ISO 9001:2000 continual improvement

Question

ISO 9001:2000 continual improvement

benrobotica (Industrial)

(OP)

21 Jul 05 18:00

For ISO9001:2000, am I required to standardize a unique method of ensuring continual improvement, or can it merely be reflected in other various policies and processes required.

For example, can I just say:
"Our organization’s commitment to continual improvement is reflected in the quality policy, quality objectives, audit results, analysis of data, corrective and preventive actions, and management review."

It seems as though the ISO clause on continual improvement is self-evident in the other required quality processes. Is this an accurate observation?

Regards,
Benrobotica

MadMango (Mechanical) · Answer 1 · 2005-07-21 18:42:27

I would say yes, you have interpreted it correctly.

What an external auditor will want to observe, in order to verify "continual improvement", would be the use of the QMS in the form of regular corrective/preventative actions and management reviews.

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johnwm (Computer) · Answer 2 · 2005-07-22 18:54:11

Quote:
corrective and preventive actions, and management review

There you have the crux of the matter! The corrective actions must be taken, and management review must ensure they are effective

Good Luck
johnwm
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aamoroso (Mechanical) · Answer 3 · 2005-07-23 12:46:28

I believe in addition to following the QMS and holding Management reviews to conduct analysis of data, auditors will seek that you plan for improvement based on the data. Additionally we act on suggestions from employees in our suggestion box. Continual improvement is simple to show and an auditor would probably want more than corrective actions. I believe the ISO standard (don't have a copy with me at home) states that the organization shall plan for continous improvements.

I think if you show plans on improving and actually actions taken to improve, then you are compliant.

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ISO 9001:2000 continual improvement