What Is ISO?

ISO is the name adopted by the International Organization for Standardization. This entity is an independent, non-governmental, international organization that develops standards to ensure the quality, safety, and efficiency of products, services, and systems. Due to the fact that this organization would have had different acronyms (IOS in English, OIN in French, etc…) the founders decided to give it the short form ISO. The origin of the word ISO is from the Greek “isos” which means “equal”; often wrongly thought to be an abbreviation for International Standards Organization.

Certification Body

ISO does not issue certification and is not involved in the process of certification. ISO only role is to develop International Standards. An independent certification body (CB), also known as registrar, is the entity that will grant the certification to organizations seeking to get certified to an ISO standard.

ISO Standards

The ISO standard are the accumulated expertise and wisdom from a wide range of subject matter experts. These experts come from many industries, (manufacturing, sale, customers, trade associations, users, regulator, etc..). Globally recognized standards enable organizations to compete in the global economy. ISO organization publishes standards for Health, Safety, Security, and quality, in both products and services in international trade. ISO standards cover many areas and industries. They could be related to manufacturing, process management, service delivery or supplying materials.

ISO Certification

ISO certification is a way of attesting that an organization has achieved to meet all the requirements that a particular ISO standard dictate.

ISO Certifications are available for management systems, manufacturing processes, service delivery.

ISO certification confirms that an organization has put in place a management system compliant with the ISO standard hence ensuring consistency and continuous improvement of product or services.

Importance of being ISO certified

Adapting and complying to International Standards gives to consumers enough confidence that the products are safe, reliable and of good quality. It also provide the same with the services an organization offers to their customers. Government and regulators, also, use such standards to develop and improve regulations. Being ISO certified enables companies to operate worldwide, allowing them to increase sales and revenue. ISO certified companies use this label to improve their image by showing to the global market that they operate in conformity with international standards. Many partners and customers consider this as a sign that the companies offer excellent products and services.

Certification benefits for an Organization

Reliability

Improved performances

Better quality

Increased revenue

Risk reduction

Sustainability

Innovation