ISO 9001 Certification: Does Your Organization Have What it Takes? (Demo)

The world is currently at an age when quality is of utmost importance. Thanks to the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), the playing field has been leveled for all manufacturers by requiring them to formally state the quality of their products and processes. The international ISO 9001, a standard created by the organization, is one of the most valuable certification for manufacturers. So what does this credential mean? Online how-to guide eHow.com provides this answer:

ISO 9001, often called ISO 9000, represents a management methodology adopted by companies to deliver products and services that meet customer expectations. The International Organization for Standardization started working on these guidelines in the late 1980s. Several versions were issued and ISO 9001:2008 represents the latest version, dated from the year 2008.

A company interested in an ISO 9001 certification contacts an accreditation agency within their country. This group then contacts an auditing firm that sends one or several individuals to the company to evaluate the organization’s compliance to the ISO 9001 principles. These audits typically last a few days and conclude with a report listing the deviations. Auditors organize the gaps in major and minor disconnects. Major problems must be addressed before certification is granted. Minor ones receive a one-year grace period. Companies renew certification every three years.

Interested in getting an ISO 9001 certification? Here are a couple of tips on how you can succeed on the day(s) of the audit:

Accommodate the audit

Do everything within your power to make the auditor comfortable. Provide him with a space where he can work uninterrupted and has everything he needs including snacks, beverages, etc. Remember: if he is uncomfortable while doing his job, that negative feeling may find its way to your final audit report.

Stay current

Good business practices remain current at all times. Unfortunately, too many companies only update their practices as the audit day nears. Most auditors are aware of this approach, so it’s easy for them to spot changes that were only recently implemented. Keep your practices updated to the point where even a surprise audit will yield a minimum of issues.

If you believe your company is ready to be ISO-certified, call a certification services provider like International Standards Authority, Inc.

(Article Excerpt and Image from ISO 9001 Explained, eHow)