Every company is keen to offer customers and clients quality products and services but, at times, it is difficult to achieve. Companies can improve the quality and reputation of their business by implementing standards such as ISO 9001?
ISO 9001:2015 is the most recognised standard in the world. It is a quality management standard designed to increase effectiveness, efficiency and customer satisfaction through embedding a quality management system within the company. The aim is to increase productivity, reduce any unnecessary waste and costs while ensuring processes work efficiently and that the end services and products are manufactured to a high quality.
The 9001 standards can be applied to any businesses, and its general guidelines are flexible enough to be used across all sectors.
Companies and organisations who are planning to work towards any of the ISO standards may find it worthwhile to use a consultant who can support you, and your team, through the audits; advise on the most suitable processes, offer guidelines with paperwork and support the training of all staff. Your consultant should be competent in all aspects of business management systems, qualified, experienced, and a good communicator/trainer who you can work with as part of your team. Therefore, trust and integrity are important values to look for.
There is much to consider before setting out. ISO 9001 is not a rigid set of requirements but one that has to suit your own particular business. Various audits need to be undertaken including an internal audit to gather feedback from people who know the company well. There is also a second party audit to evaluate performance and/or a third-party audit when a UKAS accredited certification body comes to the organisation to carry out an evaluation. When this proves successful, your business will gain UKAS accredited 9001 certification. Implementing an effective management system is about adapting to a philosophy
The main principles of ISO 9001:2015 are:
- Customer focus
- Understanding the context of the organisation
- Understanding the needs and expectations of interested parties
- Quality Management Policy and Objectives
- Good leadership and commitment
- Internal and external communications
- Inclusion of staff
- Addressing risks and opportunities
- The management of the process
- Internal Audits
- The Management system Reviews
- Continual improvement
- A factual approach to decision making
- Relationships with suppliers and other interested parties
If you would like to talk about ISO 9001, (Quality) 14001 (Environmental) or 45001 Occupational Health & Safety in more detail, or any of the other standards, please contact us on 01273 510 725. We are based in Newhaven, East Sussex but cover the whole of the south of England and London.