In today’s rapidly changing world, where technology evolves at breakneck speed and global challenges demand innovative solutions, the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) plays a crucial role in shaping the future landscape of industries worldwide. ISO standards provide a framework for businesses, governments, and organisations to ensure quality, safety, and efficiency in their products, services, and processes. As we look ahead, several emerging trends are shaping the future of ISO and driving the evolution of standards across various sectors.

Embracing Digital Transformation

The digital revolution has transformed the way we live, work, and interact with technology. As industries digitise their operations, ISO standards must adapt to address the unique challenges and opportunities presented by this digital transformation. From cybersecurity to data privacy and interoperability, ISO is at the forefront of developing standards that ensure the seamless integration and secure operation of digital systems and services.

Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility

With growing concerns about climate change and environmental sustainability, businesses are under increasing pressure to operate in an environmentally responsible manner. ISO standards related to environmental management, renewable energy, and sustainable development are becoming increasingly important as organisations strive to reduce their carbon footprint and minimise their impact on the planet. In the future, we can expect to see a greater emphasis on sustainability within ISO standards, reflecting the urgent need for collective action to address environmental challenges.

Agile and Adaptive Standards Development

In the past, ISO standards development processes were often slow and bureaucratic, making it difficult to keep pace with rapid technological advancements. However, in response to the changing needs of industry and society, ISO is embracing a more agile and adaptive approach to standards development. By leveraging emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and blockchain, ISO is streamlining its processes and enabling greater collaboration and innovation among stakeholders. This shift towards agility and adaptability will ensure that ISO standards remain relevant and effective in a rapidly changing world.

Inclusivity and Diversity

In an increasingly interconnected and diverse global economy, it is essential that ISO standards reflect the perspectives and needs of all stakeholders. Recognising the importance of inclusivity and diversity, ISO is taking steps to ensure that standards development processes are transparent, participatory, and representative of a wide range of voices and experiences. By fostering greater inclusivity, ISO can develop standards that are more robust, equitable, and reflective of the diverse needs of society.

Conclusion

As we look to the future, the role of ISO in shaping the global landscape of industry and innovation will only continue to grow in importance. By embracing emerging trends such as digital transformation, sustainability, agility, and inclusivity, ISO is positioning itself as a driving force for positive change in the world. Through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to excellence, ISO standards will continue to play a vital role in ensuring quality, safety, and sustainability across all sectors of the economy.

In today’s dynamic business landscape, the pursuit of excellence isn’t just a lofty aspiration; it’s a strategic imperative. Organisations worldwide strive not only to meet but exceed customer expectations, minimise environmental impact, and ensure the safety and well-being of their workforce. Achieving these goals demands more than mere compliance; it requires a commitment to continuous improvement ingrained into the very fabric of organisational culture. This is where ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 come into play, serving as guiding frameworks for quality, environmental management, and occupational health and safety respectively, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Understanding Continuous Improvement

Continuous improvement, often referred to as Kaizen in Japanese philosophy, is the relentless pursuit of incremental enhancements in processes, products, and services. It’s about empowering employees at all levels to identify opportunities for improvement, experiment with new ideas, and implement changes systematically. At its core, continuous improvement is not a destination but a journey—an ongoing quest for excellence fuelled by a commitment to learning, innovation, and adaptability.

ISO 9001: Enhancing Quality Management

ISO 9001 is the gold standard for quality management systems (QMS), providing a framework for organisations to enhance customer satisfaction by consistently delivering products and services that meet or exceed expectations. At the heart of ISO 9001 lies the principle of continuous improvement, manifested through processes such as:

• Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) Cycle: A fundamental concept in ISO 9001, PDCA serves as a roadmap for iterative improvement, enabling organisations to plan, implement, monitor, and refine their quality management processes.
• Quality Objectives and Metrics: ISO 9001 encourages organisations to establish measurable quality objectives and regularly assess performance against predefined metrics. By analysing data and identifying trends, organisations can pinpoint areas for improvement and drive ongoing enhancements.
• Customer Feedback and Satisfaction: Continuous improvement in ISO 9001 is intrinsically linked to customer feedback and satisfaction. By soliciting customer input, addressing concerns, and incorporating suggestions for improvement, organisations can refine their processes and deliver greater value to stakeholders.

