The digital reference material document (DRMD): a new member of the DCC-based family of quality documents

Abstract The digital reference material document (DRMD) extends the digital calibration certificate (DCC)-based family of digital quality documents by offering a flexible, machine-readable format for reference material documents in line with ISO 33401:2024. The DRMD is written in XML (Extensible Markup Language, a universal format for structured data exchange) and open source. It supports diverse stakeholder needs—from laboratories and reference material (RM) producers to database operators—by enabling data integration, digital signing, and optional human-readable attachments. The DRMD ensures interoperability through harmonized metrological data and optional linking to external vocabularies. Current developments include a beta XML schema, a DRMD editor, and integration into eCerto, a tool for RM certification. The DRMD is a step toward a unified digital quality infrastructure, and stakeholder feedback is invited to guide its evolution.