As we know, managing the organization’s quality and internal practice improvement cannot be done in a single approach. Many different standards can be applied. Also, the ISO 9001 standard is one of the most commonly used standard across the globe. The ISO 9001 offers organizations a set of procedures that guarantee a practical approach to business management and develop a process approach. Additionally, the quality management system should guarantee consistency and advancement of working procedures, resulting in the production of goods and services that satisfy customers' needs. So, if you are wondering how to get an ISO 9001 certification? But don’t know where to start and what to do? Then, it is best to have an ISO 9001 consultant.  In this article, we acquire about the ISO  9001 consultant, what are the needs of an ISO 9001 consultant, and the roles and responsibilities of an ISO 9001 consultant.

What is an ISO 9001 Consultant?

The ISO 9001 consultant will implement, guide, and assess each process to determine its effectiveness in terms of a quality management system. In addition, the consultant may request that the company rebuild its processes if they uncover any potential nonconformities to maintain compliance with ISO 9001 standards. Before the certification audit, the ISO 9001 consultant assists in the preparation of all the documents, procedures, etc.

Why do we need an ISO 9001 consultant?

Well, it is difficult to respond. However, if an organization wants to obtain ISO 9001 certification as quickly as possible, also a consultant can spot minor process problems that the staff might miss or brush off. An expert's viewpoint can provide additional value to the way a company performs.

What are the responsibilities of an ISO 9001 consultant?

Here are several responsibilities of an ISO 9001 consultant, which are mentioned below:

1. ISO 9001 and ISO 9001:2015 Standard Interpretation: The responsibility of ISO 9001 consultants is vital because they will recognize the specific QMS requirements of an organization and implement the standards appropriately. Additionally, they will use simplified language to help people comprehend each level.
2. Gap Analysis: The first critical step toward implementing an effective quality management system is gap analysis. It is critical to analyze the company's current QMS, identify flaws, and implement strategies to overcome and improve them. The organization’s current management system practices, documentation, and controls will be examined by an ISO consultant. Also, perform quality assurance to ensure that the services meet the standards. The professionals will provide a detailed audit report highlighting the gaps in the organization and recommendations based on the findings.
3. ISO 9001 Project Strategy and Organization: An ISO consultant's major element is ISO 9001 project strategy and organization. Based on the size of the organization, an experienced consultant can assist in developing a plan for ISO 9001 QMS implementation. They will create a very well-tailored strategy and allocate the necessary time and resources. They will be in full control of all critical activities, mandatory requirements, resources, training, authorizations, milestone reviews, and problem resolution.
4. To Identify Business Processes and Documentation: ISO consultants will assist in determining which business processes are critical to the organization. Resource planning, customer-oriented management, measurement, product realization, outsourced operations, and support are among the various processes. They will also support the document preparation.
5. ISO 9001 QMS Implementation and Documentation: An ISO 9001 consultant is extremely important in streamlining the plan and implementing controls and operational strategies that are suited to the company's existing QMS. ISO 9001 consultants can assist in determining which processes should be monitored. They will assist in establishing objectives and gathering or preparing necessary documentation. An ISO consultant will assist in identifying the essential required documents for the organization's QMS planning and implementation stages.
6. ISO 9001 Pre-Assessment: The organization will be guided and prepared for the pre-assessment by an ISO consultant. ISO 9001 certification bodies must conduct an ISO 9001:2015 certification audit in two stages: They begin by reviewing the company's readiness in terms of business planning, internal audits, and documentation. In stage 2, they will conduct an audit of the company's management system to ensure that planned controls are effectively implemented.
7. ISO 9001 Training: An ISO Consultant should be able to train their clients and employees on ISO 9001.
8. ISO 9001 Internal Audit Program: Internal audits are critical for tracking the effectiveness of a company's QMS and overcoming any setbacks before the certification body's assessment. ISO 9001 consultants will assist in performing internal audits by the ISO 9001:2015 standard, preventing from missing the mark of certification requirements.
9. Continual Improvement and Maintenance: An ISO consultant is essential in assisting businesses to continuously improve and maintain their QMS, and the ISO 9001: 2015 standard requires businesses to develop and maintain a dynamic QMS.

Source: https://punyamacademy.wordpress.com/2022/07/30/what-is-an-iso-9001-consultant-and-their-responsibilities/