To play their role as essential tools for the achievement of comparability
and traceability of measurements, the upcoming generation of certified refe
rence materials will continue to be the subject of increased requirements r
elated to their preparation, characterization, monitoring, documentation, a
nd distribution. An analysis is made of the most important aspects not only
related to the physical form of future CRMs, the determination of their sh
elf-life, and their certification, but also to increased requirements relat
ed to their distribution, including required additional documentation. Two
examples of cost breakdown demonstrate the need for improved productivity o
f certification projects and more efficient marketing.