ISO 14001: Promoting Environmental Sustainability

In an era marked by growing environmental concerns, ISO 14001 provides a framework for organisations to proactively manage their environmental impact and contribute to sustainable development. Continuous improvement in ISO 14001 revolves around:

• Environmental Performance Evaluation: ISO 14001 encourages organisations to assess their environmental performance systematically, identify areas of inefficiency or non-compliance, and implement corrective actions to mitigate environmental risks.
• Resource Efficiency and Waste Reduction: Through initiatives such as waste minimisation, energy conservation, and recycling programs, organisations can drive continuous improvement in environmental sustainability, reducing their ecological footprint while enhancing operational efficiency.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Engaging with stakeholders, including regulatory authorities, local communities, and environmental advocacy groups, is crucial for driving continuous improvement in ISO 14001. By soliciting feedback, addressing concerns, and collaborating on environmental initiatives, organisations can foster a culture of shared responsibility and environmental stewardship.

ISO 45001: Safeguarding Occupational Health and Safety

Ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of employees is paramount for organisational success, and ISO 45001 provides a framework for managing occupational health and safety (OH&S) risks effectively. Continuous improvement in ISO 45001 entails:

• Risk Assessment and Hazard Identification: By conducting thorough risk assessments and identifying workplace hazards, organisations can proactively mitigate OH&S risks and prevent accidents, injuries, and occupational illnesses.
• Employee Training and Empowerment: Empowering employees with the knowledge, skills, and resources to prioritise safety and participate in OH&S initiatives is essential for driving continuous improvement in ISO 45001. Training programs, safety awareness campaigns, and employee feedback mechanisms can enhance safety culture and foster a proactive approach to risk prevention.
• Incident Investigation and Root Cause Analysis: When incidents occur, whether minor near misses or serious accidents, conducting thorough investigations and root cause analyses is critical for driving continuous improvement in ISO 45001. By identifying underlying causes, implementing corrective actions, and sharing lessons learned across the organisation, organisations can prevent recurrence and strengthen their OH&S management systems.

Conclusion

Continuous improvement is the cornerstone of organisational excellence, driving innovation, efficiency, and stakeholder satisfaction across diverse domains. In the realms of quality management, environmental sustainability, and occupational health and safety, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 serve as catalysts for continuous improvement, providing structured frameworks and guiding principles for organisations to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape. By embracing the ethos of continuous improvement and integrating it into their organisational DNA, businesses can unlock their full potential and embark on a journey towards sustained success and resilience in the face of change.

 

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, maintaining a stable and efficient management system is crucial for success. One powerful solution that businesses are increasingly turning to is the hiring of ISO consultants. This shift in the market reflects a recognition of the need for specialised expertise and a desire for simplicity and effectiveness in system execution.

1. Navigating Staff Turnover with Expert Guidance

Staff turnover is a common challenge faced by many organisations. High turnover rates can disrupt established systems, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs. ISO consultants offer a strategic advantage by providing expert guidance that remains consistent despite changes in internal personnel. With their specialised knowledge, consultants can seamlessly integrate into the organisation, ensuring the continuity and stability of the ISO management system.

2. Simplicity in System Execution

One of the primary benefits of hiring an ISO consultant is the simplicity they bring to system execution. A good consultant focuses on streamlining processes and eliminating unnecessary complexities. This ensures that the ISO management system is not only effective but also user-friendly. A simplified system is easier for employees to understand and adhere to, fostering a positive organisational culture.

3. Avoiding Internal Overcomplication

Internal resources, while well-intentioned, may inadvertently overcomplicate the implementation of ISO standards. This can lead to confusion among employees and hinder the overall effectiveness of the management system. ISO consultants, being external experts, have a fresh perspective and can identify and eliminate unnecessary complexities. This results in a leaner, more efficient system that aligns with industry best practices.

4. Cost-Saving Opportunities

Hiring a full-time internal resource to manage the ISO system can be a costly endeavour. ISO consultants offer a cost-effective alternative. Organisations can benefit from the expertise of a consultant without the long-term financial commitment of a full-time employee. This cost-saving aspect is especially significant for smaller businesses with limited resources, allowing them to allocate funds to other critical areas of their operations.

