ISO Quality Services – September 2015 Newsletter
16 Sep, 2015
Welcome to the September edition of the ISO Quality Services Newsletter
Over the last month we have witnessed ‘Black Monday’ as the Chinese economy impacted global share prices, a successful Athletics championship and a new labour leader, as we all get ready to enjoy the Rugby World Cup!
What’s in this issue?
Congratulations to our Newly Certificated Clients
ISO 14001:2015, the revised Environmental Management Standard
New translation standard ISO 17100 beginning next month
Extreme Amazonian Culture, the debate continues…
5 tips to help strengthen your workplace culture
Thornton & Lowe Tender Training
Be part of our LinkedIn community
Congratulations to our Newly Certificated Clients
Ambicorp Ltd 
On Tuesday 18th August 2015, Ambicorp Ltd were presented with their ISO 9001 Quality Management Certificate.
Ambicorp Ltd is a private medical transportation company. They were founded in 2000 and are based in Nottinghamshire. To find out more about their services please visit their website.
The company strive to build strong working relationships, with all team members making the effort to listen and ask questions, ensuring they fully understand each individuals needs.
Lead assessor Percy Benyon presents Ambicorp Ltd management representative Luke Playden with their ISO 9001 Quality Management Certificate.
Jiva Healthcare Ltd
On Thursday 20th August 2015, Jiva Healthcare Ltd were presented with their ISO 9001 Quality Management Certificate.
Jiva Healthcare Ltd, founded in 2007 is an Adult Social Care Home, providing residential care, respite care and supported living across Sussex.
They believe that their philosophy of care is what makes Jiva unique – having a holistic approach to care that ensures each individual chooses the right path for themselves for a rich, fulfilling future.
Lead assessor Rick Allard presents Jiva Healthcare’s registered manager David Stanley with their ISO 9001 Quality Management Certificate.
ISO 14001:2015, the revised Environmental Management Standard
The ISO 14001 Environmental Standard has been revised and will be available soon.
The standard has grown to be one of our most popular and this revised edition will ensure the standard is in keeping with the latest industry trends, such as technology and changing stakeholder expectations.
Employing this standard helps you to move in a more sustainable and compliant direction, with many companies seeing advantages stemming from competitive and financial advantage as interest in this area continues to grow.
If you already have this standard then you have a three year grace period to upgrade, however we will be going through all the alterations in our upcoming Environmental Manager Training on the 21st October if you wish to get a head start in understanding the changes!
If you are new to this standard and looking at implementing the new revised edition and require more information please contact us on 01905 670303 or email info@isoqsltd.com.
New translation standard ISO 17100 beginning next month
What does this mean for the BS EN 15038?
The new ISO 17100 Translation Services Management Standard effectively supersedes the old European standard.
This means that any company looking to implement a translation standard should look to the ISO 17100.
With regards to companies who already hold the BS EN 15038, it is advised that you contact your certifier to agree the steps going forward.
Existing clients need not worry; all clients that hold the former standard will be contacted and subsequently supported through the transition process.
Here at ISO Quality Services Ltd we are currently mapping the changes between the BS EN 15038 and the new ISO 17100 to make it as seamless as possible for those with the original standard already in place.
What’s new within the ISO 17100:2015? Read the article in full here
We expect to be implementing the new standard for both existing and new clients from the beginning October onwards.
If you are an existing or prospective business seeking more information please contact us today on 01905 670303 or email on info@isoqsltd.com
Sources: ISO Standards
We’re Finalists! Apprenticeship Awards, Family business Awards
Last month we were fortunate enough to make it through to the finals of two awards; one recognising our ongoing commitment to apprentices, the other celebrating our success as one of the West Midlands family-run businesses.
Selected as a finalist in the category of SME Employer of the Year at the National Apprenticeship Awards 2015 (West Midlands region), this is further recognition for an apprenticeship scheme which saw ISO Quality Services named ‘Worcestershire Apprenticeship Employer of the Year 2014′.
We currently employ 3 apprentices and are hoping to take on 2 more apprentices this year. Since their introduction, our apprentices’ (Emily Cameron, Mike Williams and Natalie Allison) have become permanent members of staff while going on to study for further qualifications with the backing of the company.
This month also saw us reach the finals in the Family Business Awards in the category of Employer of the Year.
