent the focal point of the discussions. An eagerness for establishment of the Croatian metrology institute throws a shade on important issues such as definition of national priorities and concerns about arrangements needed in order to ensure better quality of operation of the new institute. The project implementation approach has been adapted with the purpose of responding to the new circumstances related to the initiated revision of the Metrology Act and increased worries about the future among DZM staff. The national strategy will provide a strategic orientation for fundamental, legal and industrial metrology in Croatia. The conformity assessment part of the strategy logically will be focused on measuring instruments related directives (NAWI, MID, LVD, EMC, ATEX). The activities under CARDS 2004 projects linked to metrology and conformity assessment fields have been coordinated with the CARDS 2003 project during the monthly PIU meetings. The results achieved under the CARDS 2003 provide a main input for the strategy conformity assessment component. The members of the WG should become acquainted with the main achievements of this project. The investment strategy will provide investments planning based on middle-term national priorities. Therefore the prioritization of needs should derive from domestically generated objective evaluation. The fact that currently DZM faces some difficulties while putting into service the equipment delivered by previous EU funded projects is an other concern. It is complemented by an observation about traditional absence of consultations with designated laboratories on technical issues.. DZM should take advantage of the high 28

33 technical expertise available at the national laboratories but consider the fact that some laboratories tend to develop in commercially attractive areas rather than in high level metrology applications. 4.2 Recommendations addressing identified fields for improvement Based on the above listed observations, the following points are considered to be supportive to the project s best logic and quite beneficial to the final output: The fact that the PIU has experienced some significant staff changes with recent appointment of a new head of the unit should attract DZM top level management attention. The unit role in projects preparation and management as well as in maintaining of DZM international relationships is important. Both CARDS 2003 and CARDS 2004 projects tend to address the issues related to the institutional strengthening of DZM and the metrology infrastructure in general. The CARDS 2003 project team should be invited to provide direct input to the members of the WG in order to provide them firsthand information about main results in the field of metrology related conformity assessment issues. The Internal Market Unit established at the Ministry of Economy, Labour and Entrepreneurship is encouraged to undertake more active role in strategic discussions in line with the Ministerial competence in the policy development process on Conformity Assessment. Elaboration of the investment strategy should make possible to couple DZM and the national laboratories efforts. The drafting process of technical specifications for CARDS 2004 supply component is an example for such cooperation. Following a common agreement between the beneficiary institution and the Contractor, as well as subject to an approval by the EC Delegation in Zagreb, a decision about extension of the project implementation period until 15 th of August 2007 is under consideration. The next (and last) Steering Committee meeting would in that case take place in September

34 ANNEXES Annex 1: Updated Logical Framework Annex 2: Updated Overall work-plan for the entire duration of the contract Annex 3: Overall Output Performance Plan Annex 4: Extension of the Project Annex 5: Steering Committee members Annex 6: Minutes from 1 st Steering Committee Meeting Annex 7: Documents from the 1 st meeting of the Joint DZM-IRMM WG Annex 8: Agenda for strategic development training in Denmark Annex 9: Documents from the 2 nd meeting of the Joint DZM-IRMM WG Annex 10: Documents from the DZM strategic workshop Annex 11: Documents from the 3 rd meeting of the Joint DZM-IRMM WG Annex 12: Minutes from the strategic analysis review 30

35 31

36 Annex 1: Updated Logical Framework Project Project starting date: 16/05/2006 Up-dated on: 30/04/2007 title: Assessment of national priorities for metrology and conformity assessment Contract N: (30017) Project end date: 16/08/2007 Sheet no. Intervention logic Objectively verifiable indicators Number of selected laboratories and conformity assessment bodies ready to become fully operational at the national level within 5 years Sources of verification Project reports of the complementary CARDS 2004 project Assumptions and risks The Government will provide continuous support to the quality infrastructure Overall objective: The overall objective is to further develop the Quality Infrastructure in the Republic of Croatia, in line with the provisions of the SAA, and create enabling environment for the Croatian industries and manufacturers to improve their trade and industrial relations with the EU and international markets as well as quality of life Specific objectives: The specific objective is to support the upgrading of the technical infrastructure and the creation of recognized measurement laboratories and measurement standards in Croatia and the region Project Purpose National needs in Metrology an Conformity assessment are analysed National priorities in the measurement area, based on above analysis of the national needs, are identified Number of identified priorities related to metrology sub-fields Number of identified areas in metrology and conformity assessment Number of priority areas at the national level National Strategy for Metrology Project reports Expert reports DZM reports The Government will allocate necessary financial and human resources to meet the obligations of the Project Partner as defined in the Terms of Reference DZM top management would manifest strong dedication and personal involvement as well as wider DZM staff participation in the strategy drafting process and implementation The number of conformity assessment bodies and laboratories needed are clearly defined. Technical Specifications for equipment to be procured are available Number of operational conformity assessment bodies and laboratories nominated at the national level Number of purchased measurement equipment Lack of interest from the various stakeholders, leading to insufficient response or unclear input into the consultation process Activities: Establishment of a joint IRMM-DZM working group on strategic planning Establishment and start-up meeting of the working group Training on strategic planning and organizational development list of working group members; presentations expert presentation on strategy during the WG session Working group established Active involvement of all partners in the project Relevant ministries are not actively participating in the project 32

37 Identification of national needs in metrology and conformity assessment Stakeholders needs survey Analysis of the survey results Economic needs analysis Stakeholders consultation meetings Reporting national needs analysis results Strategic planning and impact study Prioritization of the national needs (1) Elaboration of the strategic analysis part of the draft national strategy Impact study distributed 3 types of stakeholder questionnaires interim analytical report interim analytical report meetings' minutes report on national needs analysis presentations draft strategic analysis component of the national strategy draft national strategy impact study report Report on national needs analysis National Strategy in Metrology The Internal Market Unit, at the Ministry of Economy, Labour and Entrepreneurship actively acts as co-ordinating body and supports the definition of National priorities in the measurement area Insufficient response or cooperation from the stakeholders Insufficient or not enough relevant data providing basis for impact study The early proposal for an act on amendments to the Metrology Act is not in line with the final national strategy Elaboration of the strategic planning part of the draft national strategy Consultations on the impact study results and the draft strategy Workshop on the needs analysis, draft strategy and impact study results Investment planning final version of the national strategy presentations and report including WG recommendations presentations and report Prioritization of the national needs (2) Elaboration of the draft investment strategy Consultations with the holders of the national measurement strategy needs prioritization document draft investment strategy improved draft investment strategy Investment strategy & Technical Specifications for equipment Discussion of the draft investment strategy with DZM final version of the investment strategy Elaboration of the technical specifications for CARDS 2004 Reporting project results technical specifications for equipment in the field of Metrology in Chemistry Elaboration of the final report final report Final report Presentation of the final report final report Preconditions DZM receptive and committed to ongoing CARDS projects 33

