At its virtual plenary meeting on June 23-25, 2020, ISO/IEC JTC 1 formally established Working Group 14 (WG 14) on Quantum Computing. WG 14 originated from the earlier Study Group 2 and Advisory Group 4, which had evaluated standardization opportunities in the field since 2018.
According to the terms of reference adopted at the plenary, WG 14 was assigned four responsibilities: to serve as the focus and proponent of JTC 1’s quantum computing standardization program; to identify gaps and opportunities; to develop and maintain a list of existing quantum computing standards and projects across ISO, IEC, and JTC 1; and to develop deliverables in the area of quantum computing.
WG 14 was also designated as a systems integration entity, charged with maintaining relationships with other ISO and IEC technical committees and external organizations involved in quantum computing standardization. By March 2021, WG 14 had grown to include 110 experts from 19 national bodies.