Innovation and standardization might seem polar opposites, but over many years various scholars have noted connections – very close ones, even – between the two. ISOfocus sat down with renowned researcher and professor Knut Blind to discuss the relationship – and “rules of the game” – and provide insights into how this knowledge can be useful to scholars, industrial strategists, policymakers and standards practitioners alike. What he says very much supports the notion that standardization and standards can be used to promote innovation. Here are a few highlights from the interview.