5. Broadening the Pool of Talent

Engaging an ISO consultant opens up opportunities for organisations to broaden their pool of talent when hiring for positions related to quality or safety, such as a SHEQ (Safety, Health, Environment, and Quality) officer. Since the consultant can lead the system’s implementation, there is flexibility in hiring a candidate with lesser skills and experience, who can then grow into the role under the consultant’s guidance. This not only provides a pathway for career growth but also ensures a continuous improvement mindset within the organisation.

In conclusion, the decision to bring in an ISO consultant is a strategic move that goes beyond simple compliance. It represents a shift in market dynamics towards recognising the value of external expertise, simplicity in system execution, and cost-effective solutions. By embracing the benefits of ISO consultants, organisations position themselves for long-term success in an ever-changing business environment.

In the ever-evolving landscape of business, organisations are constantly seeking ways to enhance their operations, streamline processes, and ultimately boost efficiency and productivity. One powerful tool that has proven instrumental in achieving these goals is the implementation of International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) standards. These globally recognised benchmarks provide a framework for organisations to establish and maintain best practices, ensuring a commitment to quality, efficiency, and continual improvement.

1. Consistency and Standardisation: The Cornerstone of Effciency

ISO standards serve as a roadmap for organisations to standardise their processes. By establishing consistent methodologies, procedures, and protocols, organisations can minimise variations and errors, creating a reliable foundation for efficiency. This standardisation not only facilitates clearer communication within the organisation but also enhances collaboration and coordination among different departments.

2. Improved Decision-Making through Data-Driven Insights

ISO standards often require organisations to implement robust data management systems. This emphasis on data collection and analysis enables organisations to make informed decisions based on real-time information. As a result, leaders can identify areas for improvement, allocate resources more effectively, and make strategic decisions that positively impact overall productivity.

 3. Enhanced Customer Satisfaction: A Product of Quality Standards

ISO standards, particularly those focused on quality management, emphasise meeting and exceeding customer expectations. By implementing these standards, organisations prioritise customer satisfaction through consistent product or service quality. Satisfied customers are more likely to be loyal, leading to increased repeat business and positive word-of-mouth recommendations – factors that contribute significantly to organisational success.

4. Risk Mitigation: A Proactive Approach to Productivity

ISO standards encourage organisations to identify and manage risks systematically. Through risk assessments and preventive measures, companies can proactively address potential challenges before they escalate, minimising disruptions to operations. This proactive approach not only safeguards the organisation but also ensures a more resilient and adaptable business environment, ultimately enhancing productivity.

5. Employee Engagement and Empowerment

ISO standards promote a culture of accountability, responsibility, and continuous improvement among employees. When staff members are actively involved in the development and implementation of ISO-compliant processes, they gain a sense of ownership and pride in their work. This engagement fosters a positive workplace culture, where employees are motivated to contribute their best efforts, leading to increased productivity across the organisation.

6. Market Access and Global Competitiveness

Adopting ISO standards not only demonstrates a commitment to quality and efficiency but also opens doors to global markets. Many international clients and partners prioritise working with organisations that adhere to recognised standards, giving ISO-certified companies a competitive edge. This increased market access can lead to new business opportunities, partnerships, and collaborations, further contributing to the organisation’s overall productivity.

Conclusion:

In the fast-paced world of business, organisations must continually seek ways to optimise their operations. ISO standards provide a proven framework for achieving this optimisation, offering a roadmap to consistency, data-driven decision-making, enhanced customer satisfaction, risk mitigation, employee empowerment, and global competitiveness. By embracing these standards, organisations position themselves not only as industry leaders but as entities committed to excellence and continual improvement, laying the groundwork for sustained efficiency and productivity.

 

 

In today’s globalised world, businesses strive to ensure the quality of their products and services while maintaining efficiency and safety. One tool that has gained significant prominence in this pursuit is the International Organisation for Standardisation, or ISO.

