Customer-Driven Standardization in the Forensic Science Market in England and Wales

Forensic Science Provision In England And Wales

The governance of the provision of forensic science services, and the organisational structure and management of individual forensic science laboratories, varies widely between different countries, regions and jurisdictions. Nonetheless, across this varied forensic landscape, providers face similar economic challenges. Commercial imperatives have intruded, to a greater or lesser extent, on scientific autonomy, with most forensic providers now recognising the need to demonstrate a willingness to embrace new management techniques, to internalise regulatory objectives, and to enter into rudimentary forms of competition. However, despite the increasing pressure of commercial imperatives, the overwhelming majority of developed countries still choose to deliver vital forensic services through a system of public provision.¹ The current system of forensic science provision operating in England and Wales is therefore quite, exceptional, insofar as it is achieved through a system of marketised delivery.