What is ISO 9001 and why is it important?

What is ISO 9001?

ISO 9001 is the global and most popular standard for Quality Management Systems. It focuses on helping organizations satisfy their customers’ needs by consistently providing quality products and services. The ISO 9001 is suitable for any organization in any industry, regardless of the size, product, or service it offers.
This article; “What is ISO 9001 and why is it important?” aims to educate you on the importance of implementing an ISO 9001 quality management system in your organization and expose you to the benefits of conducting periodic QMS audits by engaging the service of a skilled QMS Auditor.

Why is ISO 9001 important?

Consistently meet customers’ needs by providing quality products and excellent service
Increase customer loyalty, retention, and acquisition
Minimize waste and unproductivity
Meet the legal requirements of the ISO 9001:2015 QMS Standard
Ensure business continuity and company longevity
Reduce time loss, increase efficiency and profitability
Gain customer trust and referral funnel
Achieve better internal management, teamwork, and performance

Who is an ISO 9001 Lead Auditor and why do companies need them?

An ISO 9001 QMS Lead Auditor is a professional who is skilled in helping organizations meet the requirements of the ISO 9001 standard. The key role of the ISO 9001 Lead Auditor is to conduct periodic audits of the organization against the ISO 9001 and determine compliance or noncompliance with the standard. Whatever the discovery of the lead auditor is, he proceeds to take the organization to a state of total compliance, thereby helping them achieve the above-listed benefits of implementing the ISO 9001 standard.

How to become a certified ISO 9001 Lead Auditor
There are simple steps that an individual must take to become a certified ISO 9001 Lead Auditor. These include:

1. Learn your eligibility requirements
2. Enroll in a training institute that is approved by the CQI IRCA
3. Attend all the classes
4. Take the assessment and final examination and pass
5. Receive your Certificate of Achievement and begin your ISO 9001 audit experience