The lack of official standardised methods for lignin has meant that the results from analysis of lignin properties are largely dependent on which method or laboratory that is used. Therefore, relevant and harmonised analytical methods are essential to allow producers of biorefinery products to prepare specifications for their products and to improve the possibilities for systematic development of process and product. The current status of the most important methods for lignin characterisation has been evaluated together with method development or method adaption in order to meet the requirements for high-value lignin products.