Managing Risks and Opportunities in Metrological Expertise Processes

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to identify the risks of the metrological examination process based on the application of quality management methods so as to improve the effectiveness and work out measures for development opportunity management of organizations accredited in the field of ensuring the measurement uniformity. Within the frameworks of the studies, the risks of the metrological examination process of gas supply system documentation were assessed using the process “Forming comments on project documentation” as the riskiest, according to the experts. Using the cause-and-effect diagram, the risks of the studied process and their causes were identified. The root cause identified was “inattention of the expert.” The use of the “bow tie” method allowed building scenarios for the risk event development, and the analysis of these scenarios helped examine the proactive management of the organization’s risks in detail and to specify the types of barriers that reduce the likelihood of a dangerous event. In order to identify the capabilities of organizations accredited in the field of ensuring the measurement uniformity and selecting a development strategy, a strategic planning method known as SWOT analysis was used, and opportunity matrices were created. Since the human factor is the primary cause of risk, strategies for the development of the organization's personnel should be implemented first. Integral assessments of competitiveness and environmental favorability were calculated. Based on these assessments, strategies were developed to respond to threats while addressing identified weaknesses and capitalizing on opportunities. Three types of response strategies have been identified: strengthening (the introduction of new activities in the field of ensuring the unity of measurements), adoption (the development of digital technologies and automation), and use (the attraction of qualified young professionals). Specific measures have been developed for these strategies.