ISO 9001
Quality Management Standard
The ISO 9001 standard is a part of the 9000 family of standards, which have been created by the International Standards Organisation as part of a highly recognised and respected framework of Management Systems, which also includes ISO 14001.
By effectively implementing ISO 9001:2008, companies will adopt the systems and procedures that ensure greater consistency of performance, improved working practices, and also make the company’s products and services more customer focused. All of which leads to improved customer satisfaction and ultimately, increased success and profitability.
The Quality Management Standard is as relevant for the smallest of businesses as it is for the largest international organisations. Included within the benefits you’ll enjoy are a clear understanding of your policies and objectives, plus an improved perception of customer needs. It will also enhance communications both internally and externally. ISO 9001 will help you understand your statutory and regulatory obligations, whilst at the same time it will clearly define responsibilities, reduce waste, improve consistency and traceability, and generally raise the morale and motivation of your employees.
If you already have certification to the Quality Management Standard but you aren’t realising these benefits then something is missing. That is why we work only with UKAS accredited certification bodies. This is the best way to ensure that you and your customers are getting the most from your certification. Remember, it is the application of the standard and not the certificate on the wall that reaps the rewards. Those subscribing to the standard for the sake of a certificate are buying a very expensive piece of paper.
For an initial informal chat and free consultation about opportunities, procedures, training and costs, please contact us.
ISO 9001 Advantages
There have been many independent studies into the effectiveness of the ISO 9001 standard over the years and there is a general consensus that its proper implementation brings many improvements. This has been confirmed by the comparison of ISO 9001 certified organisations with like organisations that are not certified. Those subscribing to the standard show greater growth and increases in profits etc.
These advantages have been demonstrated many times and have consistently shown that the Quality Management Standard improves efficiency and the effectiveness of an organisation’s processes by highlighting existing deficiencies. Employees become better motivated to perform, more aware of their responsibilities and their morale is improved as their key roles are more clearly defined.
Communication is improved both internally and with external bodies, including customers. The focus on improved customer satisfaction brings better consistency in providing the right product, in the right place and at the right time, which in turn results in more repeat business.
The proactive nature of measuring processes prevents the production and delivery of rejects, reduces waste and increases productivity. In many organisations the savings realised through this measuring process alone offsets the cost of implementing the ISO Quality Management System.
All of these improvements lead to increases in profits, which is good news whether you are the owner of a micro business or a stakeholder in a multi national organisation.
