Achieving ISO certification is a symbol of excellence for your existing and potential clients, as well as a commitment to both your service and your staff. ISO 9001, the international standard for quality management, is built around 7 key principles that allow you to prioritise consistency, customer satisfaction, and performance. In this blog, we will break down what they are, and how they can support your business.
Engagement of People and ISO Standards
When used most effectively, a management system like ISO 9001 features contributions from everyone in your organisation – not just senior management! Improving quality works on every level, so getting the most out of your management system requires collaboration.
Customer Focus
Customers are the heart of everything you do, and their feedback can help you to identify areas that require improvement. This facilitates meaningful progress towards ISO 9001 certification.
Leadership and ISO 9001 Certification
A strong management team will guide you towards certification, and allow your company to thrive with increased employee motivation and productivity.
Process Approach
The ISO 9001 standard includes a Plan Do Check Act principle, which promotes a process-driven culture across your company. It encourages you to consider your business as a whole entity, aligning departments and areas for greater efficiency.
ISO 9001 Requirements: Improvement
ISO 9001 expects continual improvement from your quality management; it allows you to assess the process at every stage, and adjust as necessary to remain on target.
Evidence-Based Decision-Making
Collecting reliable, accurate data is vital to support informed decisions, particularly when identifying areas for improvement. Information like this should be available to everyone who needs it within your organisation.
Relationship Management
Finally, cultivating trusting and beneficial relationships with suppliers will support your long-term strategies and goals, whilst also balancing short-term financial gains. This ensures that your business model and aims for the future are set up for success.
For more information on ISO 9001 standards, you can contact the Mark1 team here.
Source: https://www.qmsuk.com/iso-standards/iso-9001/iso-9001-principles
