Digital measurement systems, automated processes, and a global network. Over the course of two years, metrology institutes around the world collaborated on digital solutions, ranging from web portals to digital calibration certificates. The global CABUREK programme demonstrates what they have learned and how international cooperation is paving the way for the digital future of metrology.
Digital transformation is reshaping not only economies and societies, but also the science of measurement—or metrology. Metrology institutes play a central role within the system of institutions, standards, and services known as the Quality Infrastructure (QI), which ensures the quality and safety of products and processes, thereby supporting trade, competitiveness, and consumer protection. To continue fulfilling these functions in an increasingly digital world, national metrology institutes are working to modernise their processes, infrastructure, and services.
However, many institutes face significant challenges: processes are often still paper-based, digital strategies are lacking, and technical capacities are limited. At the same time, expectations are growing: data must be used and shared more efficiently, services delivered digitally, and international standards met. Digitalisation involves far more than simply transferring analogue processes into digital formats. Processes need to be fundamentally rethought and realigned in order to fully harness the potential of digital technologies.
CABUREK provided a unique opportunity to accelerate the digital transformation in metrology, connect with international experts, and apply global standards and solutions.
This is precisely where the global CABUREK programme came in. As part of the BMZ-funded project “Metrology for Digital Transformation in International Cooperation” (M4DT-IC), the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) supported national metrology institutes worldwide in advancing their digital transformation and developing digital competencies and services.
CABUREK („Capacity Building in Technical and Scientific Organizations Using Regional Experience and Knowledge“) is a project methodology developed by PTB that focuses on knowledge exchange, international cooperation, network building, and the close involvement of users. Over a period of almost two years, participants worked in international working groups on their own national digitalisation projects, supported by experienced experts from various institutes.
The programme provided practical tools and a strong professional network, supporting the progress of future-ready electronic verification certificates that are aligned with international best practices.
Together, participants developed strategic plans for ten national metrology institutes, pilot projects for process automation, web portals, and new approaches to stakeholder involvement. Particular progress was achieved in the field of digital calibration certificates. The working group developed DCC solutions in both XML and PDF formats, including PDF documents with embedded XML files and QR codes for authentication. In addition, participants documented workflows, developed roadmaps, and identified success factors as well as potential risks for future digitalisation projects. As part of the CABUREK process, the M4DT-IC project also developed knowledge products, so-called “information modules”, which will be made available to other global PTB project partners in the future.
The CABUREK programme was a transformative experience in terms of implementing digital solutions in metrology. It promoted collaboration, improved internal capacity, and helped to align our project with national and international digital transformation goals.
The programme officially concluded with a final workshop hosted by the National Institute of Metrology Thailand (NIMT) in Bangkok in November 2025. In addition to presenting the project results, NIMT organised an awareness-raising seminar for national stakeholders, which was attended by around 150 representatives from government agencies, industry, calibration laboratories, and NIMT staff.
The programme not only strengthened technical expertise, but also built international networks and laid the foundation for future digital innovation in metrology. The exchange will continue beyond the project’s completion: through the newly founded IMEKO TC6 sub-committee “M4DX Network”, participants will continue to share experiences, learn from one another, and work together on shaping the digital future of metrology.
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