The EN ISO 9001:2015 - AC 2016 is an International Standard that specifies requirements for a quality management system (QMS). It provides a set of guidelines and principles which organizations can follow to ensure that their products or services consistently meet customer requirements and enhance customer satisfaction.
Understanding the Standard
This standard was published in September 2015, replacing the previous version of ISO 9001:2008. The "EN" stands for "European Norm," which refers to the adaptation of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). The "AC" refers to the year of accession, and "2016" indicates the year that this particular edition was adopted.
The EN ISO 9001:2015 - AC 2016 follows a process-oriented approach and places greater emphasis on risk-based thinking and continual improvement. It sets out ten key clauses which form the basis of the QMS:
Scope
Normative references
Terms and definitions
Context of the organization
Leadership
Planning
Support
Operation
Performance evaluation
Improvement
Benefits of Implementing EN ISO 9001:2015 - AC 2016
Implementing the EN ISO 9001:2015 - AC 2016 brings several benefits to organizations. Firstly, it helps in enhancing customer satisfaction by delivering products and services that consistently meet customer requirements. This, in turn, leads to increased customer loyalty and repeat business.
Secondly, the standard promotes a culture of continual improvement within organizations. By identifying and addressing areas of non-conformance, organizations can optimize their processes and increase operational efficiency. This can result in cost savings and improved overall performance.
Furthermore, adherence to EN ISO 9001:2015 - AC 2016 demonstrates an organization's commitment to quality and reliability. It enhances the organization's reputation and provides a competitive advantage in the market. Many customers and stakeholders prefer to work with organizations that have achieved this certification as it assures them of the organization's ability to consistently deliver high-quality products and services.
Conclusion
The EN ISO 9001:2015 - AC 2016 is an internationally recognized standard for quality management systems. Its adoption brings numerous benefits to organizations, including enhanced customer satisfaction, improved operational efficiency, and a competitive advantage in the market. To achieve these benefits, organizations must understand and implement the ten key clauses outlined in the standard. By doing so, they can demonstrate their commitment to quality and continually strive for excellence.