International Standards (ISO)

International Standards (ISO)

  • The International Standards Organisation (ISO) is an independent, non-governmental international body that develops and publishes standards.
  • ISO standards are strategies that provide guidance and tools for companies and organisations in order to ensure that their products, services and processes adhere to excellent quality, safety, efficiency, and sustainable criteria.

Purpose of ISO Standards

  • The key purpose of ISO standards is to facilitate international trade by offering a unique set of standards that all nations can follow.
  • They aim to safeguard users and consumers, by ensuring that certified products, services, and providers comply with the determined quality standards.

Key Areas Covered By ISO Standards

  • The ISO covers various areas from technology and safety to management and societal topics.
  • ISO 9000, for example, provides standards for Quality Management, whereas ISO 14000 offers Environmental Management standards.

Importance of ISO Standards in Design and Technology

  • Consistency: ISO standards provide a stable platform which businesses can use as a foundation to build unique aspects of their products, ensuring consistency.
  • Safety and Quality: By complying with ISO standards, organisations signal to consumers that their products are safe, reliable and of good quality.
  • Sustainability: ISO standards incorporate aspects of sustainability and environmental impact, assisting organisations in mitigating their environmental footprint.

Compliance with ISO Standards

  • To demonstrate compliance to ISO standards, an ISO audit is performed. If successful, it results in ISO certification.
  • Regular reassessments are needed to maintain the certification, ensuring consistent adherence to ISO standards.
  • Being ISO certified boosts an organisation’s credibility, which can lead to increased business as it provides assurance to stakeholders and customers that the organisation meets an internationally recognised standard.

In summary, International Standards, or ISO, facilitate global trade and contribute to safety, quality, and sustainability across numerous sectors, and they play a crucial role in areas of design and technology. They assist in ensuring that products and services are safe, reliable, and of a consistent quality. Compliance is measured through an ISO audit, leading to ISO certification that boosts credibility and business.