Organizations want to be recognized for their compliance with quality assurance and manufacturing standards in today’s global marketplace. Certification by the international organization for standardization, (ISO), establishes trust and credibility among consumers, stakeholders, and other business partners. ISO certification ensures that the entity meets international standards, particularly in trade situations. This article will discuss ISO certification, its importance, and how you can get it.
Why is ISO certification important?
ISO certifications are obtained from third parties and act as proof that a company abides by the international organization for standardization standards. Clients and other stakeholders are assured that the company is efficient and upholds high standards. ISO certifications are a sign of a company’s commitment toward important business goals such as customer satisfaction or production. Many public and private sector agencies require that companies have ISO certification before doing business with them.
How to become ISO certified?
Companies that ship internationally and mass production are the most likely to seek ISO Certification Australia. These companies deal with international trade agreements and laws. It is almost a requirement to be certified according to global standards. The ISO 9001 certification is highly sought-after. However, there are certain requirements that a company must fulfill before it can contact a certification body. These steps will show you how to earn ISO 9001 certification and an official audit.
- Develop a quality management system
To earn an ISO certification, the first step is to create a quality management system that is unique to your business. Analyze core business processes and identify areas for improvement. Document the processes of managers and teams at every level. The ISO standards will be used to help you create a QMS that is most effective. The new process should be described in a document and distributed to all levels of business.
- The new system of quality management is now in place
Next, you will need to start the new QMS. You should also monitor its progress. Make sure that all procedures are followed according to the new documentation. Make sure that teams are properly trained in new methods if the new system calls for new processes. A reporting system is often helpful so that both managers and team members can report issues as they arise. These issues can be reviewed and addressed as necessary.
- Perform an external audit
After the time has passed, and all issues have been addressed, you can schedule an audit with a certification body. An auditor will assess the QMS at all levels and look for any potential issues. Then, he or she will determine if it is compliant with ISO standards. They may require access to documentation to compare the actual work to be done.
- Register your quality management system
If the company passes inspection they can register their QMS to be certified. They collect all documentation and submit it for review to the certifying body. After the documentation is reviewed, the company receives certification. However, standards can change over time. The QMS requires that the company be audited every three years to maintain its certification. After passing the audit, the company is eligible for re-certification.
