BSJ head says greater use of standards can generate growth for small businesses

Executive Director of the Bureau of Standards Jamaica (BSJ), Stephen Wedderburn, says micro, small and medium enterprises can generate more growth with greater use of standards in their operations.

“If our Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) want to grow to the point where they can export their products, once they follow the guidelines and standards…, then they can increase their markets,” Wedderburn advised.

He explained that standards could assist in the efficient production of goods, while at the same time, strengthen the ability of businesses to engage in international trade.

Speaking at a JIS Think Tank on June 7, Wedderburn said through the BSJ, companies could receive training in areas such as quality and standards, food safety and business process management.

“We have a number of training services at the Bureau. There is training for the public which is a face to face arrangement for individuals, in –plant sessions for the large operations and attachment training which is done for companies,” he explained.

With the operational changes now under way, Wedderburn stated that the BSJ has created the opportunity for the agency to assist businesses through the development, promotion and use of standards.

“Standards are everywhere and play an important role in the economy by facilitating business interaction, enabling companies to comply with relevant laws and regulations, which also helps with trade and commerce,” he shared.

He is therefore encouraging business owners to see standards as a tool that can help them, rather than a hindrance.

“We have found that many people see standards as something they are forced to comply with and so if there wasn’t a requirement for them to obey…, they would ignore it all together,” Wedderburn said.