Why you need an ISO 9001 certificate

When does an organization need ISO 9001?

ISO 9001 specifies the requirements for quality management when an organization needs to demonstrate that it operates reliably and wants to improve its performance.

The international standard applies when an organization:

• needs to demonstrate its ability to consistently provide a product that meets customer requirements;
• must meet the requirements of applicable regulations issued by a legislative or other authorized body;
• aims to enhance customer satisfaction;
• wishes to continually improve its business processes.

What the standard contains, the principles it is based on and how it is structured are described in the article ISO 9001 — quality management. Here we focus on the question “why”.

Who may require you to hold an ISO 9001 certificate?

Most often, the certificate is required by external parties who want assurance that their supplier is reliable without checking its processes themselves.

• ClientsLarge companies often include an ISO 9001 certificate in their criteria for selecting and evaluating suppliers.
• Public procurementContracting authorities may require bidders to have a certified quality management system.
• Supply chainsManufacturers and traders require a certificate from their subcontractors to ensure the quality of the final product.
• Foreign partnersThe certificate is recognized internationally and makes it easier to work with partners outside Bulgaria.

ISO 9001 certification is voluntary. However, when it is a condition in a tender or contract, an organization without a certificate simply cannot take part.

What benefits does the certificate bring within the organization?

A functioning quality management system is a prerequisite for the products and services provided to conform to regulatory and customer requirements. The benefits show in day-to-day work:

ISO 9001 brings predictability to the activities involved in creating products and services and serves as a “passport” for the quality of a company’s management.

Why does it matter that the certificate comes from an accredited body?

The certificate carries weight because it is issued by an independent certification body after an audit. When the body is accredited, clients and contracting authorities can rely on the audit having been conducted under internationally recognized rules.

Euro Standard Certification Ltd. is the exclusive representative of CERTIND S.A. in Bulgaria. CERTIND is accredited by RENAR for ISO 9001 certification — more on the Accreditation page.

How should you prepare for certification?

1. 1Implement the system

   Define the processes, responsibilities, quality objectives and the documented information you need.

2. 2Build up a track record

   Let the system run, then carry out an internal audit and a management review.

3. 3Get a quote

   Describe your activity, number of employees and sites.

4. 4Undergo the audit

   The audit has two stages — a review of the documents and readiness, followed by an on-site check.

The certification body does not provide consultancy — this guarantees the impartiality of the audit. If you need help with implementation, you can obtain it separately from an independent consultant. For how certification itself works, see the Certification process page.