How to choose a consultant for implementing and improving a quality management system? ISO 10019 Guidelines

The decision to implement a Quality Management System (QMS) in compliance with the ISO 9001 standard marks the beginning of many significant actions and sometimes substantial changes in the management of a company. In the previous article, "Implementing ISO Standard – Independently or with a Consultant?" we discussed two possibilities for achieving compliance with the standard. In this article, we will focus on the option of collaborating with a quality management system consultant (commonly referred to as an ISO consultant or ISO advisor).

Quality management system consultant

According to ISO 10019:2005, a Quality Management System consultant's task is to assist organizations in creating and implementing a quality management system. They provide advice and deliver information and solutions that improve the effectiveness of the quality management system.

Purpose of ISO 10019:2005

ISO 10019:2005 "Guidelines for the Selection of Quality Management System Consultants and Use of Their Services" was developed to help organizations select appropriate consultants and effectively use their services. This standard aids in identifying consultants who possess the necessary qualifications and competencies to effectively implement and maintain quality management systems in compliance with ISO 9001. The guidelines can also be applied to the implementation of other management systems such as environmental, occupational health and safety, or other industry-specific management systems.

Structure and contents of ISO 10019:2005

The guidelines of ISO 10019:2005 are not used for certification purposes. The standard’s guidelines are outlined in five chapters. The first chapter indicates the scope of the standard, and the second covers normative references. The third chapter contains definitions and terms used in the standard. The fourth chapter focuses on selecting a consultant, and the last chapter discusses using the consultant's services. The standard also includes two annexes: A and B. Annex A lists typical consultant activities, while Annex B provides guidance on evaluating consultants.

Table of contents of ISO 10019:2005

1. Scope
2. Normative References
3. Terms and Definitions
4. Selection of a Quality Management System Consultant
   • 4.1 Entry into the Selection Process
   • 4.2 Consultant Competence
   • 4.3 Ethical Considerations
5. Using the Services of a Quality Management System Consultant
   • 5.1 Consultant Services
   • 5.2 Contract for Consultant Services
   • 5.3 Useful Considerations Regarding Consultant Services

Annex A: Typical Activities of Quality Management System Consultants

• A.1 Initial Assessment and Proposal Preparation
• A.2 Example of Quality Management System Implementation

Annex B: Evaluation of Quality Management System Consultants

• B.1 Example of Education and Professional Experience of a Quality Management System Consultant
• B.2 Evaluation of Consultant References

Key qualifications of consultants

• Technical Competence: Consultants should have thorough knowledge of ISO 9001 and other related quality management standards. They should understand the requirements of the standards, assessment methods, and techniques for auditing and implementing QMS.
• Practical Experience: Experience with quality management systems is crucial. Consultants should have documented successes in implementing and maintaining QMS in various organizations and industries.
• Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential. A consultant must be able to convey information clearly, both in writing and verbally, and conduct effective training and workshops.
• Analytical Skills: Consultants must have analytical abilities to identify problems, analyze data, and formulate recommendations based on solid analysis.
• Process Approach: Familiarity with the process approach to quality management is necessary. Consultants should be able to identify, map, and optimize processes within the organization.

Steps to selecting a consultant

1. Determining Organizational Needs: Before selecting a consultant, the organization should clearly define its needs and expectations regarding QMS implementation.
2. Evaluating Qualifications and Experience: A thorough evaluation of the potential consultants' qualifications and experience, including checking references and past projects, should be conducted.
3. Interviews: Interviews with candidates allow for a direct assessment of their competencies, communication skills, and fit with the organizational culture.
4. Consultation Trial: Considering a short consultation trial allows the candidate to demonstrate their approach to solving a specific problem in the organization.

Benefits of using ISO 10019

• Selection of Appropriate Consultants: ISO 10019 helps organizations select consultants with the necessary competencies for effective QMS implementation.
• More Effective QMS Implementation: The standard’s guidelines contribute to more effective implementation of quality management systems, leading to improved product and service quality.
• Time and Resource Savings: Following ISO 10019 guidelines helps avoid mistakes resulting from the incorrect selection of a consultant, leading to time and resource savings.

Tasks of a quality management system consultant

According to ISO 10019:2005, quality management system consultants support organizations in the following areas:

• Planning and Implementation of QMS: Assisting in the development and implementation of QMS plans.
• Training and Education: Conducting training for organization employees on QMS.
• System Documentation: Creating and updating system documentation related to QMS.
• Monitoring and Audits: Conducting internal audits and monitoring the effectiveness of QMS.

Conclusion

Implementing a management system compliant with the ISO standard requires the engagement of the entire organization and appropriately qualified consultants. ISO 10019 provides detailed guidelines for selecting and qualifying consultants, aiding organizations in effectively implementing and maintaining QMS. With professional consultant support, organizations can achieve higher product and service quality, leading to greater customer satisfaction and better business results.

At Certiget, we have a network of verified and competent consultants and consulting firms specializing in the implementation and certification of management systems. If you need support, contact us – we will gladly share our contacts.