38 Annex 2: Updated Overall work-plan for the entire duration of the contract Project Title: Assessment of national priorities for metrology and conformity assessment Contract Duration: 15 months Contract number: Up-dated on: (30017) Country: Croatia Page: 30/04/2007 EC Consultant: DG Joint Research Centre - IRMM Allocation of Expert Completion Date Results Activities Outputs TL 1 Man/Days PD 2 STE 3 STE EU HR Component 1: Establishment of a joint IRMM-DZM working group on strategic planning 1.1 Establishment and start-up meeting of the working group 3 3 Operational End Oct 1.2 Training on strategic planning and WG organizational development End Oct Component 2: Identification of national needs in metrology and conformity assessment 2.1 Stakeholders needs survey End Jan 2.2 Analysis of the survey results Mid Jan 2.3 Economic needs analysis Needs' Mid Jan 2.4 Stakeholders consultation meetings analysis 4 4 Mid Dec 2.5 Reporting national needs analysis results End Jan Component 3: Strategic planning and impact study 3.1 Prioritization of the national needs (1) End Jan 3.2 Elaboration of strategic analysis part Strategy doc. 2 1 of the draft national strategy Mid April 3.3 Impact study End May 3.5 Elaboration of the strategic planning part of the draft national strategy 2 2 End May 3.4 Consultations on the impact study 3 6 results and final draft of the strategy End June 3.6 Workshop on the needs analysis, draft strategy and impact study results Mid July 1 Team Leader = Nikola Poposki 2 Project Director = Philip Taylor 3 Key Expert = Ani Todorova Deadline 34

39 Component 4: Investment planning Prioritization of national needs (2) Elaboration of the draft investment strategy Investment Strategy Technical Spec. 2 2 Consultations with holders of the national measurement standards 5 5 Discussion of the draft investment strategy with DZM Elaboration of the technical specifications for CARDS 2004 End Nov Component 5: Reporting project results 5.1 Elaboration of the final report End July 5.2 Presentation of the final report Final report Mid Aug Project Management End May End June 1st Steering Committee meeting Inception report Beg Oct 2 nd Steering Committee meeting Interim report 2 2 Beg May 3 rd Steering Committee meeting Final report 2 2 Beg Sep End July End July Total Man/Days

40 Annex 3: Overall Output Performance Plan Project Title: Assessment of national priorities for metrology and conformity assessment Contract number: (30017) Country: Reporting period: 6 Months Up-dated on 30/04/2006 EC Consultant: DG Joint Research Centre - IRMM Croatia Outputs Establishment of a joint IRMM-DZM working group on strategic planning (Nov 2006) Analysis of the national needs in metrology and conformity assessment (Jan 2007) Defined national Strategy (June 2007) Investment plan (July 2007) Agreed Objective Verifiable Indicators Workshop's presentations Resulting minutes from the sessions Analytical Report on national needs Strategic document for Metrology Investment strategy Technical specifications available Constrains and Assumptions (C/A) Strongly dedicated WG members as essential condition for success (A) Unavailability of sufficiently reliable document might affect the scope of the analysis (C) Insufficient response from solicitated stakeholders represents a risk (C) Project objectives fulfilled if the strategy is implemented (A) Active involvement of all partners (A) 36

41 Annex 4: Extension of the project 37

42 Annex 5: Members of the Steering Committee SC Members Institution Position Contact details Address Phone Mr Mirko VUKOVIĆ DZM Director Vukovarska (0) Ms Biserka BAJZEK-BREZAK HAA Director Vukovarska (0) Ms Dragutin FUNDA HZN Director Vukovarska (0) Ms Vesna LUČIĆ-REGVAR DZM Head of PIU Vukovarska (0) Mr Miroslav BANIĆ DZM Head of OMP PJ Zagreb Ibrišimovićeva (0) Ms Tajana Mr Davor KESIĆ-ŠAPIĆ ČILIĆ Min. of Economy, Labour and Entrepreneurship State Secretary Vukovarska (0) Central Office for Dev. Strategy And Coordination of EU Funds Deputy State Secretary Ratkajev prolaz 4 davor.cilic@mei.hr +385 (0) Mr Lino FUČIĆ Min. of Env.pro, Phy.pl. and Construction Head of section for building construction R. Austrije 20 lino.fucic@mzopu.hr +385 (0) Dr Sami SAMARDZIC Min. of Health and Social Welfare Head of PIU Ksaver 200 a sani.samardzic@mzss.hr (0) Mr Dubravka VLAŠIĆ - PLEŠE Min. of Foreign Affairs and European Integration Head of department Petretićev trg 2 dubravka.vlasic@mei.hr +385 (0) Ms Božena VRBANIĆ State Inspectorate Deputy Chief Inspector Vukovarska 78 bozena.vrbanic@inspektorat.hr +385 (0) Ms Friederike WUENSCHMANN EC Delegation in Zagreb Sector manager Trg žrtava fašizma 6 friederike.wuenschmann@ec.europa.eu +385 (0) Dr Philip TAYLOR EC DG JRC - IRMM Project Director Retieseweg 111, 2440 Geel, Belgium philip.taylor@ec.europa.eu +32 (0) Mr Nikola POPOSKI EC DG JRC - IRMM Team Leader Retieseweg 111, 2440 Geel, Belgium nikola.poposki@ec.europa.eu +385 (0) (0)

43 Annex 6: Minutes from the 1 st Steering Committee meeting EUROPEAN COMMISSION DIRECTORATE-GENERAL JOINT RESEARCH CENTRE Institute for Reference Materials and Measurements Zagreb, 5 th October 2006 CARDS programme 2004 CROATIA QUALITY INFRASTRUCTURE MINUTES From the First Steering Committee meeting The Steering Committee meeting was shared for both CARDS 2004 projects, entitled: 1/ Assessment of national priorities for metrology and conformity assessment 2/ Development of National Metrology, Standardisation, Conformity Assessment and Accreditation System Proposed Agenda Activity Approx. time Welcome word by the Chairperson 5 min Steering Committee members' introduction 5 min Projects' presentation (Inception phase, plan, implementation): 15 min 1/ Assessment of national priorities for metrology and conformity assessment 2/ Development of National Metrology, Standardisation, Conformity Assessment and Accreditation System Questions 10 min Discuss 1st Reporting period points (Oct '06 Mar '07) 15 min Discussion 15 min Agree on the date for the next Steering Committee meeting 5 min 39