ISO standards have become synonymous with quality, consistency, and best practices. But are ISO standards mandatory, and what are the benefits of implementing them? Let’s explore these questions in detail.

Part 1: Are ISO Standards Mandatory?

ISO standards are not mandatory by law, but they are widely recognised and often considered essential in various industries. Whether to adopt ISO standards depends on several factors:

1. Industry Requirements: Some industries, such as aerospace, healthcare, and automotive, have regulatory bodies that require adherence to specific ISO standards as a condition for operation. In such cases, compliance with ISO standards is mandatory.
2. Customer Demands: Many customers prefer to work with suppliers who are ISO certified because it can signify higher quality, reduced risks, and better consistency. Meeting customer demands often drives companies to seek ISO certification.
3. Competitive Advantage: Implementing ISO standards can provide a competitive edge by demonstrating a commitment to quality and efficiency. In highly competitive markets, this can be a deciding factor for customers.
4. Risk Mitigation: ISO standards can help mitigate risks by establishing standardised processes and procedures, reducing errors, and improving overall operational efficiency.
5. Internal Improvement: Even when not mandatory, ISO standards offer organisations a framework for continuous improvement, which can lead to cost savings, reduced waste, and enhanced customer satisfaction.

Part 2: Benefits of Implementing ISO Standards

While ISO standards may not be legally required in all cases, there are numerous benefits associated with their adoption:

1. Improved Quality: ISO standards are designed to ensure product and service quality. Implementing these standards can result in fewer defects, better customer satisfaction, and a stronger brand reputation.
2. Enhanced Efficiency: ISO standards promote streamlined processes, reducing waste and improving resource allocation. This can lead to cost savings and increased profitability.
3. International Recognition: ISO standards are recognised globally, making it easier to do business across borders. They provide a common language for quality and safety expectations.
4. Risk Reduction: ISO standards help identify and manage risks, which can prevent costly errors and accidents. This is particularly important in industries where safety is paramount.
5. Employee Engagement: ISO standards often involve employees in process improvement and quality management. This can boost morale, job satisfaction, and overall productivity.
6. Sustainability: ISO standards, such as ISO 14001 (Environmental Management), can help organisations minimise their environmental impact, meet regulatory requirements, and demonstrate a commitment to sustainability.
7. Customer Trust: ISO certification can instil trust in customers, as it shows a dedication to meeting their needs and expectations. This can lead to increased customer loyalty and repeat business.
8. Legal and Regulatory Compliance: ISO standards can help organisations align with legal and regulatory requirements, reducing the risk of fines and legal issues.

Conclusion

In summary, ISO standards are not mandatory by law in most cases, but they offer a wide range of benefits that make them highly desirable for businesses. These benefits include improved quality, increased efficiency, risk reduction, and enhanced customer trust.

Whether you choose to pursue ISO certification should depend on your industry, customer demands, competitive landscape, and your commitment to delivering high-quality products and services.

Ultimately, ISO standards are a valuable tool for achieving excellence in various aspects of your business.

A Comprehensive Guide from EmmersonWills ISO Consultants

In today’s world where environmental concerns are at the forefront of global discussions, businesses are under increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices. In response, many organisations are turning to ISO 14001, an internationally recognised standard for Environmental Management Systems (EMS).

In this month’s blog, we delve into the significance of ISO 14001 and explore how EmmersonWills ISO Consultants can help your business adopt and implement this framework for a greener future, which can also be finically advantageous.

Understanding ISO 14001: The foundation of environmental responsibility

ISO 14001 is developed by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO). Its primary aim is to provide organisations of all sizes and industries with a structured approach to managing their environmental responsibilities. This standard offers a systematic framework that helps businesses identify and address environmental risks and opportunities, set targets for improvement, and demonstrate their commitment to sustainability.

Guiding businesses towards compliance

EmmersonWills collaborates closely with businesses to ensure they understand the principles of ISO 14001 and how they can be integrated with the most simplistic approach into their existing operations.

Implementing ISO 14001

1. Environmental policy

The cornerstone of ISO 14001 is the creation of a clear and comprehensive environmental policy. This policy outlines the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability, setting the tone for the entire EMS.

