QIC Guru

Business management consulting can offer a variety of assistance on ISO 9001 quality awareness training, system evaluation, documentation writing/review and internal auditor training. One sign of an experienced consultant is someone who actively engages all appropriate levels of personnel in the process. Experience within your marketplace, specific standard knowledge and the right “chemistry” are other considerations. Using a consultant will increase your cost. However, the guidance and experience of the consultant may reduce the time it takes for you to achieve your ISO 9001 certification.

Registrars are not allowed to consult. They cannot advise you on how to solve a problem. They do highlight where problems exist. The strict separation of auditing and consulting is a fundamental ethical requirement of all ISO 9001 Registrars. Selecting the right Registrar for your situation is critical. Cutting corners at this stage could jeopardize your entire quality initiative. You need to find a Registrar that will work with you as a partner, take the time to learn your organization’s needs within the context of your ISO 9001 effort and reflect your passion for quality.