What is ISO standard in current version?

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is an independent, non-governmental international organization that develops and publishes standards. These standards ensure that products and services are safe, reliable, and of good quality. The ISO standards are recognized worldwide and provide a common reference for companies and organizations to comply with regulations and meet customer expectations.

History of ISO standards

The ISO was founded in 1947 and has its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. Since its establishment, the ISO has developed and published more than 23,000 international standards covering various industries and sectors. These standards range from technology-related fields such as information security and software engineering to management systems like quality management and environmental management.

Structure of ISO standards

ISO standards follow a specific structure to ensure consistency and ease of use. The current version of ISO standards, known as ISO 9001:2015, follows a high-level structure called Annex SL. This structure provides a framework for organizations to integrate multiple management systems into a single, streamlined approach. The Annex SL structure consists of ten clauses covering areas such as scope, normative references, terms and definitions, context of the organization, leadership, planning, support, operation, performance evaluation, and improvement.

Benefits of complying with ISO standards

Complying with ISO standards offers numerous benefits to organizations. Firstly, it enhances credibility and helps build trust among customers, suppliers, and stakeholders. ISO certification can be used as a marketing tool, demonstrating an organization's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Additionally, ISO standards provide a systematic approach to managing processes, leading to improved efficiency and cost savings. Moreover, adhering to ISO standards enables organizations to meet legal and regulatory requirements, leading to better risk management and increased competitiveness in the market.