Publication of ISO 9001:2015

Archive from 2015. Editions, transition dates, figures and lists reflect the original article. For current implementation, check the documents presently in force.

The role of ISO 9001

With more than 1.1 million certificates issued worldwide at the time, ISO 9001 helped organisations demonstrate their ability to provide consistently good-quality products and services. It could also be used to streamline processes and improve efficiency. ISO Acting Secretary-General Kevin McKinley explained that ISO 9001 helps organisations adapt to a changing world, improve customer satisfaction and establish a solid foundation for sustainable growth and success.

Changes in the 2015 edition

The 2015 edition introduced significant changes. Nigel Croft, chair of the ISO technical committee responsible for developing and revising the standard, described the change as an evolution rather than a revolution and said that ISO 9001 was now suited to the 21st century. Earlier editions had been relatively prescriptive, with many requirements for documented procedures and records. The 2000 and 2008 editions focused more on managing processes and less on documentation.

Croft explained that ISO 9001:2015 went further: it was less prescriptive than the previous edition and placed greater emphasis on performance. It combined the process approach with risk-based thinking and applied the Plan–Do–Check–Act (PDCA) cycle at every level of the organisation.

System integration and a changing environment

He also noted that organisations often use several management system standards. ISO 9001:2015 was therefore designed to integrate more easily with other management systems. It also provided a strong foundation for sector-specific quality standards, including automotive, aerospace and pharmaceutical applications, and could be considered by regulators where appropriate.

McKinley concluded that the standard needed to reflect a changing world. Technology was raising customer and business expectations, while lower tariffs and strategic tools such as international standards were reducing trade barriers. Increasingly complex global supply chains required coordinated action. Organisations needed new ways of operating, and quality management standards had to keep pace. He expressed confidence that ISO 9001:2015 would help them do so.

Transition from earlier editions

ISO 9001:2015 replaced earlier editions, with a three-year transition period for certification.

ITVC services presented in 2015

Transition training modules presented in 2015

• Module 1: ISO 9001:2015 awareness, interpretation and transition guidance; duration: two days.
• Module 2: ISO 9001:2015 awareness, interpretation and internal auditing; duration: three days.

Transition consulting activities

• Site review and gap analysis.
• General awareness and standard interpretation training.
• Guidance on revising and updating documentation to meet the new requirements.
• Implementation guidance.
• Internal auditor training and audit practice.
• Guidance on corrective and preventive actions.
• Original estimated timetable: one to two months, depending on system size.