What is ISO 9001 and the requirements for certification?

ISO 9001 is an international standard for quality management systems, with guidelines for managing, monitoring and improving quality within companies and organizations. The purpose of the standard is to establish a common structure and a uniform approach for employees, subcontractors and management.

Purpose and basic principles

The purpose of ISO 9001 is to provide a clear framework for how a management system should be designed - with a focus on quality and development. The standard provides the basis for a structured way of working in all parts of the organization.

ISO 9001 contains several requirements based on seven principles:

1. Customer focus
2. Leadership and management
3. Employee commitment
4. Process orientation
5. Improvement
6. Fact-based decisions
7. Relationship management

Requirements for certification

To be certified to ISO 9001, your company must meet a number of criteria. Here are some examples of key requirements:

• Clear objectives linked to customer requirements and continuously monitored
• Version-controlled document management with the right access for the right people
• Assignment of responsibilities and active leadership from the management team
• Visualized process mapping that shows how work is done
• Risk management and a structured approach to continuous improvement
• Effective case management for tracking deviations, complaints and improvement suggestions
• Regular measurement of results to control and develop operations

Benefits of certification

In many industries, ISO 9001 is a prerequisite for participating in tenders or creating new business relationships. The certificate serves as proof that you work in a structured way with a clear desire to develop.

• Creates confidence among customers, partners and employees
• Facilitates management and follow-up
• Shows that you work with quality - for real
• Engages the entire organization in improvement work
• Gives better control and fewer errors
• Strengthens your brand and competitiveness

All ISO 9001 versions