How do you choose an ISO Consultancy company to work with?

When selecting an ISO consultant or consultancy company to implement ISO standards for your organisation, it is important to consider several factors. First, the consultant or company should have experience in implementing ISO standards in your industry or a related industry, and should be certified with the necessary credentials. Additionally, they should have excellent communication skills and be able to adapt to your company's culture and values. It is also important to consider cost, methodology, reputation, contractual flexibility and availability of ongoing support. By taking these factors into account, you can choose the right ISO consultancy company to help your organisation achieve ISO certification.

Choosing the right ISO consultancy company is critical to the success of your ISO implementation. Here are some factors to consider when selecting an ISO consultancy company to work with:

• Workload Distribution:
• Assess the balance of responsibilities between your organization and the consultancy company. Ensure they actively contribute to the process rather than simply assigning tasks to your team.
• Certification Advice:
• Verify that the consultancy company provides tailored advice on the most suitable certification for your business needs, ensuring that the recommended management system aligns with your specific requirements.
• Team Competency:
• Prioritize consultancy firms with a well-qualified team boasting credentials such as International Register of Certified Auditors (IRCA), Lead Auditor Certification, ISO Implementation Certification, and Lead Implementer Certification.
• Communication Proficiency:
• Opt for a consultancy company with exceptional communication skills that can convey ISO standards in a comprehensible manner. Their ability to effectively communicate with your employees is crucial for seamless implementation.
• Compatibility with Company Culture:
• Ensure the consultancy company is compatible with your company's culture and values. Their capacity to collaborate effectively with your employees and adapt to your organization's processes is imperative.
• Cost Considerations:
• Factor in the cost of consultancy services, but refrain from making it the sole determinant. Seek a consultancy company that offers value for money with a transparent pricing structure.
• Methodology Alignment:
• Request a detailed explanation of the consultancy company's methodology for ISO standards implementation and ensure its alignment with your company's overarching goals and objectives.
• Availability:
• Opt for a consultancy company that is readily available and can accommodate your timeline. Confirm their willingness to provide ongoing support post-implementation for the maintenance and continual improvement of the ISO system.
• Contractual Flexibility:
• Avoid stringent terms and conditions or lengthy contracts. Ensure the flexibility to change certification bodies without incurring substantial financial penalties.
• Ongoing Support and Continuous Improvement:
• Prioritize a consultancy company that offers robust ongoing support to ensure not only the sustenance of ISO certification but also continuous improvement within your organization.
• Wide Variety of ISO Standards:
• Opt for a consultancy company that provides a diverse array of ISO standards, showcasing versatility and expertise across various industry sectors and markets.
• Tailored Approach:
• Choose a consultancy company that doesn't resort to generic FAQs or templates but instead tailors their approach to align with the specific nuances and requirements of your business.

By considering these factors, you can choose the right ISO consultancy company for your company and ensure a successful implementation of your chosen ISO standards.