At Assent Risk Management we strongly believe in the power of international standards to make the world a better place.
But after 20 years in business we are not naive to the fact that, in many cases, the primary motive for implementing and certifying to ISO standards is because organisations HAVE TO. Usually to win a tender or satisfy a client.
In that sense, ISO Certification can have many traits of a distress purchase. Clients need to comply quickly, may not have the internal resources available and may not “full buy-in” to the project- at first.
Nonetheless, to achieve ISO Certification with an accredited body, organisations must demonstrate compliance, and therefore will be getting many of the benefits that standards can bring.
Fast ISO Certification
There is no shortcut to compliance. Any misleading policies or statements will soon be found out at the stage 2 audit when the auditor samples objective evidence for their report.
However, using an experienced and proven ISO Consultant such as Assent can help you…
Gap analysis – Utilising Existing Processes
A sensible first step in an implementation project is a gap analysis, even if the time frame is tight.
A gap analysis allows our consultant to get to know your company’s unique needs. We will also be able to identify areas where you are already complying with requirements, reducing the need for new processes that your staff need to get used to.
Book Certification Early
While it may seem like a risk, engaging a certification body early has several benefits.
It puts milestones into the project which, if planned properly with our consultant, helps to maintain momentum.
It also allows you to communicate to clients where you are in the journey and get a letter of intent from the certification showing your commitment to the process.
Certification Auditor availability can vary so booking early ensures the certification body can meet your deadline.
Project Management Tool
Utilising a project management tool and other compliance software allows the implementation work to continue even outside the consultancy sessions.
Assent offers access to our project management tool and resources at no additional cost, as part of a consultancy engagement. Contact us for more information.
Support During Certification and Beyond
Assent consultants can support you during the certification audits helping to interpret what auditors may be looking for and identify any weaknesses that can be resolved for future audits.
While a Certificate may have been the initial goal, this starts a three-year cycle during which organisations need to maintain compliance. Assent can help throughout the year by providing internal audits, chair forum meetings and any other support you may need.
Conclusion
Assent has everything you need to quickly achieve ISO Certification while realising the benefits standards can bring.
Contact our ISO consultants to see how we can help you.
