Open Process AutomationTM Forum (OPAF) is an organization comprising end users, companies supplying hardware and software and integrators as well as academic institutions working together to create a set of standards for driving open, standards-based interface to automation and process control system architecture. The benefits to suppliers, end users and system integrators from utilization of an open, interoperable, secure, standards-based architecture for process control will be described. We will show how the structure of the OPA Forum differs from other standards creation bodies and is complementary to similar industry activities such as NOA. The goal of the forum is to create a thriving ecosystem for the component suppliers, integrators and end users that drives greater innovation and facilitates new technology adoption. The forum is aiming to create a standard of standards. The forum has three main working groups – Business, Conformance, and Technology. The role of the business working group is to ensure that the technical standards and conformance policies address business needs. The technology working group is charged with developing the standards to focus on the interoperability, security and portability aspects. The presentation will provide a technical overview into the published standards and planned work of the forum. Presenters: The Open Process Automation Forum Julie Smith, DuPont and Jacco Opmeer, Shell Global Solutions, B.V. Julie Smith is currently Engineering Manager with DuPont, in Wilmington, DE. Jacco Opmeer is currently working in Shell Projects & Technologies on strategical themes related to Process Automation.