We look forward to both ceremonies with the Apprenticeship awards just around the corner on the 8th October at Edgbaston Cricket Ground in Birmingham. Wish us luck!
Meet Our Team
While it is our job to find out lots about you and your business requirements, we thought that you might like to get to know us a little bit better. Each month we will introduce you to a member of our team, giving you an opportunity to learn more about each of us!
First up is Natalie, who has been with ISO Quality Services for 2 years, originally joining the team as an Apprentice and is one of the main influencers behind our continued commitment to Apprentices. As we are finalists for this year’s National Apprenticeship Awards we thought it would be nice present Natalie and learn all about her contributions.
Get to know Natalie
What is your role in the office? New Business Development Administrator
What is your favourite thing about working at ISO Quality Services? As we are a small team, we all get along so well, we can talk to each other about anything, and we also do lots of social things with each other outside of work.
Tell us something that nobody in the office knows about you? I used to do Jiu Jitsu; I went around the country competing in competitions, winning Gold and Silver Trophies and Medals.
What advice would you offer any young person considering an apprenticeship? A lot of people assume that it is better to get an apprenticeship with a massive company; however I have found that working within an SME business, the company has more time to devote to your training and helping you throughout your apprenticeship.
ISO Icebreakers
What was the last movie you went to? What did you think? The last movie I saw was Sinister 2; I am a big fan of horror movies.
If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be? Steak and home-made chips.
If you were a super-hero, what powers would you have? I would have the power of invisibility, mind reading and the ability to have an infinite amount of things.
If you could share a meal with any 4 individuals, living or dead, who would they be? Tom Hardy, Daniel Craig, Freddie Mercury and Cillian Murphy.
If you could witness any event past, present or future, what would it be? The beginning of the universe.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be? Teleport
Extreme Amazonian Culture, the debate continues…
A recent article written by the New York Times has sparked a big industry debate surrounding Amazon, one of the world’s leading eCommerce giants, with professionals all over the world having their say.
In this article Amazon were condemned for exploiting staff, providing an insight into their seemingly negative work culture with horrors regarding the working lives of “Amazonians” being brought into the public eye.
This article showcased Amazon as being focused solely on sales, with employees being expected to work long hours; well into the evening, weekends and while on holiday. Clearly the work life balance is not a phenomenon given much consideration at Amazon.
This could be seen as quite surprising that an innovative and transformational company like Amazon could have this kind of culture in operation behind the scenes as they are known for exceptional customer service and customer focus.
Articles in support of Amazon and Jeff Bezo claimed that these working routines are nothing new and synonymous with common business practices.
All of these articles seemed to agree that Amazon would not have had this much success without these strict procedures. There is no doubt that Amazon has amassed many achievements and that is a testament to its employees, though we would find it difficult to believe that this is the only avenue for success!
Whatever your view, a company culture is an important factor in business strategy, customer focus, promoting shared ideals and ultimately the company will attract talented people to a business but the culture will retain them.
What do you think? What culture works well for you?
To read more on this topic please see this article in full featured in our latest news.
Sources: LinkedIn Pulse, CNBC, NY Times, Forbes
5 tips to help strengthen your workplace culture
Following on from the example of corporate culture at Amazon, you might now be questioning your own company culture.
Let’s first look at a couple of the tell-tale signs of a culture breakdown; have you lost any major clients? Had to say goodbye to talented or imperative employees?
Ask your employees or colleagues: is everyone aware of their individual goals and the goals of the company?
These tips could help to better understand your culture and how to properly implant it in the minds and hearts of your workforce.
- COMMUNICATION– Establish effective communication tools; last month we told you about Team Voice which allows colleagues to reward good efforts and helps create trust.
- QUALITY – Ensuring high quality helps give the team a sense of purpose and clarity. ISO standards can be used to address these concerns and establish protocols so that everyone knows their place in the company and processes.
- VALUES – Live and breathe your Mission and Vision statements and use them to create your company values, comprised of shared goals and traditions which your employees need to buy in to.
- HIRING – Your HR Department and hiring managers need to understand these values and emphasise the culture you’re trying to create when selecting candidates.
- SATISFACTION- Conduct regular satisfaction surveys; regularly ask employees how they would further develop and enhance company culture.
