Learning About ISO Certification

A company’s ISO certification ensures that it is properly implementing certain standards in its quality management systems. With so many businesses in existence, evaluating various management systems is extremely difficult without some type of standard for reference. The International Organization for Standardization has created multiple standards for management excellence in many different operational areas. The ISO guidelines represent an internationally recognized set of regulations for good management practices. These standards are used by more than 800,000 businesses all over the world. 
ISO standards are applicable to a multitude of different types of businesses in various market sectors. Many businesses may follow the standards, but are not required to obtain ISO certification. However, some regulatory agencies mandate certification for businesses in specific markets. Another possible reason for a company to seek certification is for public relations purposes. Since the standards are so widely accepted, adherence to them can result in good publicity for the business. The standards may also help motivate employees through effective training techniques. 
The ISO itself does not provide certification. Instead, there are other companies that conduct independent audits to check for compliance to ISO standards. Many audit firms actually offer services to assist in the implementation of the standards. These firms perform needs assessments and training and review sessions to help a company conform to the standards. To confirm the company’s ISO certification, an audit firm performs a final standards assessment. This consists of a thorough review of the services, products, processes, systems, and people that the standards regulate. 
The ISO has management standards for an extremely wide range of business processes. The organization is also continually developing even more business standards. This means there is a specific set of standards for many different types of companies. To obtain ISO certification, a business must implement the standard that pertains to its type of operation. There are also various areas within a business that may or may not be ISO certified. Another function of an audit firm is to help the company decide which area would benefit most from ISO standards. Once a company is certified, it may be added to a published registry of certified businesses. This publication can give the company additional marketing benefits.
The most important function of ISO standards is ensuring consistency in the products and services a company offers. Many of the standards are set to achieve the specific goal of meeting customers’ needs. The goods and services provided by a company with ISO certification are more reliable and effective. Even though most businesses are not required to be certified, compliance with ISO standards can still facilitate quality management processes. 
Businesses can follow some standards that are intended only as guidelines. There is no certification available for these standards, which may include guidance for risk management and social responsibility. The most well-known ISO standard refers to quality management systems. This refers to how the company fulfills customers’ needs, and how it can enhance customers’ satisfaction. There are also standards regarding environmental management, which can help a company minimize or improve the effects it has on the environment.