The International Organization for Standardization (“ISO”) is the largest global developer of voluntary International Standards. They provide solutions and best practices that can be applied to virtually any technology and business. These standards help businesses and organizations increase productivity while protecting consumers and the environment.
These standards, which were established through global consensus, aim to eliminate trade barriers. ISO 9001 is a quality standard.
What Is ISO 9001:2015 All About?
ISO 9001 (Quality Management System) is the most recognized standard in the world.
Its purpose is to make it easier for organizations to meet the needs of their customers and other stakeholders. This is accomplished by creating a framework to ensure consistency in the provision of services of goods and/or products.
The 7 principles of quality management form the basis of this standard. They include customer focus, involvement by top management, and a desire for continuous improvement.
The following are the seven quality management principles:
- Customer focus2 – Leadership
- Engagement of people
- Process approach
- Improvement
- Evidence-based decision making
- Relationship management
These principles do not have a priority order. The relative importance of each principle can vary from organization to organization and could change over time.
Why Iso 9001 Certification?
The ISO 9001 certification is an objective proof for your staff, your clients, and your partners that customer satisfaction is at your core.
Iso 9001: The Key Benefits
Increased Revenues: leveraging ISO 9001’s reputation can help increase your chances of winning more contracts and tenders. Customers will also be happier and retain you.
Enhance Your Reputation: For organizations looking to find new suppliers, it is common for them to have a Quality Management System (QMS) based on ISO 9001.
Increased Customer Satisfaction: Understanding your customers’ needs, and reducing errors, will help you build customer confidence in the quality of your products and services.
Lower Operating Costs: by following industry best practices and focusing more on quality, it is possible to reduce costs.
Improved Decision-Making – You can quickly spot and address problems early, which allows you to make quick decisions to avoid making the same mistakes again.
Increased Employee Engagement: improve internal communication to ensure everyone is on the same page. Participating in process improvements will make employees happier and more productive.
Improved Process Integration by looking at the process interactions you can find efficiency improvement, reduce errors and make cost savings.
A Culture Of Continuous Improvement: this third principle of ISO 9001. It refers to an organized approach to identifying improvement opportunities and taking advantage of them.
Build Better Relationships With Suppliers: Best-practice processes can help to create more efficient supply chains. Certifications will point you in the right direction.
The Iso 9001 Certification Process
You will need to plan, commit and have the resources necessary to be ISO 9001-certified. QMS (our certification body) recommends that you follow a 3-step process.
- Gap Analysis
A consultant visited our offices to examine and document our current procedures and processes. The consultant then pointed out any areas that were not in line with the standards.
- Implementation
All modifications to existing processes and procedures must be made.
- Certificate
Every year, an auditor visits our offices to make sure that all documentation is being followed. A new certificate is issued once the auditor is satisfied.
