The new version follows a new, higher level structure to make it easier to use in conjunction with other Management System Standards, with increased importance given to risk.
The new Standard is less prescriptive than its predecessor ISO 9001:2008, focusing instead on performance. This is achieved by combining the process approach with risk-based thinking, and employing the Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle at all levels in the organisation.
- Modified Senior Management principles
- Better aligned to service organisations
- Risk based thinking introduced
- Emphasis on leadership
- Fewer requirements for documented procedures
- More emphasis on process outputs
The revised Standard aligns itself in a common structure, with the same terms and definitions as a number of other revised Management System Standards such as ISO 9014:2015 plus the new ISO 45001 Health & Safety Standard (not yet published). This makes them easier, cheaper and quicker for those companies with Integrated Management Systems
Organisations have a three-year transition period from September 2015 to comply with the new edition of the Standard. After this transition period, those that opt for third party certification will have to seek certification to the new version of the Standard. The ISO 9001:2008, and any certification to it, will be out of date.
Organisations seeking certification for the first time will be required to comply with the new Standard unless already undergoing a verified programme to comply with the 9001:2008 Standard.