ISO Mistakes

The mistakes people make when implementing ISO standards – a helpful guide made for people who are:

  • Thinking about implementing some kind of ISO standard;
  • Wondering why you ever bothered implementing your ISO standard(s) – because it really isn’t helping.
Mistake #1
Attempting to squeeze your business into an ISO standard
Mistake #2
Adopting the language and terminology of the standard where it is not relevant, useful or indeed user friendly
Mistake #3
Adopting only a cursory understanding of the standard
Mistake #4
Not checking to ensure your assessment body is UKAS approved
Mistake #5
Creating separate "diluted" ISO specific management system objectives
Mistake #6
Not properly defining the different types and scopes of documentation
Mistake #7
Failing to properly define the formatting detail for each type of document
Mistake #8
Overcomplicating the system (including compliance requirements that have no real bearing on your operation)
Mistake #9
Taking a solely "minimum effort / tick box" approach
Mistake #10
Letting the certification body assessors dictate the structure & detail of your system
Mistake #11
Developing your systems in a way your people won't use or don't understand
Mistake #12
Not getting top management commitment or appointing a champion with sufficient authority
Mistake #13
Allowing the management system to rest on the shoulders of just one individual
Mistake #14
Not taking time to fully understand the detail of the standard & the intent of each clause
Mistake #15
Allowing your ISO champion to empire build
Mistake #16
Choosing a consultant that doesn't understand your business or that you would find difficult to work with

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