The first step for a successful implementation of an ISO 9000 based quality management system is for the top Management to clearly understand what it could offer the organization. Whilst there may not be any doubts about the value of an effective Quality Management system, there could be a question on the value of certification based on investment and long term commitment. Therefore the key questions with reference to QMS that each corporate executive should raise are:

1. How would QMS add value to the products and services offered?
2. What are the potential benefits and the required resources and commitments for implementation and certification of an ISO9000 based system?

The answers to these two questions could be:

1. Higher productivity and better service delivery
2. Lower the cost of service or product cost.
3. Deliver consistent quality with no quality related problems
4. More customer satisfaction and customer retention
5. Satisfy buyer and regulatory requirements
6. Better market access and competitive advantage
7. Better resource utilization and employee involvement in product development
8. Focus on need for continual improvement and market growth
9. Recognition of independent quality assessment giving buyer confidence
10. Long term commitment on customer focus and continual improvement

For any organization, supplying a product or service, from a one man operation to a multisite or a multinational organization there are a number of key steps such as those below that needs to be followed in implementing ISO9000 in order to ensure success.

Top Management commitment
Define quality policy
Identify the processes within the current system and scope
Identify system requirements
Conduct a gap analysis
Define and delegate responsibilities
Define quality objectives
Prepare quality manual
Prepare documented procedures and work instructions
Identify and provide required training
Implement system
Conduct an Internal Audit
Conduct review meetings
Ready for certification

Therefore, for a successful QMS implementation, top management commitment becomes essential. The engagement of a consultant with wide industrial experience will no doubt add significant value to your systems.