City character and standardisation – A historical perspective – The case of Delft

Authors

  • Henk J. de Vries Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University, The Netherlands | Faculty of Technology, Policy & Management, Delft University of Technology, The Netherlands https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4535-2715

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.59490/jos.2025.7865

Keywords:

Standardisation, City character, Case study research, History, Theology, Delft

Abstract

This paper explores the relation between a city’s character and standardisation activities in that city, taking the case of the Dutch city of Delft. In Delft’s 2000 years of history, and in the current situation, many cases of standards development and use can be found. The analysis shows that these show a huge variety. Several cases go beyond ‘normal,’ and had or have substantial impact. This strong standardisation profile is in line with the city’s character expressed in its branding. However, causal relationships cannot be found. The paper seeks for alternative explanations for the correlations. Future research may deepen this study and replicate it in other cities.

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Crop of: Johannes Vermeer, View of Delft, Mauritshuis, The Hague

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Published

2025-07-25

How to Cite

de Vries, H. J. (2025). City character and standardisation – A historical perspective – The case of Delft. Journal of Standardisation, 4. https://doi.org/10.59490/jos.2025.7865

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Research articles