QIC Guru

Why do so many companies shy away from becoming certified to ISO 9001? For one thing, ISO 9001 is steeped with myths and misconceptions. Let’s examine some of these.

1. Perception: My Quality Manual has to plagiarize the ISO 9001 standard: False, if you have referenced the standard in your manual, why would you need to recreate it again? What would be the purpose? The only requirements stated in the new ISO 9001:2008 standard are: a scope which includes any exclusions you may have, the procedures or reference to the procedures for your management system and complete description of the interaction between the various processes that are required to operate your business.
2. Perception: I must have a document (work instruction, flow chart, procedure, etc.) for every process in my company: False, The extent of the documentation that your organization will require depends on the size and complexity of your organization and how well your employees are trained to do their jobs. The only time a procedure is required is when someone cannot do their job without it. If your procedures are collecting dust, get rid of them, they will come back to bite you.
3. Perception: Implementing and maintaining ISO 9001 is expensive: False, a quality system done right is both a money saver and time saver. The use of ISO 9001 software and other tools have made the job of implanting and maintaining a well run quality management system an effortless task.
4. Perception: The ISO 9001 system is a Quality System (belongs in the quality department or is the responsibility of the quality manager), or many organizations feel they need to hire somebody full time to manage the ISO 9001 system (internal audit coordinator, corrective action coordinator, ISO coordinator, etc.): False, the quality management system belongs to everyone in the organization and can be assigned to any individual within the organization. Many companies assign the plant manager or supply chain manager as their management representative. Keep in mind this system belongs to everyone and everyone must participate to make it successful.