The panel finds the work in CSTL to be highly relevant industrially. Metrics should include project-oriented interactions as well as workshops. Appropriate metrics will vary with the maturity of a particular program.

Facility inadequacies, which prevent some state-of-the-art measurement work, are being addressed as funding permits. However, continuous improvement of facilities is needed to ensure that current and future work can be accomplished. A plan for renovation and for meeting facilities needs during the building of the Advanced Measurement Laboratory is still necessary to address major problems, especially in Building 3 in Boulder. The new space in ACSL is an excellent tool that has improved productivity.

The panel is pleased to see that CSTL leadership continues to improve administration and management of the NTRM Program and urges that these efforts continue.

Progress in CSTL's utilization of the Internet since last year is applauded. The NIST Web presence, however, needs an overall design and strategy with a customer focus. This is a major method of customer interaction and requires high-level attention.

The panel notes that the biotechnology industry is working on a time line different from that of other industries serviced by CSTL. The panel recommends that NIST develop a cohesive strategy in biotechnology that addresses the rapid pace of change in this important industry.