2. Planning

Here, the organisation identifies its environmental aspects, evaluates their impact, and establishes objectives and targets to mitigate negative effects. An ISO consultant helps and directs in prioritising these objectives and defining strategies to achieve them.

3. Implementation and operation

This phase involves defining roles & responsibilities and establishing effective communication channels. An ISO consultant ensures that the EMS integrates seamlessly into the organisation’s daily operations.

4. Checking and corrective action

Regular monitoring, measurement, and evaluation of the EMS’s performance are crucial. Any deviations from the established objectives are addressed through corrective actions, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

5. Management review

Senior management’s commitment is essential for the success of ISO 14001 implementation. EmmersonWills facilitate management reviews to ensure that the EMS remains effective, efficient, and aligned with the company’s goals.

Giving your business a sustainable edge

The benefits of ISO 14001 are far-reaching and contribute significantly to an organisation’s sustainable growth.

• Enhanced environmental performance

By systematically identifying and addressing environmental impacts, businesses reduce waste, conserve resources, and minimise their ecological footprint.

• Regulatory compliance

Adhering to ISO 14001 helps organisations stay updated with evolving environmental regulations, avoiding legal issues and associated costs.

• Improved reputation, and sales

Consumers and stakeholders are increasingly favouring environmentally responsible businesses. ISO 14001 certification enhances a company’s reputation, leading to increased trust, loyalty, and even sales.

• Cost savings

Sustainable practices often lead to reduced energy consumption, waste generation, operation inefficiencies, and wasteful purchasing practices. This translates to substantial cost savings over time.

• Employee engagement

ISO 14001 fosters a culture of environmental awareness and responsibility among employees, boosting morale and productivity. Furthermore, said awareness is transferable often environmental improvements are applied in employee’s homes and personal lives.

How an ISO Consultant makes a difference

While the benefits of ISO 14001 are undeniable, the journey towards certification can be complex. The role of EmmersonWills extends beyond technical guidance. We offer businesses invaluable insights into overcoming common challenges such as:

• Complex documentation

It is perceived that ISO demands extensive documentation. This is not the case. EmmersonWills create simple systems that meet the standard’s requirements while remaining practical for the organisation.

• Lack of resources

Many organisations worry about the financial and time investment required for ISO 14001 compliance. EmmersonWills make sure there is no waste in the system, then help businesses prioritise actions and allocate resources efficiently.

• Resistance to change

Implementing new processes can be met with resistance. EmmersonWills works with teams to communicate the rationale behind ISO 14001 and how it aligns with the company’s long-term goals.

The future of sustainable business practices

At EmmersonWills we believe that ISO 14001 is not just a certification, it’s a commitment to a better future. With the global emphasis on environmental responsibility, ISO 14001 empowers businesses to lead by example. Organisations that adopt this standard not only contribute to a healthier planet but also position themselves as industry leaders, attracting conscientious consumers and partners.

And in the years to come, we foresee ISO 14001 playing an even more significant role as regulations tighten and environmental concerns deepen. By embracing the principles of ISO 14001 today, businesses can proactively address challenges, seize opportunities, and create a sustainable legacy for generations to come.

Paving the way for a greener tomorrow

By joining hands with an ISO consultant and embracing ISO 14001, your business can forge a path towards success that benefits not only your bottom line but also the planet we call home.

Whether you’re a small start-up or a multinational corporation, consider partnering with an ISO consultant to embark on this journey towards a greener, more sustainable future.

Ready to take the next step towards ISO 14001? Drop your details and a brief message into our contact form and we’ll be in touch.

 

In today’s competitive business world, small businesses face numerous challenges when it comes to gaining credibility and standing out from the crowd. An effective way to overcome these hurdles is by obtaining ISO certification.  The International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) provides a globally recognised framework that enables businesses to improve their processes, enhance customer satisfaction, and demonstrate their commitment to excellence.

In this month’s blog, we’re exploring the significance of ISO for small businesses and how it brings growth and success to your company.

Boost your credibility

One of the biggest challenges for small businesses is building trust and credibility among customers and suppliers. ISO certification serves as an independent validation that a company adheres to internationally recognised standards and best practices. It shows a commitment to quality, reliability, and continuous improvement. And potential clients and partners are more likely to engage with ISO-certified businesses due to the assurance of consistent service or product quality.

