If you’re new to the world of certification, the terminology used can be a bit confusing. Let’s take ISO 9001 as an example to clarify some of the terms commonly used:

ISO 9001: ISO 9001 is an international standard that defines the requirements for a Quality Management System (QMS). It outlines what an organization needs to do to ensure they provide products or services that meet customer requirements and enhance customer satisfaction.

Management System: To meet the requirements of ISO 9001, an organization needs to establish a systematic approach to managing quality. This systematic approach is known as a Management System. It includes processes, policies, and procedures that guide the organization in delivering consistent quality.

Audit: An audit is a thorough examination and assessment of an organization’s Management System to ensure it complies with the ISO 9001 requirements. Audits are usually conducted by an independent third-party certification body like Integrated Certification Services.

ISO 9001 Certificate: Following a successful audit, an organization is awarded an ISO 9001 certificate, indicating that their Quality Management System has been audited and found to meet the ISO 9001 requirements.

ISO 9001 Registration/Certification: With the ISO 9001 certificate, an organization can claim ISO 9001 registration or certification. This means they have achieved compliance with ISO 9001 and have been awarded the certificate by the certification body like Integrated Certification Services.

ISO 9001 Accreditation: It’s important to note that organizations cannot claim ISO 9001 accreditation. Accreditation is the process of assessing and recognizing the competence of certification bodies. Integrated Certification Services, for example, holds accreditation from IAF (International Accreditation Forum), demonstrating our capability to conduct ISO 9001 audits effectively.

For more detailed information or if you have any questions about the terminology and phrases used in the certification sphere, feel free to contact us at Integrated Certification Services. We are here to help you navigate the world of certification and provide you with a free quotation for your ISO 9001 certification needs.