What's Happening?
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) will convene its 4th Blue Sky Forum on Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Data and Indicators from September 14-16, 2026, at its headquarters in Paris. This decennial event brings
together policymakers and practitioners involved in STI data and statistics to share experiences, generate new perspectives, and push the boundaries of measurement and analysis. The forum aims to inform the next generation of STI policies and decision-making. The decision to host this fourth forum in 2026 was reaffirmed by OECD Science and Technology Ministers and high-level representatives from over 40 countries in 2024. The Blue Sky Forum is organized under the auspices of the OECD Committee for Scientific and Technological Policy (CSTP), with support from its Working Party of National Experts on Science and Technology Indicators (NESTI). The event seeks to support the development and implementation of STI measurement standards and encourage experimentation and innovation in STI measurement and analytical approaches.
Why It's Important?
The Blue Sky Forum is crucial for shaping international discussions on reforming measurement frameworks for science, technology, and innovation. By bringing together a diverse group of experts, policymakers, and practitioners, it fosters cooperation and new partnerships in STI data and indicators. This collaborative effort is vital for developing robust and relevant metrics that accurately reflect advancements and challenges in STI. Improved measurement frameworks can lead to more effective STI policies, which are essential for economic growth, competitiveness, and addressing societal challenges. For the U.S., participation in such forums ensures that its national efforts to improve STI measurement are aligned with international best practices and that its data contributes to a global understanding of technological and scientific progress. The outcomes of these discussions can influence how countries, including the U.S., invest in research and development, assess innovation ecosystems, and formulate strategies for future technological leadership.
What's Next?
Leading up to the 2026 forum, the OECD will likely issue calls for contributions and session proposals, inviting experts from around the world to submit their research and insights. The discussions at the forum will aim to co-develop measurement and evidence strategies that support transformative STI policy agendas. Following the forum, the OECD and its member countries, including the U.S., will work towards implementing the agreed-upon measurement standards and analytical approaches. This could involve national initiatives to update data collection methodologies, refine indicator sets, and integrate new analytical tools into policy formulation processes. The insights gained will also inform future OECD publications and recommendations on STI policy, potentially influencing how governments allocate resources and prioritize scientific and technological endeavors globally.
Beyond the Headlines
The continuous evolution of STI measurement frameworks, as facilitated by events like the Blue Sky Forum, highlights a deeper challenge: accurately capturing the impact of rapidly advancing technologies and complex innovation ecosystems. Traditional metrics may no longer suffice to assess the full scope of digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and biotechnological breakthroughs. The forum's emphasis on experimentation and innovation in measurement reflects a recognition that new approaches are needed to understand the societal, economic, and ethical implications of these advancements. For the U.S., engaging in these discussions is not just about data standardization but also about maintaining its competitive edge and ensuring that its innovation policies are grounded in the most current and comprehensive understanding of the STI landscape. This ongoing dialogue is critical for anticipating future trends and proactively addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by emerging technologies.
