ISO 9001:2015: the view from the conformity assessment community

Abstract

This research evaluates the perceptions from the conformity assessment community regarding the auditability of ISO 9001:2015 and the perception of its ease of use by the audited organisations. The study is supported on a survey promoted by the Strategic, Planning and Operations Task Group (SPOTG) of Subcommittee 2 of ISO TC 176 (TC 176/SC2) aiming at collect insights on using the standard and identify any need for future revisions. As an overall conclusion, in the view of certification bodies' auditors, programme managers and certification decision-makers, ISO 9001:2015 attained its main objectives. Nevertheless, it is suggested in the forthcoming ISO 9001 review cycle to adopt a more simplified language and to improve the ease of understanding and consistency of interpretations of the ISO 9001:2015 requirements. Additionally, suggestions for making clauses (e.g. 4.1. Understanding the organisation and its context, 6.1 Actions to address risks and opportunities, 7.1.6 Organisational Knowledge, and 4.2 Understanding the needs and expectations of interested parties) easier to apply and improving its auditability have also been identified.