Raise customer loyalty

Customer confidence and satisfaction are the key to business success. ISO certification helps small businesses prioritise customer-centric approaches by setting clear quality objectives and implementing processes to meet or exceed customer expectations. By consistently delivering high-quality products or services, businesses can improve customer satisfaction and foster long-term relationships. ISO certification also provides a structured framework for handling customer feedback, complaints, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Open up new market opportunities

Many larger organisations and government agencies require their suppliers and partners to have ISO certification. By obtaining ISO certification, your small business can access new market opportunities, expand its customer base, and compete on a level playing field with larger competitors. In a nutshell, the fact that you’re ISO certified gives you a competitive advantage, as it demonstrates your ability to meet stringent quality standards. It also helps your business to enter new territories with confidence.

Streamline your internal processes

ISO certification requires small businesses to develop and implement effective processes and systems. Through the certification process, companies undergo a comprehensive evaluation of their existing practices, identifying areas for improvement and establishing efficient workflows. By improving operations and reducing errors, businesses can enhance productivity, minimise waste, and optimise their resources. These improvements lead to cost savings and increased profitability in the long run.

Strengthen supplier relationships

ISO certification can improve relationships with suppliers and business partners. It shows that a small business has a structured approach to quality management, which can provide assurance to suppliers regarding product or service consistency. This can lead to improved collaboration, better supply chain management, and mutually beneficial partnerships.

Continuous improvement

ISO certification promotes a culture of continuous improvement within a business. It encourages small companies to regularly review their processes, identify areas for improvement, and implement corrective actions. This focus on continuous improvement can lead to increased efficiency, innovation, and competitiveness.

Comply with regulations

Small businesses often find it tricky to navigate regulations and legal requirements. Thankfully, ISO standards are often aligned with regulatory requirements in various industries, and by achieving ISO certification, your small business can demonstrate compliance with relevant laws and regulations, reducing the risk of penalties, fines, and legal issues. By adopting ISO standards, your business can also stay updated with changing regulations, mitigate risks, and demonstrate a commitment to meeting legal obligations.

In today’s rapidly changing business landscape, organisations need to ensure that they are constantly adapting to stay competitive and meet the needs of their customers. One way to achieve this is through the implementation of ISO management systems.

ISO, or the International Organisation for Standardisation, is an independent, non-governmental international organisation that develops and publishes standards for various industries. These standards provide a framework for organisations to develop and implement management systems that meet internationally recognised requirements for quality, environmental, occupational health and safety, and information security management.

ISO management systems are designed to help businesses achieve their goals by providing a structured approach to managing processes, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing best practices. They provide a framework for organisations to consistently meet customer needs, comply with regulatory requirements, and improve overall performance.

 Know your ISO

There are several different ISO management systems, each with its own focus and set of requirements. Some of the most common ISO management systems include:

• ISO 9001: Quality Management System – This standard outlines requirements for organisations to ensure they consistently meet customer requirements and enhance customer satisfaction through the effective application of a quality management system.
• ISO 14001: Environmental Management System – This standard provides a framework for organisations to manage their environmental impact by identifying and controlling their environmental aspects, reducing waste and pollution, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.
• ISO 45001: Occupational Health and Safety Management System – This standard provides a framework for organisations to manage their occupational health and safety risks and promote a safe and healthy working environment for employees.
• ISO 27001: Information Security Management System – This standard provides a framework for organisations to manage and protect their sensitive information by identifying risks, implementing security controls, and continuously monitoring and improving their information security management system.