44 Participants SC Members Institution Position Note Ms Tajana KESIĆ-ŠAPIĆ Min. of Economy, Labour and Entrepreneurship State Secretary Ms Biserka BAJZEK-BREZAK HAA Temporary director Not present delegated representative Ms Snježana ZIMA HZN Temporary director Ms Liljana BAŠURA DZM Head of PIU Mr Miroslav BANIĆ DZM Head of OMP, PJ Zagreb Mr Mirko VUKOVIĆ DZM Director General Mr Davor Mr Lino ČILIĆ FUČIĆ Dr Sami SAMARDZIC Mr Dubravka VLAŠIĆ - PLEŠE Central Office for Development Strategy and Coordination of EU Funds Min. of Env.pro, Phy.pl. and Construction Min. of Health and Social Welfare Min. of Foreign Affairs and European Integration Deputy State Secretary Head of section for building construction Head of PIU Head of department Ms Božena VRBANIĆ State Inspectorate Deputy Chief Inspector Not present delegated representative Not present delegated representative Not present delegated representative Not present delegated representative Not present delegated representative Ms Friederike WUENSCHMANN EC Delegation in Zagreb Sector manager Dr Philip TAYLOR EC DG JRC - IRMM Project Director Mr Nikola POPOSKI EC DG JRC - IRMM Team Leader Also attending: Ms Vlasta GACESA-MORIĆ - Croatian Standards Institute Ms Maja GUSIĆ - Croatian Accreditation Agency Ms Ladislava ČELAR - Ministry of Economy, Department for IM Coordination Dr Nineta MAJCEN - European Commission DG JRC IRMM Ms Ani TODOROVA - European Commission DG JRC IRMM Ms Nataša WEISS - State Inspectorate Ms Mirna ŠTAJDUHAR - Central Office for Development Strategy and Coordination of EU Funds 40

45 Notes The Chairperson, State Secretary from the Ministry of Economy, Labour and Entrepreneurship, Ms Kesić- Šapić welcomed all participants at the first Steering Committee meeting for the CARDS 2004 projects: 1. Assessment of national priorities for metrology and conformity assessment (12 months duration), and 2. Development of National Metrology, Standardisation, Conformity Assessment and Accreditation System (36 months duration). Introductory "tour de table" of all attendants followed the welcoming statement. The members of the Steering Committee Ms Božena VRBANIĆ, Dr Sami SAMARDZIĆ, Mr Lino FUČIĆ, Mr Davor ČILIĆ were not present, while they have designated respective representatives. The Chairperson, Ms Kesić-Šapić stressed that the presence of all Steering Committee members would be requested and expected for the following SC sessions. Projects' team leader, Mr Poposki presented the proposed activities that have been concluded within both projects with the beneficiary institutions during the inception phase. Projects' director, Dr Taylor has illustrated the importance of the Quality Infrastructure element as a component of the Croatian accession to the EU, putting an accent on the crucial role of direct involvement of all relevant actors and decision-makers in the implementation phase in order to transform the plan into reality. The State Secretary, Ms Kesić-Šapić has expressed Croatia's Government and her own, full support to the projects and has encouraged all the participants to offer their best contribution in this process. Project's manager, Ms Wünschmann underlined the fact that having the European Commission as a consultant offers a unique opportunity for the beneficiaries, having in mind for instance the revision process of some core legislation. The Law on technical requirements for products and on conformity assessment is typically one of these points where Commission's inputs while drafting the amendments would be extremely beneficial. As a bottom line, this approach comforts both the Croatian Government and the European Commission as partners in the process of assimilating the "acquis communautaire". Ms Vlašić Pleše clarified from the behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integration, that a first draft of the revised Law on technical requirements for products and on conformity assessment has been circulated thought the inter-ministerial consultation channels, but that the proposed text would be subject to further comments and improvements. Proposed assistance in this context would certainly be beneficial to the quality of the final output, before being submitted for adoption to the Parliament. From the behalf of the Croatian Accreditation Agency as one of the beneficiaries, Ms Gusić expressed management's satisfaction from the cooperation that has been established during the inception phase and the proposed plan as an outcome of this process. Presenting the view of one of the beneficiary institutions, the State Office for Metrology, Ms Bašura pointed out that the formulated proposals reflect DZM's expectations and that these draft reports offer good basis for further implementation. The director of the Croatian Standards Institute, Ms Zima (having done considerable efforts in order to attend two parallel meetings) concluded that the suggested planning, as well as the positive interaction with the consultant, is perceived by HZN as a solid ground on the way of achieving the listed objectives. Commenting on a positive note the submitted drafts of the inception reports, Ms Wünschmann has listed several remarks concerning the textual part, including: o Contract's starting date (16 th instead of 15 th of May 2006); o Project Implementation Unit (instead of Project Management Unit on p.10 and further); 41

46 o o o Listing indicative m/days against suggested activities (this already been included in the latest version of the annexes; but not in the initial one); Copying the paragraph relevant for the Ministry of Economy's role to both draft Inception Reports; Adjusting the recommendations part in both draft reports along the same lines. In the concluding word, the Chairperson, Ms Kesić-Šapić affirmed that she would be extremely supportive to the successful conduct of both projects and encouraged all participants to invest the required efforts in order to achieve the commonly agreed objectives. The next Steering Committee meeting on both projects has been scheduled to take place after six months, at the very end of March At that time, the results from both projects' advances for the first implementation period would be presented through interim reports. Furthermore, the final report on the 12 months lasting strategy producing project, entitled "Assessment of national priorities for metrology and conformity assessment", would be subject of a separate Steering Committee session, taking place three weeks before the end of this contract, meaning at the end of April Steering Committee's envisaged sessions are presented in the following table: Year 2006 Year 2007 May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 16th Signature of contracts 1st - 2nd Kick-off meeting Inception phase 5th First Steering Committee Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Year 2008 Second Steering Committee Final SC Strategy in Metrology End of 12 months contract Third Steering Committee Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Year 2009 Fourth Steering Committee Jan Feb Mar Apr May Final Steering Committee End of 36 months contract Fifth Steering Committee Prepared by: Authorised by: Mr Nikola Poposki (project leader) Ms Tajana Kesić-Šapić (Steering Committee's chairperson) Distributed to Steering Committee's members: Mr Mirko VUKOVIĆ, Ms Snježana ZIMA, Ms Biserka BAJZEK-BREZAK, Mr Miroslav BANIĆ, Ms Liljana BAŠURA, Ms Dubravka VLAŠIĆ PLEŠE, Mr Davor ČILIĆ, Mr Lino FUČIĆ, Ms Božena VRBANIĆ, Dr Sami SAMARDZIĆ, Dr Philip TAYLOR, Ms Friederike WUENSCHMANN. 42

