Our most commonly asked questions….

Should we go ahead with ISO certification or not? Should we add more standards to our existing certification?

We will not attempt to persuade you to achieve certification if we feel it’s not in your business’s best interests. And that’s a promise. Talk with us; we can help you decide whether your company has the maturity, resources and real need for certification or if additional certifications are going to produce the ROI to be justified. Certification is not for everyone. Small businesses should not be put off, however. A really small and uncomplicated system that simply describes what you do now, can be enough to gain your company certification. And once you have it, it will open doors towards better sales, bigger contracts and helping your business to be more competitive. We specialise in integrating additional standards to your existing system.

Are we ready?

Readiness is something we can help you determine. Often businesses are surprised by how much they already have in place, even if it is ‘all in their head’. Our consultants are experts at talking you through what you currently do, mapping it out, systemising it and making it work for you, as well as being compliant. Talk to us about our ‘health check‘ service which will give you a road map from where you are now to successful certification in your first ISO standard or any additions you may be considering. You can then use out detailed report to DIY and cut your costs further..

Is it the right time?

There is never a ‘right time’. Certification can take between three to six months. Sometimes companies miss out on a great contract because they leave this to the last minute. If you get started now, we can proceed at a pace that suits you, slow or fast. That way, when the time comes that a customer’s business hinges on yours having achieved certification, you will be well prepared and will have everything you need to confidently take on those new and bigger contracts.

Can we justify the expense?

When it comes to certification and the benefits it brings to your business as it moves forward, the cost is an investment in your company’s future, rather than an expense. It may make all the difference in the world when you pitch against bigger players in your industry for lucrative contracts. Instead of being eliminated at the first hurdle – you at least become as much a contender to winning as your larger competitors- especially because smaller businesses can leverage their other advantages over larger operators- such as flexibility/ responsiveness/ creativity etc.

What will be the most significant Return on Investment for us?

With certification, your business can truly compete since often, you can only tender if your business has the ‘tick’ in the certification box. But there are many additional benefits:

  • better organisation which equals greater productivity
  • standardised, efficient systems that all staff can understand and adopt.
  • eliminate waste, duplication and money lost on mistakes and rework
  • safer, more organised workplace (reduced risk of litigation)
  • enjoy a reputation in the community of being ‘environmentally responsible’
  • attract more lucrative contracts
  • greater credibility
  • distinguish your business from your competitors

This time next year – sooner, actually – you could be a serious contender for most government tenders and larger budget contracts. Get started now; believe me, you won’t regret it!

At Integrated Compliance Solutions, our consultants specialise in standards such as ISO 9001, AS 9100, ISO 14001, ISO 45001 and ISO 13485. To find out more about how we can help you become certified, get in touch with our expert team today.

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