Re: Packaged ISO Systems-Canned policies and procedures, is it worth it?
I sympathize with the anxiety. Many quality professionals were initiated by being thrown into the deep end of the pool with zero training or experience. It can be tough to make a rational decision when you are fighting for every breath just to stay alive [employed.]
May I suggest you first research the concept of "gap analysis" - comparing your present system with the "ideal model." Depending on your budget and what your firm does, you might be able to find some relatively inexpensive help through your local ASQ Section to hold your hand while you perform a gap analysis. The key is to LEARN how and what a gap analysis entails so you can continue on your own as you review your system with internal audits (which lead to management review) on a regular basis.
My personal experience with small and medium sized firms is the most frequent gap is the lack of a WRITTEN plan for quality system, followed closely by the lack of internal audit plan to determine if the organization's plan for a quality system is being followed and suggestions for
- leaving things as they are because things are going to plan
- making corrections because the action has deviated from the plan
- following up on suggestions to improve the plan
Reading through various posts and threads here in the Cove, you will learn of the purpose and benefit of having a written plan as a baseline from which to judge your organization and thereby have a marketing edge in convincing prospects and customers your quality system will produce quality goods on a consistent basis.
Another aspect is getting your top managers to ALSO believe in the value of a good quality system, as opposed to feeling blackmailed by customers into having a quality system. This is probably either the easiest or the hardest part of the entire process.
Easiest if their motive is a good, efficient operation;
toughest if they resent being "forced" into it.
Good luck on your journey and be sure to let us know from time to time how it's working out! Welcome to the Cove!
