ISO 9001 Certification – Answers the Most Frequently Asked Questions

In the fast paced, ever-changing world we live in, there is no room for businesses to become complacent. In order to be successful and continuously improve, steps must be taken to ensure that the company or organisation is running as effectively and efficiently as possible.

Companies across all sectors and of every type and size are turning to ISO 9001 certification to improve the way they do things, demonstrate their commitment to quality and better meet their customers’ needs.

If you have been thinking about ISO 9001 for your business, here we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about ISO 9001 certification.

· What is ISO 9001?

ISO 9001 is an agreed global standard developed by the Internation Organisation for Standardisation. It requires businesses to implement a quality management system (QMS) which works to improve the quality of services and products using the framework of effective processes, operations and leadership.

· What is a Quality Management System?

In simple terms, a Quality Management System (QMS) is a clearly defined set of business practices and processes which align with an organisations purpose and strategies to help them meet their customers’ requirements and enhance their satisfaction.

The QMS of ISO 9001 is built around the existing business, using a robust framework to improve the organisation by adopting seven quality management principles;

• Customer focus
• Leadership
• Engagement of people
• Process approach
• Improvement
• Evidence-based decision-making
• Relationship management

· What Type of Organisations is ISO 9001 Suitable for?

It is a myth that ISO standards are only meant for large organisations and huge corporations with lots of resources.

This powerful business tool is suitable for businesses of all size, type and complexity across various industries and sectors from construction, IT, manufacturing and hospitality to healthcare and engineering.

· What are the Benefits of ISO 9001 Certification?

ISO 9001 has the potential to provide business with many advantages for the company, shareholders, employees and customers such as;

• Increased efficiency and productivity
• Boost in profits
• Cut costs
• Higher customer satisfaction and retention
• More engaged employees
• Increased tendering opportunities and access to new markets previously out of reach
• More success at winning new contracts
• Better manage risks
• Improved business reputation

· Is the Process of ISO 9001 Certification Complicated?

The goal of ISO 9001 isn’t merely to tick a load of boxes and file some paperwork so that you can achieve certification. It is the actual process itself and the implementation of the requirements which truly make a difference to businesses for the better.

In order to gain accreditation, organisations need to follow the standards concepts and complete the required documentation.

· Are There Services to Help with ISO 9001 Certification?

For some smaller companies, organisations with lots of resources or those who have large number of the requirements already in place, this can be very straight forward. For businesses who are bigger and more complex, it could be well worth utilising the services of a professional ISO consultant who will be able to help guide you through the process in a way that is straight forward as well as time and cost efficient.