47 Annex 7: Documents from the 1 st meeting of the Joint DZM-IRMM WG JOINT DZM-IRMM WORKING GROUP Members No Name Organization Address Tel / fax / 1 Mirko Vuković DZM Državni zavod za mjeriteljstvo Ul. grada Vukovara 78, Zagreb, Hrvatska Tel: (0) Fax: (0) mirko.vukovic@dzm hr 2 Miroslav Banić DZM Odsjek mjeriteljskih poslova Ibrišimovićeva bb, Zagreb,Hrvatska 3 Ljiljana Bašura DZM Državni zavod za mjeriteljstvo Ul. grada Vukovara 78, Zagreb, Hrvatska Tel: +385 (0) Fax: +385 (0) miroslav.banic@dzm.hr Tel: +385 (0) Fax: +385 (0) basuralj@dzm.hr 4 Ladislava Čelar Ministry of Economy, Internal Market Unit 5 Vedran Mudronja National standard laboratory, University of Zagreb, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, Laboratory for Length 6 Davor Zvizdic National standard laboratory, University of Zagreb, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, Laboratory for process measurement 7 Mladen Franz National standard laboratory, University of Zagreb, Laboratory for force Ministarstvo gospodarstva, rada I poduzetništva Ul. grada Vukovara 78, Zagreb,Hrvatska Fakultet strojarstva i brodogradnje Ivana Lučića 5, Zagreb, Hrvatska Fakultet strojarstva i brodogradnje Ivana Lučića 5, Zagreb, Hrvatska Fakultet strojarstva i brodogradnje Ivana Lučića 5, Zagreb, Hrvatska Tel: +385 (0) Fax: +385 (0) ladislava.celar@mingorp.hr Tel: +385 (0) Fax: +385 (0) vedran.mudronja@fsb.hr Tel: +385 (0) Fax: +385 (0) Davor.Zvizdic@fsb.hr Tel: +385 (0) Fax: +385 (0) Mladen.Franz@fsb.hr 8 Ruđer Friganović Chamber of Commerce Hrvatska gospodarska komora Roosveltov trg 2, Zagreb, Hrvatska Tel: +385 (0) Fax: +385 (0) rfriganovic@hgk.hr 43

48 8a 4 Patric Stupin Chamber of Commerce Hrvatska gospodarska komora Roosveltov trg 2, Zagreb, Hrvatska 9 Bozidar Ljubić Croatian Society for Quality Hrvatsko društvo za kvalitetu Berislavićeva Zagreb, Hrvatska 10 Vjera Krstelj CROLAB Fakultet strojarstva i brodogradnje Ivana Lučića 5, Zagreb, Hrvatska 11 Mladen Jakovcić Croatian Metrology Society Pliva Prilaz Baruna Filipovića 25, Tehničke usluge Zagreb, Hrvatska 12 Snejana MARINCIC Zagreb Public Health Institute Zavod za javno zdravstvo grada Zagreba, Mirogojska cesta 16, Zagreb, Zagreb 13 Dubravko Risović Rudjer Boskovic Institute Institut Ruđer Bošković, Laboratorij za molekulsku fiziku Bijenička cesta 54, Zagreb, Hrvatska 14 Nikola Poposki EC-JRC-IRMM Retieseweg 111, B-2440 Geel, Belgium 15 Ani Todorova EC-JRC-IRMM Retieseweg 111, B-2440 Geel, Belgium 16 5 Josip BUTORAC National Standard Laboratory, University of Zagreb, Faculty for Electrical Engineering, Laboratory for Electrical Quantities Tel: +385 (0) Fax: +385 (0) pstupin@hgk.hr Tel: Fax: hdk@inet.hr Tel: +385 (0) , +385 (0) Fax: +385 (0) vjera.krstelj@fsb.hr Tel: +385 (0) Fax: +385 (0) mladen.jakovcic@pliva.hr Tel: +385 (0) Fax: +385 (0) snjezana.marincic@publichealthzagreb.hr Tel: +385 (0) Fax: +385 (0) drisovic@rudjer.irb.hr drisovic@irb.hr Tel Fax: nikola.poposki@ec.europa.eu Tel Fax: ani.todorova@ec.europa.eu Tel: Fax: josip.butorac@fer.hr 4 Replaces Mr Ruđer Friganović 5 Joined the WG at its second meeting 44

49 CARDS Program CROATIA 2004 "ASSESSMENT OF NATIONAL PRIORITIES FOR METROLOGY AND CONFORMITY ASSESSMENT" JOINT DZM-IRMM WORKING GROUP START-UP MEETING 23 OCTOBER 2006, ZAGREB, CROATIA DZM, Ulica grada Vukovara 78 Agenda SESSION TIME ACTIVITY ATTENDANTS morning (9:00 10:00) Welcome words by DZM Director, Mr. M. Vuković Project presentation by Mr. N. Poposki, Project Leader Introducing members of the joint DZM-IRMM WG Joint DZM-IRMM WG members Introductory session morning (10:30 11:30) COFFEE BREAK Reporting findings under the inception phase by Mrs. A. Todorova, key expert DZM priorities in strategy development by Mr. Vuković Strategy development process (part I) by Mrs. A. Todorova, key expert Strategy development process (part II) by Mr. N. Poposki, Project Leader Joint DZM-IRMM WG members Strategic planning session afternoon (12:30 14:00) LUNCH Distribution of WG members responsibilities under the strategy development process Detailed planning of the strategy development process Discussion on the survey on stakeholders needs Joint DZM-IRMM WG members 45

50 CARDS 2004 CROATIA: Assessment of national priorities for metrology and conformity assessment JOINT DZM-IRMM WORKING GROUP MINUTES From the start-up meeting Zagreb, 23 October 2006 Participants: Mr Mirko Vuković, DZM Mr Miroslav Banić, DZM Ms Ljiljana Bašura, DZM Ms Ladislava Čelar, Ministry of Economy, Internal Market Unit Dr Vedran Mudronja, National standard laboratories, University of Zagreb, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, Laboratory for Length Dr Davor Zvizdić, National standard laboratories, University of Zagreb, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, Laboratory for process measurement Dr Mladen Franz, National standard laboratories, University of Zagreb, Laboratory for force Mr Ruđer Friganović, Chamber of Commerce Mr Miroslav Džapo, CROLAB Ms Višnja Gašljević, Croatian Metrology Society Dr Snježana Marinčić, Zagreb Public Health Institute Dr Dubravko Risović, Ruđer Bosković Institute Mr Nikola Poposki, EC-JRC-IRMM Mr Ani Todorova, EC-JRC-IRMM 1/ Welcome words - DZM Director, Mr Vuković INTRODUCTORY SESSION 2/ Project presentation - Mr. Poposki, Project Leader (presentation 1) 3/ Introducing members of the joint DZM-IRMM WG 4/ Reporting findings under the inception phase - Mrs. Todorova, key expert (presentation 2) - Comments provided by Dr. Davor Zvizdic, Dr. Vedran Mudronja and Mr. Mirko Vuković. 46

