The Myths and Misconceptions of ISO 9001

What are some of the benefits of ISO 9001? 

ISO 9001 gives you a framework to drive your organisation forward and increase your profitability, as well as: 

• Win more contracts 

• Increase your reputation and status 

• Improve relationships with stakeholders and suppliers 

• Manage your people and systems more effectively 

• Commit to continuous improvement 

• Give your business a competitive advantage  

• Receive external recognition of your best practice 

Time to myth bust some common misconceptions associated with the standard: 

Myth 1: ISO Certification is only for big businesses  

Fact: It’s actually more than suitable for organisations of any size or sector, from one-man-bands to international organisations, its principles, such as continual improvement and customer satisfaction, apply universally. 

Myth 2: It’s just about paperwork and documentation  

Fact: Although earlier versions of ISO 9001 were more document heavy, the current version (ISO 9001:2025) focuses on an organisation’s performance, risk-based thinking and improving processes, meaning less document heavy and much more activity based. 

Myth 3: Once certified, that’s it 

Fact: Certification isn’t a one-time achievement. Organisations undertaking accreditation must undergo regular audits as well as showing continual improvement to maintain certification.  

ISO certification follows a three-year audit cycle. The first audit is conducted in two stages, with stage one involving a review of your documented QMS, and stage two assesses the effectiveness of your QMS. Your certification body, such as Centre for Assessment, will then conduct annual review visits over the next two years, working within your organisations timeframes and providing assistance where needed. 

Myth 4: It’s expensive and not worth the cost 

Fact: Although implementation costs vary with size and complexity, most organisations who have become certified in ISO 9001 agree that the standard helps to reduce waste, improve efficiency and win new business; often paying for itself overtime. 

Myth 5: ISO 9001 takes away flexibility and slows things down 

Fact: When implemented properly, it streamlines processes and clarifies responsibilities. The standard is also known for its flexibility, it tells you what you need to achieve and how to do it.  

Is ISO 9001 right for your organisation? 

If you’re looking to evaluate and improve the way you do business, ISO 9001 is the right certification for you. Often, ISO 9001 is a requirement of clients, therefore having this certification helps you to stand out from the crowd. 

Hear what ISO 9001 client PBA Ecology had to say about the standard: 

“As a direct consequence of working with CfA to refine our quality management systems in line with ISO9001:2015, we have secured long-term framework partnerships with five major clients.  We have seen our client base grow exponentially and we now enjoy considerable repeat business from demanding existing clients reducing to almost nil the need for resource intensive competitive tendering. The process of competing for framework tenders has been simplified, made more effective, evidence based and successful.  Above all we can now demonstrate that effective and efficient ecology services underpinned by a systematic approach to quality are a benefit rather than a cost”. 

As a UKAS-accredited body, Centre for Assessment offers impartial, robust and cost-effective audits of your quality management system, leading to ISO 9001 certification for your organisation. 

For more information on the ISO 9001 certification, visit our website: Home | Centre for Assessment