How to choose the right ISO consultant for your business

Once a company has made the decision to gain ISO certification, working out what is entailed to achieve this, what resources will be required and how long the process will take, can be a daunting task.

Many businesses simply do not have sufficient available and skilled resources to undertake the journey all by themselves and so look for a specialist ISO consultant to support them.

However, finding the right consultant can be very challenging as there are many different service offerings.

What level of external support and resources do you need?

Consider whether you need an initial gap analysis, a package of templates, or an end-to-end service where the consultant works with you to produce an ISO compliant management system bespoke to your business.

Experience in your industry sector

Check whether the consultant has previous experience in your sector and suitable customer references.

Qualifications in the standard

Consider whether they hold an IRCA qualification in the relevant standard, or other relevant qualifications such as NEBOSH for health and safety.

The commercial model

Review whether the consultant works on a day rate or fixed price project, and whether they can work at your pace around business interruptions.

The value of working with an independent consultant

Consider whether the consultant provides consultancy-only services and is not tied to a specific certification body.

Support post the initial certification

Decide whether you need ongoing support to maintain your management system through internal audits or outsourced quality management.

Simple 10-step checklist

• Decide on the standards you require and the budget available.
• Appoint someone in the business to project manage the work.
• Decide on UKAS-accredited or non-UKAS certification and review customer requirements.
• Find a consultant that can advise on the most appropriate and cost-effective certification route.
• Look for a fixed-price project or decide how many consultancy days are needed.
• Decide whether you need gap analysis only or full end-to-end implementation.
• Identify a consultant with proven sector experience, skills and qualifications.
• Decide how documentation will be managed.
• Look for a consultancy who can advise on local grants where eligible.
• Meet or speak to the consultant you will work with to ensure fit.