The tremendous benefits of ISO management systems

Implementing an ISO management system can bring multiple benefits to businesses. These include:

• Increased efficiency and effectiveness – ISO management systems help organisations to identify and eliminate inefficiencies in their processes and procedures, resulting in improved productivity and profitability.
• Improved customer satisfaction – ISO management systems are designed to ensure that organisations consistently meet customer needs and requirements, leading to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.
• Enhanced reputation – Achieving certification to an ISO standard demonstrates to customers, suppliers, and stakeholders that an organisation is committed to quality, environmental, health and safety, or information security management, which can enhance its reputation.
• Better risk management – ISO management systems provide a structured approach to risk management, helping organisations to identify and mitigate risks and opportunities, reducing the likelihood of incidents and improving their ability to respond to them.
• Increased competitiveness – Organisations that implement ISO management systems can gain a competitive advantage by demonstrating their commitment to quality, environmental, health and safety, or information security management, which can help them to win new business and retain existing customers.

So, in a nutshell, ISO management systems provide a framework for organisations to consistently meet customer needs, comply with regulatory requirements, and improve overall performance. By implementing an ISO management system, businesses can improve efficiency and effectiveness, enhance customer satisfaction, improve their reputation, better manage risks, and gain a competitive advantage.

If your business is ready to reap the rewards of a flawlessly designed ISO management system, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected] or by phone on 0800 433 2207.  Our expert ISO Consultants are here to help supercharge your business.

 

EmmersonWills explains why an investment in ISO Consultancy is the path to strategic business success

We sometimes find that the notion of an ISO Consultant can cause confusion, so in this month’s blog we’re shining the spotlight on the profession of ISO Consultancy and clarifying the extraordinary benefits of bringing an ISO Consultant on board.

So, exactly what is an ISO Consultant?

An ISO Consultant is an experienced and qualified professional in the field of ISO Standards. ISO; standing for International Organisation for Standardisation – a body created to bring standardisation across different industries, and to continually improve output in the areas of Quality, Environmental, and Health and Safety.

As an expert in ISO consulting, ISO implementation, and ISO certification, an ISO Consultant uses their extensive training and experience to design and install bespoke, management systems that not only align perfectly with your business but also satisfy the ISO standards.

Acting as an extension to your team, an ISO Consultant provides support throughout every stage of the certification process and beyond, working to help your business achieve compliance quickly and advising you on matters beneficial to the ultimate success of your organisation.

A supportive approach

With a fresh pair of eyes, a good ISO Consultant will observe your business and its existing processes – helping you choose an ISO standard most advantageous to you and suggesting new ways of working or the creation of an intelligent management system.

Using their extensive knowledge, your ISO Consultant will write a tailor-made management system that holds consistency, risk awareness, and continual improvement at its core – working with you as a partner every step of the way to keep your business objectives in focus. You can expect to see a sharp improvement in the following areas:

• Profitability
• Productivity / efficiency
• Sustainability
• Quality

A smart investment

The cost of a good ISO Consultant can in fact be cheaper than DIY implementation! It can be false economy to burden employees with an ISO workload on top of their other responsibilities, and a lack of ISO experience can often lead to additional time wasted on running inefficient systems. Not to mention the pressure of navigating ISO standards alone and having to keep up with upcoming changes to ISO standards!

It’s for these reasons that EmmersonWills encourages businesses to seek a professional ISO Consultant who will eliminate hassle and bring real value, delivering a solid return on your investment.

Increased client trust = more contracts

Having ISO certification can make all the difference when it comes to client confidence, boosting your industry credibility and showing that your product or service demonstrates the highest possible standards.

In fact, the ability to display the ISO logo can even win you more business, as so many clients now insist that suppliers hold ISO certification.

The wonders of a robust management system

At EmmersonWills we genuinely believe in making the standard work for your business, instead of your business working to the standard!

There’s nothing worse than an overly complicated and impractical system. Excessive form-filling and administrative workload should not be necessary!

We appreciate the powers of an expertly designed, forward-thinking management system that:

• Works seamlessly
• Provides structure
• Gives greater employee confidence
• Encourages growth
• Increases profits
• Future proofs your business

EmmersonWills – your expert ISO Consultant

Experienced in helping businesses of all sizes with their ISO certification, Matt Jones of EmmersonWills is a CQI / IRCA trained auditor of UKAS-certified ISO quality management systems.

Having worked on both sides of the audit table, Matt has gained invaluable experience on a diverse range of management systems – and EmmersonWills is founded on this expertise.

Underpinned by an ethos of championing business success, EmmersonWills provides continual help and support, building management systems that work efficiently and add vast amounts of value.

