1. Scope

Keywords

Rationale

As supply chains continue to evolve into complex, digital ecosystems, the adoption and integration of Critical Emerging Technologies (CETs) require structured, transparent, and repeatable methods for evaluating their relevance, maturity, and impact. While a previous ASTM classification standard defines a framework for categorizing CETs in the digital supply chain, the implementation of that classification depends on the availability of a consistent and standardized evaluation mechanism. This Guide provides the methodology for developing evaluation rubrics that will serve as a direct input to the classification process, enabling the mapping of contextual criteria—such as functionality, scalability, interoperability, and regulatory alignment—into an ontology-based knowledge graph. These rubrics form the logic layer that drives the classification by enabling automated, data-driven analysis and supporting intelligent decision-making tools. The standard will be used by technology evaluators, domain experts, system architects, and supply chain stakeholders involved in the design and operationalization of CET evaluation tools. It ensures that scoring criteria are consistently applied, traceable, and aligned with industry and regulatory priorities. Ultimately, the guide enables the full realization and usability of the classification standard by standardizing the creation of the evaluation structures that power it. Stakeholder roles and classifications referenced here are aligned with the definitions provided in WK88967 – Stakeholders Terminology, which offers a common framework for identifying and understanding stakeholder types across supply chain and goods movement process activities.