51 - Mr Vuković has noticed that Dr Josip Butorac from the Faculty of Electrical Engineering was not invited, while his contribution can be highly valuable to the process. It was agreed that he would be informed and invited to participate in the Working group's activities. 5/ DZM priorities in strategy development 1 st STRATEGIC PLANNING SESSION - Mr. Vuković (oral presentation) - Priorities identified: o Legislation harmonization o Strengthening the legal control of measuring instruments o Assuring traceability of measurements o To propose a new Law on metrology o To establish Croatian metrology institute (HMI) o To elaborate and implement an investment strategy - Dr. Zvizdić - From a conceptual perspective, the strategy should reflect the area specific needs, and therefore be structured accordingly in three chapters: - Scientific metrology; - Legal metrology; - Industrial metrology. - Furthermore, it should take in consideration the distinction between: - Existing laboratories - having area specific needs that are quite straightforward; - Laboratories that are going to be established within the distributed system where the decisions would have to be made by the State Office for Metrology. - The strategy development process would be even more beneficial while adopting a forward-looking approach in the sense of identifying good opportunities that can be supported through future IPA funding. - Dr. Franz - Appropriate support has to be suggested for the complete range of fields that are to be covered within the distributed system. Thus, it is quite important to specify that not all the national standard holders' laboratories are in identical position. - Establishment of HMI is to be considered as a top priority. - Dr. Risović - Metrology to be compatible with EU requirements - National capacity to carry out legislation related measurements to be established - The weakest field: environmental measurements - Other important fields: waste management, implementation of the water framework directive - confirms importance of needs identification - As a bottom line, the development of capabilities in metrology should reflect the identified needs that would be linked to "acquis" implementation. 6/ Strategy development process - Mr. N. Poposki, Project Leader (presentation 3) 47

52 - Mrs. A. Todorova, key expert (presentation 4) 7/ Needs identification process - Mr Friganović as a representative of the Chamber of Commerce would contribute in the industry's needs identification through providing data on the National economy's structure. This would serve as basis for defining a representative sample of companies to be consulted through a questionnaire. Dr Risović as a representative of CROLAB will contribute in providing a list of calibration and testing laboratories. DZM will invite Croatian Society for Quality to provide a list of consultancy companies and certification bodies. - It was concluded that after amending, the questionnaires should be distributed on the second week in November. The responses should be expected following a two to three weeks period (the deadline to be specified in the accompanying letters!). - A response rate of 15-20% is realistically to be expected. - Additional meetings with stakeholders bringing clarifications are to be scheduled during the first half of December The next Strategy producing WG session would take place during the second week of January (9 th Jan 2007 being suggested as a target date). Prepared by: Mrs Ani Todorova, Mr Nikola Poposki Authorised by: Joint DZM-IRMM WG on its second meeting on 22 January 2007 Distributed to WG's members: Mr Mirko VUKOVIĆ, Mr Miroslav BANIĆ, Mrs Ljilina BAŠURA, Prof Vedran MUDRONJA, Prof Davor ZVIZDIĆ, Prof Mladen FRANZ, Mr Ruder FRIGANOVIĆ, Mr Mladen JAKOVCIĆ, Mrs Snjezana MARINCIĆ, Dr Dubravko RISOVIĆ, Mrs Ladislava ČELAR, Mrs Ani TODOROVA, Mr Nikola POPOSKI 48

53 Annex 8: Agenda for strategic development training in Denmark Visit of Croatian delegation to Denmark 2007 February Participants: Ms Tajana Kesic-Sapic, State Secretary, Ministry of Economy, Labour and Entrepreneurship Mr Mirko Vukovic, Director General, State Office for Metrology Dr Dragan Kovacevic, State Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management Mr Nikola Poposki, European Commission DG JRC IRMM Hosts: Dr Kim Carneiro, Director, DFM Mr Preben Howarth, Head of consultancy, DFM Dr Anders Kühle, Head of administration, DFM Programme outline DAY 1 - Tuesday 20th - Theme: Strategic planning of metrology Arrival at DFM, light lunch Danish metrological infrastructure. Croatian plans for metrological infrastructure Strategic actions plans as planning tool Croatian needs related to strategic action plans End of day 1 DAY 2 - Wednesday 21st - Theme: Metrological infrastructure 9.30 Visit to a distributed Danish reference laboratory Visit to a distributed Danish primary laboratory Lunch Visit to selected Danish primary laboratories at DFM Presentation of the situation in Croatia related to metrological infra structure Discussion of Croatian needs for metrological laboratories and developing plans End of day 2 DAY 3 - Thursday 22nd - Theme: Authorities & financing metrology 9.15 Obligations of metrology to the public in Denmark, the Danish model for governmental and private financing of metrology, models for financing metrology in Croatia, at DFM Meeting with the Danish Agency for Science, Technology and Innovation under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, in Copenhagen Lunch End of programme 49

54 Annex 9: Documents from the 2 nd meeting of the Joint DZM-IRMM WG CARDS 2004 Programme CROATIA "ASSESSMENT OF NATIONAL PRIORITIES FOR METROLOGY AND CONFORMITY ASSESSMENT" JOINT DZM-IRMM WORKING GROUP MEETING PRIORITIZATION WORKSHOP 22 January 2007, Zagreb, CROATIA State Office of metrology (DZM), ulica grada Vukovara 78 Agenda SESSION TIME ACTIVITY ATTENDANTS Welcome words by DZM Director, Mr. M. Vuković Introductory session 15:00 15:20 Information about the project progress, Mr. N. Poposki, Project Leader Adoption of the minutes from the start-up session on 23 October 2006 Joint DZM-IRMM WG members 15:20 15:45 Objectives of the prioritization exercise, Mrs. A. Todorova Economic needs analysis report presentation, Mr. N. Poposki Joint DZM-IRMM WG members Strategic session (Prioritization exercise) 16:15 17:30 COFFEE BREAK Moderator: A. Todorova Discussion on the economic needs identified Identification of priorities for metrology and conformity assessment Joint DZM-IRMM WG members Concluding session 17:30 18:00 Coming project activities: time table, responsibilities Joint DZM-IRMM WG members 50

55 CARDS PROGRAMME CROATIA 2004: Assessment of national priorities for metrology and conformity assessment JOINT DZM-IRMM WORKING GROUP MINUTES From the second strategic meeting: the prioritization workshop Zagreb, 22 January 2007 Participants: Mr Mirko Vuković, DZM Mr Miroslav Banić, DZM Ms Ljiljana Bašura, DZM Dr Vedran Mudronja, National standard laboratories, University of Zagreb, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, Laboratory for Length Dr Davor Zvizdić, National standard laboratories, University of Zagreb, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, Laboratory for process measurement Dr Mladen Franz, National standard laboratories, University of Zagreb, Laboratory for force Mr Patrik Stupin, Chamber of Commerce Mr Miroslav Džapo, CROLAB Dr Snježana Marinčić, Zagreb Public Health Institute Dr Dubravko Risović, Ruđer Bosković Institute Prof Josip Butorac, National Standard laboratories, University of Zagreb, Laboratory for electrical measurements Mr Nikola Poposki, EC-JRC-IRMM Mr Ani Todorova, EC-JRC-IRMM 51

