Clearbrook Management Consultancy Ltd

Quality business improvement solutions

1. ISO standards respond to a need in the market

ISO does not decide when to develop a new standard, but responds to a request from industry or other stakeholders such as consumer groups. Typically, an industry sector or group communicates the need for a standard to its national member who then contacts ISO. Contact details for national members can be found in the list of members.

2. ISO standards are based on global expert opinion

ISO standards are developed by groups of experts from all over the world, that are part of larger groups called technical committees. These experts negotiate all aspects of the standard, including its scope, key definitions and content. Details can be found in the list of technical committees.

3. ISO standards are developed through a multi-stakeholder process

The technical committees are made up of experts from the relevant industry, but also from consumer associations, academia, NGOs and government. Read more about who develops ISO standards.

4. ISO standards are based on a consensus

Developing ISO standards is a consensus-based approach and comments from all stakeholders are taken into account.

[Above taken from ISO website www.iso.org]

BSI States ISO Standards will be unaffected by Brexit. BSI  is involved in the worldwide adoption of single standards. Internationally agreed standards are beneficial to all, as they simplify global trade and encourage innovation. The organisation’s interest is to support the growth and development of UK business, but it can only achieve this through collaboration with European and International organisations.

The BSI has clearly stated that ISO and IEC standards will be unaffected by Brexit. In addition, it will remain a full member and active participant of CEN and CENELEC, the European Standards organisations. They will continue to work towards strengthening global trade opportunities, through unified quality standards.

BSI has set up a working group to assess viable solutions taken by Norway, Iceland and Switzerland as a guide to addressing potential issues. BSI is committed to achieving continuity and stability whilst the UK faces political and economic changes. 

New Trade Partnerships and International Standards

Brexit will open up opportunities for the UK to explore new trade partnerships. Whilst China, India, Canada and the US are strong economies to do business with, there are also a number of rapidly growing economies that hold trade potential. According to research carried out by the Financial Times, the UK should be forging links with countries including Malaysia, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Egypt and Pakistan.

This is an opportunity to extend the reach of ISO certification. With increased awareness of globally recognised quality standards, companies within these countries could enhance business practices and expand market opportunities.

Long Term Stability

Many UK companies have worked to achieve British Standards, ISO certification and IEC standards for either regulatory conformity, or as a mark of high quality business practices. They should  be reassured that long term stability is likely.

[Info taken from www.qualitation.co.uk]