Overview
The ISO 9000 certification is a set of
standards for better quality management within any organization. Though
not many people are familiar with the ISO 9000 certification and its
importance, it is fast becoming a norm to identify among competitors.
The ISO 9000 is set forward by the International Organization for
Standardization and is governed by accreditation and certification
bodies.
The organizations set standards for quality management systems in software, services industry, and manufacturing.To receive the ISO 9000 certification, it is critical that the certification process be followed exactly as explained in the documents. To that end, only a few dozen companies worldwide are authorized to complete these audits and award the ISO 9000 certification.
The organizations and companies that have been through this voluntary audit process are publicly stated as ISO 9000 certified, or that they are ISO 9000 registered.
How it Works
It can take you nearly a year to get the ISO 9000 certification. The certification process needs the help of a consultant and a register. The ISO documentation plan is drawn up by the consultant. This documentation is very essential for implementing the plan. The registrar will then conduct interviews to check if the plan is effectively implemented by the company. The interview is conducted both for the staff and the management. When the registrar interviews a large number of people, he/ she will be able to get the best way for implementation. The process requires exact documentation and demonstrations over time that the plan is being followed. Interviewing such a broad range of people gives the registrar the best picture of implementation.You have to submit many documents for getting an ISO 9000 certification. Some of the mandatory requirements include: periodic renewal of individual plans, effective monitoring of all plans, corrective action in case of any defects, preventive measures to avoid future errors, precise records of the processes, and standard operating procedures.
Benefits
Once a product or service is attached with an ISO label, the assurance it creates among customers is higher than any other common company. Seeking ISO certification also seems to be like that of a marketing tool. Companies have now started using the ISO certification as a weapon or label to draw more business to its frontier. To market product in terms of the International Organization for Standards can be services, software, or a physical object. Since businesses aim at quality output at the end of every process, businesses also look into partners who claim certification. Certifications can also lead to better company mergers and business acquisitions.ISO certification can reduce audits, improve employee motivation, work flow, and productivity. Businesses can look forward for international trade and increase profit.
Paying attention to quality in manufacturing makes it more likely that the effect will be better merchandise or services.