The push to formalize standards for the smart grid has generated tremendous pressure on the standards process.  Any imposed interoperability standards must minimize total cost while providing the necessary functionality to cover all foreseeable IT needs.  Total costs can be minimized and rapid deployment of smart grid hardware ensured by adopting standards that:

• Are ready to implement today
• Have been proof-tested in multiple existing installations.
• Offer true interoperability in “off-the-shelf” products available in today’s market.
• Allow product development that does not require extensive customization by the end user - thus significant technical or IT staffs or outside consulting support are not required.
• Can be used either with or without messaging infrastructure (e.g. “middleware”).
• Are extensible without compromising the basic interoperability of the interface.
• Are scalable to allow use for any size utility or information demand.
• Are supported by wide range of vendors.
• Have an existing, modestly-priced commercial testing process to help utilities and vendors ensure interoperability.
• Have a large number of individuals trained in the use of the specification.

The MultiSpeak Specification meets all of these requirements today and is the only specification or standard covering the distribution portions of the smart grid that does so.