Quality Management Standards

Lean Six Sigma provides us with some powerful methodologies to drive business performance improvement. But we need a best practice framework that knits it all together, starting from the top and cascading down. In recent times, ISO 9000 has developed from a binary standard approach, to an integrated way of managing the business to maximum effect. The standard now requires demonstration of, for example;

• Continual improvement
• Management of risk caused by internal and external issues
• The need for an embedded mission, vision, and a proven set of values as part of the Business Plan
• Proof of organisational knowledge being understood and deposited both for business continuity and continual improvement benefits

The parallel standards in Aerospace (AS9100 Rev D), and Automotive (IATF16949) sectors reflect the ISO 9001 2015 changes too, but then add specific lean six sigma requirements along with their industry-specific needs.

So, in a sporting analogy, an excellent business is now defined by how well they are playing the game, rather than merely knowing the rules and only being compliant.