56 INTRODUCTORY SESSION 1/ Welcome words - DZM Director, Mr Vuković 2/ Information about the project progress - Mr. Poposki, Project Leader (oral presentation) 3/ Adoption of the minutes from the start-up session on 23 October the minutes from the start-up meeting has been adopted 2 nd STRATEGIC PLANNING SESSION: Prioritization exercise 4/ Objectives of the prioritization exercise - Mrs. Todorova, key expert (presentation 1) 5/ Economic needs analysis report presentation - Mr. Poposki, Project Leader (presentation 2) 6/ Discussion on the economic needs identified - Mrs. Todorova, moderator - Dr. Mudronja - agree with the finding that the calibration period might be long for the industry - identified needs: o o More equipment ('devices') More personnel ('operators') - plans to separate calibrations provided by his laboratory into two: the so-called national level calibrations (calibrations of measurement standards) and secondary level calibrations (direct calibrations for industry). - Dr. Zvizdić - needs in the regulated and non-regulated area to be distinguished, role of the government in the non-regulated area if such exist to be identified - needs in the regulated area: o Definition of the measurement range that each national laboratory should cover, proposals to be provided by the laboratories o High expertise in selected fields is needed in order to make possible Croatian participation in metrology research projects - unsatisfied that calibration is considered as conformity assessment activity in ISO/IEC Dr. Risović 52

57 - more time is needed to study the needs analysis report, to agree a deadline to provide comments 7/ Identification of priorities for metrology and conformity assessment - Mrs. Todorova, moderator - Dr. Risović - Priority should be given to measurement fields that are not covered by the national metrology system yet: o e.g. Metrology in Chemistry o Establishing of a national capacity in the field of radioactivity is in process. o There is no capacity for photometry and radiometry measurements (confirmed by some other participants) o There is a potential to develop capacity in the field of flow measurements (confirmed by some other participants) - Mrs. Todorova, moderator - asking members of the working group to comment why both laboratories and industry are raising the issue about establishment of the Croatian Metrology Institute (HMI) - Dr. Mudronja - the issue is not about DZM or HMI as with or without HMI it could be the same - the issue is about: o Coordination of the national calibration laboratories o Quality management system of DZM o Need to know who is responsible for what - Dr. Franz - National metrology system is lacking of coordination. - training to be provided for DZM management staff - Dr. Risović - HMI is needed to focus on fundamentals and science in metrology, DZM to be competent for legal issues - there should be a national metrology advisory board - Dr. Butoraz - the jobs that have to be done by DZM represent mixture of different tasks - HMI to be an institution representing the metrology infrastructure in the country - the Law on metrology states that a National Metrology Council should be established as an advisory body. DZM to start preparations to establish the council - Mr. Vuković - there are no doubts that HMI has to be established. The European Commission was informed about and they are expecting the result. A new metrology law to enable establishment of HMI should be drafted till the end of March. - see no benefits to establish the National Metrology Council now as the legislation will be completely revised - Mr. Banić - the decision to establish HMI was made, now the question is how to organize it (confirmed by Mr. Vuković) 53

58 - Dr. Risović - HMI should be a distributed institute - Dr. Franz - a HMI or a management council of the national calibration laboratories could be established. - the metrology council has a different function advisory one. - Mrs. Todorova, moderator - asking members of the working group to give input for the prioritization matrix - discussion on the strategy timeframe - proposal by most of the members to give HMI establishment the highest priority - discussion on measures needed at the secondary level (the calibration laboratories), no proposal, no common position - no proposal about setting up a priorities among industrial sectors - Dr. Zvizdić - HMI is the priority - to focus on: o o o o o o Proficiency testing Serving the labs Intercomparisons Education Promotion Publication - to improve use of funds available. - Mrs. Todorova, key expert (presentation 3) CONCLUDING SESSION - in total two months to draft the strategy and carry out an impact study - written comments on the needs analysis report and proposal about the strategy to be provided till 2 February input needed in order to draft the strategy, support needed to organize stakeholders consultation on impact analysis - possible meeting of the Working group in March, after the stakeholders consultations, possible date 8 or 9 March last meeting of the Working group on the occasion of the workshop to present the strategy development process outcomes. Possible workshop dates in the period 2-4 April

59 Prepared by: Mrs Ani Todorova, Mr Nikola Poposki Authorised by: Joint DZM-IRMM WG on its third meeting on 16 March 2007 Distributed to WG's members: Mr Mirko VUKOVIĆ, Mr Miroslav BANIĆ, Mrs Ljilina BAŠURA, Prof Vedran MUDRONJA, Prof Davor ZVIZDIĆ, Prof Mladen FRANZ, Mr Patrik STUPIN, Mrs Snjezana MARINCIĆ, Dr Dubravko RISOVIĆ, Prof Josip BUTORAC, Mrs Ladislava ČELAR, Mr Miro DZAPO, Mr Bozidar LJUBIĆ, Mrs Ani TODOROVA, Mr Nikola POPOSKI 55

60 Annex 10: Documents from DZM Workshop Agenda for the workshop 56

61 Swot matrix for the strategy for Metrology Strengths good traditions in metrology and technology solid capacity and existing infrastructure and networks solid human resources within the system specialized and complete territorial coverage in the field of legal metrology Advanced stage of harmonization of legislation Highly competent and relatively well equipped designated national standard-holders laboratories impartiality of DZM services secured by its status as a governmental body solid reputation of metrological NGOs Opportunities Clear vision of governmental goals and industrial needs Increased demand in quality and entrepreneurial spirit Possibilities for external assistance and funding Existing connections with European NMIs Availability of external knowhow Membership in European metrology organizations Potential for playing a major regional role Weaknesses Absence of common vision on the development of the national metrology system Organizational and performance weaknesses in the existing system Weak administrative capacity of DZM implying a negative external perception Low level of public awareness about metrology Absence of international recognition of calibration certificates Lack of R&D in metrology Gaps in calibration and conformity assessment services Lack of /or obsolete equipment Lack of space for new laboratories and offices in Zagreb and Osijek Insufficient second layer calibration laboratories Relatively low salaries in the public sector Threats Insufficient funding to implement the strategy Limited support from the stakeholders Difficulties to recruit young and skilful staff Decrease in incomes from verification Slow process of harmonization Lack of confidence in national human resources and reliance on foreign advisors 57

