ISO 9001 Certification: Process, Cost, and Timeline

ISO 9001 is the international standard for quality management systems. It applies to any organisation regardless of size or industry. Steps: gap analysis, QMS documentation, internal audit, management review, Stage 1 audit (documentation review), Stage 2 audit (on-site), certification decision, and issue of certificate. The certificate is valid for three years with surveillance audits every 12 months. Cost varies by organisation size and complexity; expect Rs 1–5 lakh for an SME. Choose an accreditation body whose accreditation is recognised by your target market (e.g., NABCB for India).