The International Organisation for Standardisation or, ISO, is responsible for establishing qualities of standards across the world for business today. Made up of the national bodies in over 160 countries, it allows commerce to be conducted on a level basis across the globe.
The standards it establishes cover all industries, and certify all processes, systems, products, services, materials and so forth. It provides assurance to customers, whilst the assessment and certification process gives the marketplace a confidence that could in no other way be realised.
ISO certification also gives companies the necessary tools to empower their staff to unite behind a common ideal. Through this buy in, profits can be increased, productivity stepped up and attitudes developed to deliver better results.It is no easy ride however; the process is rightly daunting and entails a lot of investment financially and, in man hours. The benefits received over the long term are worth it however and, something which any self-respecting member of management will appreciate.
Further than the lengthy and drawn out process to attain the mark, to maintain certification regular internal audits are necessary. However, this too has benefits as it allows any nonconformity regards procedures and documentation to be identified before significant and, costly issues, arise.This constant process of revaluating allows a company to develop, be proactive and maintain their standards and quality at every step. Training programs become more coherent, as do the recruitment arrangements, whilst costs are ever more brought under control.
There are an ever growing number of companies who provide certification, across the range of ISO management standards including ISO9001, ISO27001, OHSAS 18001 and so forth. All of which have their own vagaries.Choosing a provider who can provide the appropriate support and guidance from inception to delivery therefore is important. At DNV, we understand this and work side by side with our partners to continuously deliver fully accredited certification.
ISO certification
ISO management standards