62 Annex 11: Documents from the 3 rd meeting of the Joint DZM-IRMM WG CARDS 2004 Programme CROATIA "ASSESSMENT OF NATIONAL PRIORITIES FOR METROLOGY AND CONFORMITY ASSESSMENT" JOINT DZM-IRMM WORKING GROUP MEETING 3 rd Strategic Session 16 March 2007, Zagreb, CROATIA State Office of metrology (DZM), ulica grada Vukovara 78 Room "Slavoljub Penkala" (prizemlje) Agenda SESSION TIME ACTIVITY ATTENDANTS Welcome words by DZM Director, Mr. M. Vuković Introductory session 09:30 10:00 Information about the project progress, Mr. N. Poposki, Project Leader Adoption of the minutes from the second session on 22 January 2007 Joint DZM-IRMM WG members Strategic discussions session 10:00 11:30 Concluding session 11:30 12:00 Presentation of the results of the strategic analysis, Mr. M. Vuković, DZM Information about inputs provided by the holders of the national measurement standards Discussion on possible strategic alternatives, moderated by Mrs A. Todorova, JRC-IRMM Coming project activities: time table, responsibilities Joint DZM-IRMM WG members Joint DZM-IRMM WG members 58

63 Alternative strategic options presented by DZM top management Option 1: DZM No organizational changes Improve DZM institutional capacity Option 2: DZM and HMI Option 3: HMI 59

64 CARDS PROGRAMME CROATIA 2004: Assessment of national priorities for metrology and conformity assessment JOINT DZM-IRMM WORKING GROUP MINUTES From the third strategic meeting: Zagreb, 16 March 2007 Participants: Mr Mirko Vuković, DZM Mr Miroslav Banić, DZM Ms Ljiljana Bašura, DZM Dr Vedran Mudronja, National standard laboratories, University of Zagreb, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, Laboratory for Length Dr Davor Zvizdić, National standard laboratories, University of Zagreb, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, Laboratory for process measurement Dr Mladen Franz, National standard laboratories, University of Zagreb, Laboratory for force Prof Josip Butorac, National Standard laboratories, University of Zagreb, Laboratory for electrical measurements Mr Patrik Stupin, Chamber of Commerce Dr Snježana Marinčić, Zagreb Public Health Institute Mirela Zečević, Ministry of Economy, Labour and Entrepreneurship Mr Nikola Poposki, EC-JRC-IRMM Mr Ani Todorova, EC-JRC-IRMM 60

65 INTRODUCTORY SESSION 1/ Welcome words - Mr. M. Vuković, DZM Director 2/ Information about the project progress - Mr. N. Poposki, Project Leader (oral presentation) 3/ Adoption of the minutes from the session on 22 January the minutes from the Second WG session were adopted 2nd STRATEGIC PLANNING SESSION 4/ Presentation of the results of the strategic analysis - Mr. N. Poposki, DG JRC-IRMM - Inviting each Croatian participant to identify the reason to establish the Croatian Metrology Institute. - Possible answers: a/ European Commission; b/ existing Law on metrology; c/ efficiency; d/ national laboratories - Enquiry results: 9 answers "c/ efficiency" and 2 answers "d/ national laboratories" - Underlining that organization of a National Metrology System is a matter of country's decision. - Explaining the essence of the accession process, as well as the role of the European Commission and the DG Joint Research Centre Institute for Reference Materials and Measurements, as an integral part of it. - Mr. M. Vuković, DZM - Providing information about: - strategic discussions within DZM, - on-going revision of the existing Law on metrology; - the deadline (26 th March 2007) for submission of the draft amendments to the Law has been fixed at governmental level. - Mrs. A. Todorova, DG JRC-IRMM - Providing information about the outcomes of the DZM workshop on 15 March Presenting the SWOT matrix of the national metrology system elaborated by DZM staff. - The existing deadline to submit the draft amended Law in the inter-ministerial consultations pipeline (26 March) raises inconsistency concerns. Under regular circumstances, the elaboration of the National Strategy for Metrology should precede any potential proposal for changes in the legislation. 61

66 5/ Information about inputs provided by the holders of the national measurement standards - Short information provided by A. Todorova and N. Poposki, JRC-IRMM - A summary of the discussions will be included in the impact assessment report. 6/ Discussion on the possible strategic alternatives - Mrs. A. Todorova, moderator - Mr. M. Vuković, DZM - Presented the alternative strategies formulated at the top management level of the State Office for Metrology in terms of needs for re-organization of the system. The following options have been explained: No organizational changes of the system: Option 1/ Improve DZM institutional capacity Organisational change of the existing system: Option 2/ Establishment of HMI as a public institution performing technical tasks in Fundamental and Legal metrology, while DZM conserves regulatory functions (legal acts, authorisations, metrological supervision, homologation of vehicles and control of precious metals) Option 3/ Establishment of HMI as a public institution performing technical tasks in Fundamental and Legal metrology, while DZM cesses its activity. Regulatory functions shifted as follows: legal acts, authorisations Ministry of Economy, Labour and Entrepreneurship; metrological supervision, control of precious metals State Inspectorate; Homologation of vehicles Ministry of the Sea, Tourism, Transport and Development or Ministry of Internal Affairs. - Considering given deadlines, the draft Law will be submitted for consultation on 26 March The solution that will be adopted is the second hypothesis from the above. The logic follows needed adjustments of the existing institution through gradual changes that would ideally end in a system described in the third hypothesis. - Stakeholders will have the opportunity to provide comments in the consultation process after the draft amended text is issued (target date 26 March 2007). - Prof. D. Zvizdić - Emphasised his expectation that: - the strategy will address all weaknesses identified in the SWOT matrix; - the State Office for Metrology will truly be engaged in the transformation process; - the draft amended Law will propose concrete solutions, while addressing existent unfunctionalities; - future decision-making process at the Croatian Metrology Institute should offer basis for distributed laboratories to take part in. - Mr N. Poposki, DG JRC-IRMM - The latest explanations given by DZM participants in the legislative drafting process bring some additional light over the need to establish the Croatian metrology institute. So far the project team was under impression that the current law on metrology envisages establishment of HMI. This conclusion derives from the English version of the Law on metrology distributed during the Inception phase in June In practice, it is only with the probable adoption of the amended text that this hypothesis would become reality. - Mr. M. Vuković, DZM 62

67 - Confirming the fact that previous DZM management has distributed the draft English version, stipulating that HMI establishment is only a matter of appointment of a director. - Mrs Lj. Bašura, DZM - Providing details about the distribution of the draft English version to other counterparts: the only English version distributed outside DZM was this draft. CONCLUDING SESSION - After discussions, a consensus was achieved on how to pursue the drafting process of the national strategy: a reduced group including Mr M. Vuković (DZM), Prof. D. Zvizdić (representative of the national standard holder laboratories), Mr N. Poposki and Mrs A. Todorova (DG JRC-IRMM) will deliver the draft to be distributed to the members of the WG for comments. Prepared by: Mrs Ani Todorova, Mr Nikola Poposki Authorised by: WG members during the fourth meeting in May 2007 Distributed to WG's members: Mr Mirko VUKOVIĆ, Mr Miroslav BANIĆ, Mrs Ljiliana BAŠURA, Prof Vedran MUDRONJA, Prof Davor ZVIZDIĆ, Prof Mladen FRANZ, Mr Patrik STUPIN, Mr Mladen JAKOVCIĆ, Mrs Snjezana MARINCIĆ, Dr Dubravko RISOVIĆ, Prof Josip BUTORAC, Mrs Ladislava ČELAR, Mrs Ani TODOROVA, Mr Nikola POPOSKI 63

