Benefits of ISO 9001
What are the benefits of ISO 9001?
S+SA achieved ISO 900:2015 accreditation in 2017 and we are immensely proud of our first rate, robust systems which align with the requirements of the RIBA Chartered Practice Scheme. But gaining ISO 9001 is more than just getting another tick in the box, it is a statement of our commitment to the quality of S+SA’s business, our designs and our staff.
By adopting an approach that is dedicated to providing efficient working practices, we can achieve a system that will help and support our staff as well as improving overall client satisfaction. Below we explore the benefits of gaining an ISO 9001 status, not just for us but also for our clients.
Quality Improvement
By committing to ISO 9001, we have made a pledge to quality improvement; to making the business as effective and efficient as we possibly can. Adopting this approach means that every member of staff at S+SA understands how their actions can create a better customer experience, and we have put processes in place to continually review and improve this experience. Our regular internal reviews and independent audits ensure any inefficiencies are quickly identified and improved, so we can deliver a consistently high standard of service.
Customer Satisfaction
Being able to share that we have achieved ISO 9001 status with our clients shows them immediately that we’re fully committed to quality. Maintaining the highest level of customer satisfaction is our number one goal. Through the genuine and trusting relationships that we develop with clients, whether it is a first-time meeting or building on an established partnership, ISO gives us assurance in our customer satisfaction and feedback processes. By focusing on our clients’ experience, we feel better equipped to meet their needs which in turn improves our customer service and referrals.
Business Growth
Our business is growing, and we are at an exciting stage with divisions working in retail, health and residential. What we can be sure of is that this growth is being built on solid foundations; ISO 9001:2015 gives S+SA the assurance we can effectively grow, learn and improve with every design we create. A recognised accreditation opens up the business to larger clients both within the UK and abroad, and by adopting better internal processes and customer services, we can maintain competitiveness among our peers and achieve higher profit margins.
Staff motivation
Our ISO 9001 status allows us to spend time focussing on our business objectives and the things which really matter to S+SA. Not only do we strive to improve productivity and efficiency, we also aim to motivate our staff. By replacing older or non-existent policies with quality, documented processes, we feel we have created an atmosphere of stability and certainty for employees. Our staff are fully aware of what is expected of them and what is expected of the business, resulting in a happier more confident and driven workforce.
Competitive recruitment
Having ISO 9001 gives us an edge in the tender process. It automatically shows potential clients that we have a certain level of competence. Rather than having to spend time persuading a client we employ the right quality management requirements for their project, they can see from the outset the standards we meet. Some businesses won’t even be considered without a ISO 9001 accreditation, it is sometimes easier for organisations to make the status a requirement for a tender from the outset. The ISO 9001 provides potential clients with the peace of mind your business has been audited and approved by an independent body.
Preparing for the future
An ISO 9001 can be applied to any organisation. It provides processes that can be scaled to match business growth so you can maintain consistency and efficiency no matter how large or small your company is. One of the most important things to remember is that the accreditation is not a one-off exercise. Once you’ve gained your status there will be regular reviews carried out to ensure quality remains at the forefront of the business and customers needs are continuing to be met. In 2020, S+SA retained our ISO 9001, moreover we achieved this with no causes for concern and multiple areas for recognition. We remain dedicated to improving our practices and providing a strong and functional business continuity plan for the future.
