Is it possible to get ISO 9001 certification in 90 days?

[Chris Ford]

A startup organization wants to align their processes to ISO 9001 while in its toddler stage. In addition, one of their clients is requiring them to get ISO certification in 3 months. Given this, the management immediately goes through consultant selection process. However, there was a penalty imposed for every day the project is delayed. Alas. none of the consultants did not agree to some kind of pressure related to getting ISO project done in 90 days time even if any management delays would extend the time line. Consultants agree that it can be done in 90 days but I am wondering why they are not willing to stake some risk on it. Is it doable?

I think the answer to this question is really going to come from your certifying body, and whether you've got the evidence to demonstrate that the quality system is effective - according to its assessment standard. It takes months to generate the output requirements of each element of the quality system.

It's difficult to put a time frame on this, though because every company generates records at a different rate. Work with your registrar as early in the process as possible. In your case, you're trying to fast-track the process, so you should discuss this with the registrar as well.

I think to answer your question, yes it's probably possible to find a registrar with requirements you can meet within 90 days of implementation. But, that's going to speak directly to the certifying body's credentials. In other words, 90 days will generally produce very little data - any registrar willing to certify a quality system with almost no supporting data will be a bit questionable in my book.

 

[JaneB]

My advice would be to avoid using any "Consultant". I've found that no matter how much customer satisfaction they claim to have, Consultants have a vested interest.....in themselves. Perhaps some spoil it for all, but I calls 'em like I sees 'em.

Ho hum. I don't recall this topic even being raised, so is it really necessary to seize the opportunity to indulge in some consultant-bashing? (Marc, our host, by the way is a consultant, as are a number of other strong contributors.)

I've come across some absolutely woeful so-called 'quality managers' and 'quality co-ordinators' and 'quality engineers' etc over many years. But I don't feel a need to denigrate the many good people in the profession either.

 

[Randy]

Is 6 months of data stipulated as a requirement?

Contracturally more often than not.

In most cases we ask for at least 6 months of data that can demonstrate or provide evidence of planning, implementation, effectiveness along with a completed audit and management review.

There may of course be case by case varience allowed but that's not the decision of the auditor in the field.

 

[Marc]

Contracturally more often than not.

In most cases we ask for at least 6 months of data that can demonstrate or provide evidence of planning, implementation, effectiveness along with a completed audit and management review.

There may of course be case by case varience allowed but that's not the decision of the auditor in the field.

I know that aspect. I've just never seen a time stipulated in a standard or other document as a requirement. That's what I wanted to verify. I have seen registrars accept 3 to 4 months of data in new, small companies.

 

[brahmaiah]

Wow, 90 days, huh? Ridiculous timetable (in any industry) from whoever sold you that.
My advice would be to avoid using any "Consultant". I've found that no matter how much customer satisfaction they claim to have, Consultants have a vested interest.....in themselves. Perhaps some spoil it for all, but I calls 'em like I sees 'em.
For a much better value...invest in yourself by taking the time to learn ISO9001 and apply what you learn.
There's multitudes of training available for anyone who cares to take the time.
Start with the basics and progress from there. Don't complicate things by using outsiders. Keep it simple.
In the long run, it serves you best. Sure, it takes time, but the return on investment is infinately better.
Best of luck.

Consultants are available is differant denominations and varying competencies like in any other profession.It is grossly unjustified to generalise your opinion on consultants.You must know how to asses a consultant .Otherwise you will be a looser.
I advise my friend not to make such sweeping comments on any profession.

V.J.Brahmaiah

 

[Stijloor]

Wow, 90 days, huh? Ridiculous timetable (in any industry) from whoever sold you that.
My advice would be to avoid using any "Consultant". I've found that no matter how much customer satisfaction they claim to have, Consultants have a vested interest.....in themselves. Perhaps some spoil it for all, but I calls 'em like I sees 'em.
For a much better value...invest in yourself by taking the time to learn ISO9001 and apply what you learn.
There's multitudes of training available for anyone who cares to take the time.
Start with the basics and progress from there. Don't complicate things by using outsiders. Keep it simple.
In the long run, it serves you best. Sure, it takes time, but the return on investment is infinately better.
Best of luck.

My valued Clients would not agree with you.
Some Participants here at The Cove are consultants.
Please refrain from making general statements.

Sincerely,

Stijloor (23 year veteran consultant)

 

[QEC1989]

Like it or not...the fact remains....it's to his (or anyone else's) advantage to rely on themselves, and not an outsider.

 

[AndyN]

Like it or not...the fact remains....it's to his (or anyone else's) advantage to rely on themselves, and not an outsider.

Why would you say such a thing when, clearly, by looking at many of the questions posted here, people need outside help! Consultants can be a very cost-effective way of avoiding implementation 'potholes'. Why is the Cove so popular if we all have the answers ourselves?

Did you have a poor experience with a consultant?

 

[Stijloor]

Like it or not...the fact remains....it's to his (or anyone else's) advantage to rely on themselves, and not an outsider.

A few questions....

• Have you ever been to a doctor or a specialist?
• Have you ever seen a lawyer?
• Have you ever been to a tax specialist?
• Have you ever dealt with an architect?
• Have you ever sought advice from a clergy person?

These are all consultants...

Stijloor.

 

[Jim Wynne]

Like it or not...the fact remains....it's to his (or anyone else's) advantage to rely on themselves, and not an outsider.

That's not a fact, it's an opinion, and a questionable one at that. It's not prudent to rely on yourself when you don't know what you're doing and don't have the time to get educated.