Speed or consensus?

It usually takes a lot of time for an SDO (Standard Development Organization) to make a standard. Organizations like ISO and IEC aim to create consensus. That is logical, and necessary, because standards need broad support to become successful.

Consensus costs time. Getting a standard developed by an SDO, and approved, typically takes many years.

Suppose you have a great product idea and need to agree an interface with products from other companies. What do you do? Go to IEC or bring the relevant companies together in an industry consortium?

It depends on the type of standard, obviously. But an industry consortium works well for the wireless power interface. Decision can be made quickly provided (a) the consortium has agreed goals and clear requirements, and (b) the number of voting members in the consortium remains small.

The maximum number of voting members is a delicate balance between the need to involve different stakeholders and the need for speed. Eight to ten voting members works well in my experience. With the right group of companies that will get you a standard within a year.

The finished result can then be offered to IEC or another appropriate SDO for fast track formal approval.

An industry consortium is fast, predictable, and costs less.