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ISO 9001:2015 Timeline

Getting ISO 9001 certification your company is a great way to demonstrate your commitment to quality management.

 

The time it to achieve certification can vary depending on the size and complexity of your organisation, but typically takes several months to a year. The process involves several steps, including developing a quality management system, conducting internal audits, and undergoing an external audit by a certification body.

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Our team can guide you through the process and ensure a successful outcome.

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Here we explain a detailed timeline for implementing ISO 9001 in a small to medium size company. This timeline covers a period of approximately 10-12 months, divided into six main phases.

 

Summary of the key points:

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  1. The timeline is structured in phases, each with specific milestones.

  2. It starts with a preparation and planning phase, which includes the initial gap analysis.

  3. The documentation and process development phase follows, where the quality management system is designed.

  4. Implementation and training come next, ensuring all staff are on board with the new system.

  5. Internal audits and management reviews are conducted to test the system.

  6. The certification audit process is the final formal phase before certification.

  7. Continuous improvement is emphasized as an ongoing phase after certification.

 

 

This timeline provides a structured approach to ISO 9001 implementation, but it's important to note that it can be adjusted based on the specific needs and current state of the company. Some companies might move faster or slower depending on their resources and existing quality management practices.

  Phase 1: Preparation and Planning (1-2 months)
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- Week 1-2: Initial meeting and project kick off

- Week 3-4: Gap analysis and current state assessment

- Week 5-6: Develop implementation plan and resource allocation

- Week 7-8: Management review and approval of implementation plan

 

  Phase 2: Documentation and Process Development (2-3 months)
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- Week 9-10: Develop quality policy and objectives

- Week 11-14: Create/update required documentation (quality manual, procedures)

- Week 15-16: Develop process maps and work instructions

- Week 17-18: Implement document control system

 

  Phase 3: Implementation and Training (2-3 months)
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- Week 19-20: Conduct awareness training for all staff

- Week 21-24: Implement new processes and procedures

- Week 25-26: Conduct internal auditor training

- Week 27-28: Perform trial run of new system

 

  Phase 4: Internal Audit and Management Review (1 month)
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- Week 29-30: Conduct internal audit

- Week 31: Management review of audit results

- Week 32: Corrective actions and system adjustments

 

 

 

  Phase 5: Certification Audit (1-2 months)
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- Week 33-34: Pre-assessment audit (optional)

- Week 35-36: Address any findings from pre-assessment

- Week 37-38: Stage 1 certification audit

- Week 39-40: Address any non-conformities

- Week 41-42: Stage 2 certification audit

- Week 43-44: Receive ISO 9001 certification (if successful)

 

  Phase 6: Continuous Improvement (Ongoing)
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- Conduct regular internal audits

- Perform annual management reviews

- Implement corrective and preventive actions

- Continuous monitoring and improvement of processes

 

Total estimated timeline: 10-12 months

 

Note: This timeline is flexible and can be adjusted based on the company's size, complexity, and readiness level.

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