68 Annex 12: Minutes from the strategic analysis review CARDS PROGRAMME CROATIA 2004: Assessment of national priorities for metrology and conformity assessment MINUTES From the Strategy drafting session: Zagreb, 04 April 2007 Participants: Mr Mirko Vuković, DZM Dr Davor Zvizdić, National standard laboratories, University of Zagreb, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, Laboratory for process measurements Mr Nikola Poposki, EC-JRC-IRMM As an outcome of the third JOINT DZM-IRMM WORKING GROUP session, it was concluded that the elaboration process of the National Strategy for Metrology can be more efficient if the drafting is performed in a reduced group. DZM top manager and one representative of the National standard-holder laboratories naturally should be part of it. Considering given deadlines and based on the commonly agreed structure of the Strategy, the guiding idea is that the text can be "filled-in", before being distributed for comments to the other group members. The provided input in the previous phases can therefore be incorporated in the draft Strategy document. The main points of these consultations on the strategy draft are summarized in the following lines: Common understanding of the objectives is crucial for achievement of our goals. The objective of this exercise is clearly a National Strategy for Metrology and related conformity assessment topic. It is focused on the definition of the system and should not be "institution-centred". Derived from the Governmental planning, the National "Metrology calendar" is expected to respect the following sequencing: 1. June 2007: Amended Metrology Act is adopted by the National Assembly; 2. By then: National Strategy for Metrology is presented in its final form; 3. Nov 2007: formal establishment of the HMI; 4. Dec 2007: Statute and Internal Acts of the HMI adopted; 5. Jan 2008: Government nominates an acting Director of HMI and allocates staff. The institution practically starts to be operational. 6. In parallel: The strategy for the newly established institution is drafted while reflecting the amended legal framework, the National strategy and identified priorities. An efficient National Metrology system that comprises a number of distributed National standard-holder laboratories has to be based on domestic Croatian metrological needs, as well as considerations about the larger European / International (scientific) framework. It has to answer: 64

69 a/ which metrological needs are we going to cover domestically on the highest national level? b/ what do we need in order to be able to participate in the larger scientific metrology playground? In the follow-up: Answering these questions means that the system has to reflect: 1. Existent and future calibration needs. making distinction between services provided at the highest national level in the traceability chain and industrial level calibrations; address existing needs by metrology field that are generated by the end-users, comprising: industry, research institutes, other laboratories, training needs etc.; 2. Coherent coordination tools. The performance of a National standard-holder laboratory should ideally be evaluated on objective basis, including: - Best response to existent end-users needs without distorting the market; - Accreditation; - Demonstrating scientific performance: BIPM CMCs, EURAMET ILC participations, publications, participation at seminars etc. Transparency while operating as part of the system: - Current mechanism provides the following financial framework for the distributed National standard-holder laboratories: o one scientific apprentice gross annual salary; o Accreditation related expenses; o Expenses related to Croatian participation at international metrology level (e.g. travel to EUROMET TCs etc.) And, o Necessary Investments in equipment (through reinvesting a share of the earned income by the laboratories and/or proper DZM funding). - One of the aspects that need to be clearly defined is the feed-back dimension mechanism for regular performance up-date by metrology field. Commonly agreeing that the proposed structure in the draft document is an appropriate one, the fourth chapter on the "Alternative Strategies" can increase the visibility by including a brief explanatory part. Thus, at the management level, option 2 is seen as a middle-term transitional solution towards option 3, following a longer-run evolutionary pattern. Existing "national metrology scheme" in the draft (p.9) is relevant. Thus, specifying existing vs. potential labs can be graphical and "division for metrology" can be clearly defined by "division for legal metrology". To think about a plastic explanation of the "metrological logic" for the rationale of the strategy (perhaps in a preface ), so it can be striking and understandable enough for non-metrology readers. E.g. of a national flag carrier or better? In order to improve the relevance of the input from national standard-holder laboratories, the originally provided data on performed calibrations should be refined by: o o Level of calibrations: highest national vs. industrial; Physical quantities: decompose provided synthetic tables by laboratory on quantities. Distribute the discussed draft to the working group members for comments and additional clarifications if needed. 65

70 European Commission EUR EN Joint Research Centre Institute for Reference Materials and Measurements Title: Assessment of National Priorities for Metrology and Conformity Assessment - Interim Report, CARDS 2004 Croatia Author(s): Nikola Poposki, Ani Todorova, Nineta Majcen, Philip Taylor Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities pp. 21 x 29,7 cm EUR Scientific and Technical Research series ISSN ISBN DOI /56032 Abstract The CARDS Croatia project targeting the "Assessment of national priorities for metrology and conformity assessment" has as a main objective formulating a strategic document that would define the priorities in the Metrology field on national level. The result of this process, including needs analysis and impact study, would offer an objective assessment of the Croatian technical needs in areas defined as priority ones. Finally, this is meant to offer solid ground for the future decisions on investment policy to be based on. The State Office for Metrology is the beneficiary institution within the defined scope of the activities, while in practice, representative stakeholders from the Metrology community in Croatia are actively involved. Furthermore, this project is closely related to a CARDS 2004 Croatia project on "Development of National Metrology, Standardisation, Conformity Assessment and Accreditation System". The later including a wider scope of Quality Infrastructure topics, would provide technical assistance to Croatian Metrology, targeting essentially the Chemistry sub-field. The management of both projects is conducted in parallel. This report presents the project progress achieved within the first reporting period (from 05/10/2006 to 05/04/2007) and offers planning provisions for the second reporting period (from 6/04/2007 to 15/08/2007). It reviews associated risks and assumptions from the point of view of the observations made during implementation and gives recommendation for further improvements. 66

71 How to obtain EU publications Our priced publications are available from EU Bookshop ( where you can place an order with the sales agent of your choice. The Publications Office has a worldwide network of sales agents. You can obtain their contact details by sending a fax to (352)

72 The mission of the JRC is to provide customer-driven scientific and technical support for the conception, development, implementation and monitoring of EU policies. As a service of the European Commission, the JRC functions as a reference centre of science and technology for the Union. Close to the policy-making process, it serves the common interest of the Member States, while being independent of special interests, whether private or national. LA-NA EN-C 68