Reference measurement procedures must perform within certain quality limits to be successfully implemented in the chain of traceability as higher order elements. Based on literature examples and own recent contributions key elements of such procedures will be discussed. From a regulatory point of view, ISO guidance documents are flanking the development process and only listing of candidate reference method to the Joint Committee of traceability in laboratory medicine (JCTLM) ensure their world-wide visibility and usability. Lifecyle management of such methods is challenging, not surprising, technological advancements might limit the lifespan of listed method entities.