Culture is becoming a key differentiator in business as implementing an open corporate culture has been shown to encourage improved employee engagement and an increased chance to retain talented employees, both of which contribute towards increased staff satisfaction and productivity.
If your employees are more inspired to work harder and to a higher standard, your company is much more likely to win business and inspire existing customers.
Sources: Broad Vision, Business Financial Post
ISO Training Services Update
As an independent organisation, we understand how important training is to a company and have seen first-hand the boost to morale, profits, customer satisfaction and employee loyalty.
We are also aware that delivering high quality services, consistently, is a challenge for any organisation which is why we aim to make it easier for you.
Our courses are intensive but fully interactive sessions, which focus on the important element of training – the end application!
ISO 27001: INFORMATION SECURITY TRAINING
Dates: 29th/30th September 2015 (2 day course)
Cost: £450 + VAT per delegate
Why attend this course?
No information security management system can achieve its potential unless the underlying principles are understood, supported by management and become part of a company’s normal operating procedure.
This course will address the main principles and elements involved when adopting the ISO 27001 standard and provide a foundation for companies who are interested in using the standard as the mainstay for their information security approach.
You will gain an understanding of:
• Categorising and mitigating risk
• Scoping and maintaining an Information Security Management System
• Asset management
• Setting up security governance and associated roles involved
Course Content
• Principles and elements of ISO 27001
• Role of the information security management representative
• How to establish information security governance within your organisation
• Asset management – how to complete an inventory
• Completion of risk assessments
• Statement of applicability
• Document requirements
There will also be a chance for a questions and answers at the end of each session with a recap at the end of the day.
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGER TRAINING
Date: 21st October 2015
Cost: £295 + VAT per delegate
An ISO 14001 environmental management system is a systematic and process driven approach to controlling those aspects of your business that have a significant impact on the environment. The system is proven to make business owners and managers be more aware of their environmental responsibilities, including legal and regulatory accountabilities, and being able to manage and control the associated risks. Our Environmental Manager training will cover the following key topics, as well as allowing for question & answer sessions on the day:
- What is ISO 14001:2004?
- Principles of Environmental Management
- The role of an Environmental Manager
- Using the management system as a strategic tool to identify areas where cost savings can be captured
- How to monitor the effectiveness of the management system within the company
- How to integrate ISO into your daily business activities and strategic planning of the Organisation
- Continuous improvement
- A guide to internal auditing
Sounds interesting? Want to know more?
For further details of each course and others that we offer, we have a dedicated training website www.isotrainingservicesltd.com where all of our training information, courses and dates will be available, along with case studies, news articles and Meet the Trainer!
To book your place please call 01905 670303 or email our Training Co-ordinator training@isoqsltd.com
REMEMBER IF YOU ARE A CURRENT CLIENT OF ISO QUALITY SERVICES YOU ARE ENTITLED TO A DISCOUNT ON ALL OUR COURSES…PLEASE CONTACT US FOR MORE DETAILS
Thornton & Lowe Tender Training
In addition, in September our friends at Thornton & Lowe are running two training workshops in Manchester City Centre based on bidding and tendering practises. Founded in 2009 Thornton & Lowe has quickly grown as a niche bid management, procurement and training provider offering strategic guidance, operational support and business solutions to a range of clients.
These approved ILM Development Programmes in Bidding & Tendering include: 
An Introduction to Bidding & Tendering: Ensuring Prequalification (PQQ) Success
Wednesday 23rd September – Manchester City Centre [full day]
- Understanding the public sector procurement process
- How to find suitable opportunities
- Identifying barriers to PQQ success
- A pathway to contract readiness
- Gaining experience when you can’t win contracts
- Developing your PQQ response to maximise success
- Importance of evidence
- What does a good PQQ response look like
- Making use of feedback and continuous improvement
Who should attend? Click here for more information.
If you would like to express an interest, or you would like to book on this course, please click here.
Bidding & Tendering: Improving Performance and Winning More Contracts
Thursday 24th September – Manchester City Centre [full day]
- Developing a bid strategy and business winning systems
- Bid no bid procedures and reporting
- The importance of relationships
- Understanding bid requirements
- Developing discriminators and win themes
- Planning, preparing and writing a response
- Added value and social value
- Colour reviews
- Branding, design and use of colour
- Feedback, freedom of information and continuous improvement
Who should attend? Click here for more information.
