You probably only need to write 20% of the documents you think before ISO certification

Written By
Patrik Björklund
Patrik Björklund
Published
September 18, 2024
Topic
ISO Certification

Preparing for an ISO certification can feel overwhelming.

Many companies believe that it takes a huge amount of documentation to meet the requirements.

But what would you say if we told you that you probably only need to write 20% of the documents you believe?

Let's dive into why this is so and how you can streamline your path to certification.

Misconceptions about ISO certification

Many companies believe that ISO certification means having to produce long and complex documents. This misconception can lead to unnecessary workload and delays in the certification process.

Where does the misconception come from?

  • Historical experiences: Previous versions of ISO standards were more document-heavy.
  • Fear of audits: Concern that auditors will require detailed documentation.
  • Lack of guidance: Without the right tools and advice, the demands can seem overwhelming.

What do ISO standards actually require?

ISO standards such as ISO 9001, 14001, 27001 and 45001 focus on efficient processes, risk-based thinking and continuous improvement - not a large amount of documentation.

Focus on processes over paper

  • Process thinking: The standards emphasize understanding and directing processes. Management simply.
  • Custom solutions: Documentation should be relevant to your business, not generic templates.
  • Evidence-based: Proof that the system works is more important than the scope of the documents.

You also don't have to document everything. Focus on what is essential to demonstrate that your management system works and enlist the help of people or IT tools that can guide you right based on experience.

Identify critical areas

  • Risk management: Document how you identify and manage risks.
  • Process maps: Visualize your main processes for clarity.
  • Policy and Objectives: Clarify the direction and ambitions of the company.

Avoid over-documentation

  • Keep it simple: Write short and clear routines.
  • Use existing documents: Update instead of creating new.
  • Digitize: Use IT tools with features that let you work about areas instead of describe areas.

How AmpliFlow can help you

Our modern business management platform, AmpliFlow, is designed to simplify your path to ISO certification.

Examples of features to help you

  • Deviation management: Manage all deviations, suggestions for improvement, customer complaints, etc. in one place.
  • Process maps: Easily create and update process maps.
  • Risk management: Identify and manage risks with built-in tools.
  • ... and much more.

By reducing the amount of unnecessary documentation, you can spend more time improving your business and engaging your employees.

Summary

Achieving ISO certification doesn't have to be a bureaucratic nightmare. By focusing on the essentials and using smart tools like AmpliFlow, you can significantly reduce the documentation burden. You probably only need to write 20% of the documents you think.

The next step

Are you ready to streamline your path to ISO certification? Contact us to see how AmpliFlow can be customized to your needs.

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