For a free, no-obligation appointment, contact ISO Consultant EmmersonWills via our contact form or call us on 0800 433 2207. Let’s safeguard the future of your business.

 

 

 

ISO quality can be a tricky subject to get your head around and clients often fall into two camps – those who fully understand the powerful benefits of adhering to ISO 9001 and those who initially feel obligated to implement ISO.

EmmersonWills MD, Matt Jones, has found the following story has greatly helped prospects in the latter group to understand the point of ISO quality and why a business may be asked for it. Not only has this story captured their attention, but it’s also given them an appreciation of the immense value that ISO quality brings to an organisation.

How it all began

Some years ago, Matt was auditing the quality system of his friend and fellow consultant, Nick Edmunds, when he noticed how well Nick had summarised ISO in the following few paragraphs –

Quality management systems originally came out of factories making weapons and parts during the second world war. Apparently, quite often parts would not fit together correctly or fail to operate. So, in order to try and address these issues the concept of strictly controlling each stage of the manufacturing process was conceived.

The military continues to use its own versions of quality management systems (defence standards) to this day. And in industry, big companies would quite often have their own versions.

For example, the Ford Motor Company has its own A1 standard. However, during the late 1970’s Governments decided to try and create a universal quality management system standard. Our version was called BS 5750 and it was first published in 1979. Originally the standard was published in three parts and was aimed mainly at manufacturing or stockist-type businesses. There were revisions to the standard in 1987 and in 1994 it was reissued as ISO 9001. Again, there were changes in 2000, 2008, and the current version is dated 2015.

Over the years the main emphasis has changed from compliance (say what you do and do what you say) to continual improvement. The standard is now based on the plan, do, check, act cycle. Consequently, the requirements for documented procedures have been reduced over time.

This excerpt explains the history of ISO quality and gives a clear picture of the evolution of ISO 9001 which started in the 1950’s when US and UK Government departments established standards for military procurement.

With time comes progress

Since those early days when the defence industry first adopted quality management standards, the recognition of ISO quality has snowballed as companies seek to demonstrate quality management to their customers.

The 70’s saw the emergence of a basic quality management system, and as the world began trading on an international scale in the 1980’s, countries and industries needed to agree on quality assurance standards. At this point, ISO 9000 was first released – to set a common standard for companies to work to worldwide. This also gave businesses the option to gain certification against the standard, which gave them a strong advantage when working with overseas suppliers.

Whilst a huge leap forward, ISO 9000 in the 80’s had a very rigid structure and focused on conforming to procedures. But as time went on, ISO quality went through various stages of progression, becoming ISO 9001 in 1994, and by the year 2000, there were even bigger changes! Heavy manuals became a thing of the past and companies created quality management systems that suited their business, focused on positive growth, and maintained high-quality standards.

The current version of ISO 9001 was established in 2015 and has gained international recognition as the quality standard to have. Over 1 million organisations across the globe have achieved ISO 9001 certification and it is one of the world’s most popular management tools ever created.

Why ISO 9001 brings business success

• ISO 9001 focuses on customer satisfaction and gives the consumer absolute confidence that a product is safe and reliable. This in turn promotes customer trust and loyalty – helping a business grow.
• A system of feedback and action shows the customer that a company is continuously improving in both its products/services and on the management side.
• ISO 9001 improves quality, decreases waste, and ensures seamless production by making the best possible use of resources.
• ISO 9001 opens up international trade opportunities and helps a company to win more tenders, as many organisations insist that suppliers have ISO 9001 certification.
• ISO 9001 removes the requirement for lengthy questionnaire completion in work bids.
• With ISO 9001, a company can provide products or services of a consistently high standard
• ISO quality concentrates on productivity and efficiency which drives down business costs.
• ISO 9001 gives a business a marketing advantage as the ISO 9001 certification logo is seen as a mark of quality.

A solid business foundation

We hope this blog has made it easy to see the extensive benefits of ISO 9001 and how it strengthens companies of all sizes, in a vast cross-section of industries.

 Secure the future of your business and speak to industry professional EmmersonWills about your next ISO 9001 Quality Management System.

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