If you would like to express an interest, or you would like to book on this course, please click here.
The cost for this is £285+VAT per delegate, which includes all course material, lunch and refreshments throughout the day.
What people have said about their past events!
“I found the day extremely useful and have had a lot of information to feedback to the rest of our team, so thank you!”
“The day was really helpful, a day well spent.”
Be part of our LinkedIn community
If you haven’t joined already – what are you waiting for?
ISO news, training updates and offers, meet the ISO QSL team and connect with other like-minded individuals.
Visit us at: ISO QSL LinkedIn Company page
Networking events in September-October
Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce –
Worcester Networking Breakfast
Date: Thursday 15 October 2015
Cost: £17.50 +VAT Members / £35.00 Non members +VAT
Time: Event begins from 07:30 AM
Venue: Worcestershire County Cricket Club, Worcester WR2 4QQ
Website: Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
Event Description
This business breakfast is held monthly and draws in a wide range of businesses from Worcestershire and beyond. With lots of opportunities for networking and a thought-provoking business speaker, it’s the best breakfast most of us will have in a month. The early start will fit in nicely with your working day.
Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce – How to make the most of your Membership
Date: 06.10.2015
Cost: FREE to members – £10.00 +VAT to non-members
Time: 09.00am – 11.00am
Venue: Birmingham Chamber of Commerce, 75 Harborne Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 3DH
Website: Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce
Event Description
Being a Chamber member provides you with lots of opportunity to network, raise your business profile and help you gain greater knowledge and skills which can give your business differentiation and a real advantage. This event gives delegates the chance to understand more about the products, services and benefits membership can bring your business and how to use these effectively to help develop and grow your business.
Whether you are a prospective member, have recently joined, or simply wish to refresh your knowledge about what is available in order to get the greatest return on your investment, this event is designed for you.
Director of Events, Henrik Court is the key speaker at this event. Henrik has more than seven years experience of working for the Chamber and will help you to create an action plan to take back to your business for future implementation. Premier Member Relationship Manager, Howard Blow, will also be speaking about the features and benefits of membership.
Steve Bushell from Probrand Ltd, will be sharing his experience of being a member and how this has helped to raise the profile of the company.
Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce – Business Breakfast with Kathryn James, Managing Director of The NEC
Date: 15.10.2015
Cost: £15.00 + VAT for members – £22.50 + VAT to non-members
Time: 07.30 am – 11.00 am
Venue: Birmingham Chamber of Commerce, 75 Harborne Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 3DH
Website: Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce
Event Description
In July 2007 Kathryn was appointed Managing Director of the National Exhibition Centre.
Kathryn is responsible for the strategic direction of the NEC – increasing revenue and profitability through the identification of market opportunities, developing existing business and building strong relationships within the industry and with key stakeholders.
In addition, she is heading up “Destination NEC”, a concept that is seeking to create a true destination at the NEC.
Kathryn will be speaking about the latest developments and progress of the NEC, including Resort World, and what this will mean for business in the region.
A full English breakfast will be served.
There will be an opportunity to network with other delegates before and after the main address.
Kidwells Networking Event
Date: 24.10.2015
Cost: FREE
Time: 7.30am – 9.30am
Venue: Kidwells House, 4 Coldnose Road, Rotherwas Industrial Estate, Hereford, HR2 6JL
Website: Kidwells Group
Event Description
No Frills, No Fuss, No 60 second intro – just a good straight forward FREE networking event with coffee and croissants.
There will be the opportunity at each meeting for one business to give a 10 minute overview of their business and to bring brochures and marketing material. The business chosen for the following meeting will be drawn from the business cards provided at the event.
Are you a client of ours? Would you recommend our services to your clients / suppliers…why not refer a friend?
Receive a free case of wine or a £50 Marks & Spencer’s Voucher…..the choice is yours!
(To qualify for this you must refer a successful lead).
To offer your referrals please contact – info@isoqsltd.com or call 01905 670 303
ISO Quality Services Ltd are proud to specialise in the implementation and certification of the Internationally recognised ISO and BS EN Management Standards.
Do you want to get ahead of your competition? Win more tenders or save time and money on reoccurring issues? Contact us today on 0330 058 5551 or email info@isoqsltd.com.
Alternatively, you can request a quote by filling out our enquiry form and a member of our team will be in touch shortly.
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