What does the organization gain from ISO certification?
ISO certification improves the organization’s image and increases its opportunities to win new projects, clients, public contracts and tenders, as well as to justify higher prices for its products and services.
Through ISO certification, organizations:
- can demonstrate that they consistently deliver a product that meets customer requirements, exactly at the agreed time and within the specified deadline;
- bring order to their business processes — from receiving the order to performing and delivering the service;
- have better traceability and predictability of potential incidents and risks;
- define control measures for their activities and processes.
If you would like to start with the basics — what ISO is and how a standard differs from a certificate — begin with the article What is ISO certification.
How do ISO standards help with risks and incidents?
ISO management system standards require the organization to assess risks and respond to problems systematically rather than haphazardly.
- 1Risk identification
Events that could prevent the organization from achieving its objectives are identified.
- 2Risk analysis
Likelihood and consequences are assessed, and the possible scenarios are considered.
- 3Risk evaluation
It is checked whether the consequences have been assessed correctly and which risks require action.
- 4Control measures
Measures are defined to reduce the risk in activities and processes.
- 5Corrective actions
When an incident occurs, its root cause is identified and action is taken to prevent it from recurring.
Emergencies and other extraordinary and unforeseen situations require immediate action. The management system ensures that, afterwards, the cause is analysed and eliminated.
How can you evaluate the decision with a SWOT analysis?
A SWOT analysis is a simple tool that an organization uses to assess its internal strengths and weaknesses and its external opportunities and threats. It is used within the management system itself, but it is also useful when you are deciding whether to get certified.
| Element | What is identified | Examples for certification |
|---|---|---|
| S — Strengths | The key competencies the organization focuses on | Well-organized processes, clear responsibilities, client trust |
| W — Weaknesses | The weaknesses identified through risk assessment | Management time, resources and documentation upkeep are required |
| O — Opportunities | Ways of performing processes better | Public contracts, new clients, supply chains, foreign partners |
| T — Threats | The hazards against which risk is planned for and reduced | Losing clients or tenders for lack of a certificate; a certificate that is not maintained in practice |
When is ISO certification worth it?
Certification pays for itself fastest when there is a specific external reason or an internal need for order.
It is worth it when
- clients or contracting authorities require a certificate
- you take part, or want to take part, in public procurement
- the company is growing and its processes depend too heavily on individual people
- you have recurring errors, complaints or delays
It is not suitable when
- the only aim is a “piece of paper on the wall”
- management is not ready to get involved
- the system will not be maintained after the audit
An ISO certificate is an international visa and a better mechanism for controlling business processes.
What are the next steps?
- CostsThe price depends on the standard, the number of employees and the sites — see How much does ISO certification cost.
- Choosing a bodyHow to assess a certification body — in the article How to choose a certification body.
- More standardsIf you need several standards, consider an integrated management system.
- QuoteSend an enquiry — we reply within two hours during business hours.
Questions about the decision to get ISO certified
What is the main benefit of ISO certification?
The certificate proves to clients and contracting authorities that your processes are well organized and controlled, and it opens access to tenders and new clients.
What is a SWOT analysis?
A tool for assessing the organization’s strengths and weaknesses (internal factors) and its opportunities and threats (external factors).
Is ISO certification mandatory?
No, it is voluntary. However, it is often a condition in public procurement and in contracts with larger clients.
How long is the certificate valid?
Three years, with surveillance audits in the second and third years and recertification before it expires.