What is ISO 9001?

5 Nov, 2014

ISO 9001The leading quality management system used by organisations around the world is the ISO 9000 suite. There are several sub-specialities under this umbrella but ISO 9001 is probably the most well-known. It lays out the principles and requirements of a quality management system and is used by over one million companies and organisations in over 170 countries around the world. Last updated in 2008 the standard is currently being revised with a new version expected to be ready by the end of 2015.

What is ISO 9001 certification?

Essentially it is a system that helps businesses put processes in place to use resources (including people) in the most efficient way possible for the particular business. Although it is a certification the objective of ISO 9001 is not so much about meeting a standard as it is about helping an organisation implement processes that will help it achieve its goals. The focus is on three areas:

  • Designing a programme that will maximise customer satisfaction
  • Implementing a system with processes that consistently meets desired customer standards
  • Monitoring, reviewing and improving processes to improve results on a continual basis

questionHow flexible is it?

The certification is designed to be adaptable so that it works around the organisation itself. This means it can be applied to businesses of any size or structure and across a multitude of industries. In addition, because the standard follows the principle of continual improvement it builds on progress already achieved and changes over time. The organisation has a major input into the design of the processes and how they relate to each other and as might be expected there is a high degree of customisation.

Which businesses will benefit most?

As ISO 9001 certification is a quality management system it works best for organisations that have a need for providing a consistent product or service and where customer satisfaction is important. In contrast with some other certification systems the size of the organisation is a minor consideration. Indeed companies with ISO 9001 include businesses in one location and less than five employees right up to large organisations operating across countries and employing thousands of staff.  Moreover, businesses in industries where statutory or regulatory requirements are a consideration often find they benefit from having a structured quality management system in place.

huge.0.644Benefits to businesses

Delivery: Companies that are growing strongly sometimes struggle to deliver for clients, which can causes issues like reputational damage and lost orders. Having a well structured quality management system like ISO 9001 in place helps companies to identify stress points and then allocate resources ahead of time.

Cost savings: Introducing efficient processes often results in waste reduction with commensurate savings for the business. This also helps to ensure resources are used most efficiently.

Customer satisfaction: With its focus on meeting customer expectations businesses retain existing clients, including identifying trends in purchases, which can help to address issues in the early stages. Staying close to customer can also help to monitor competitor activity and spot trends in the making.

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.

Related Posts

Ethos Group Become a SSAFA Corporate Partner

11 Apr, 2023

When we heard the news that Ethos Group had become Corporate Partners of fellow clients SSAFA, we wanted to share the amazing work they’ve been doing for the defence and armed forces community. 

Egg-cellent Support for Worcester Foodbank

4 Apr, 2023

The ISO QSL Good Egg Awards returned once again to support Worcester Foodbank, receiving an egg-cellent response of over 150 nominations.

The Return of ISO QSL Annual Charity Golf Day!

4 Apr, 2023

We are thrilled to announce the return of our annual charity Golf Day on Tuesday 13th June at Bransford Golf Club. It’s not just a Golf Day. This event is all about raising money for Midlands Air Ambulance Charity!

Recognise Your Good Eggs!

30 Jan, 2023

Yes, it’s that time of year again, your chance to recognise your egg-ceptional colleagues in our Good Egg Awards.