Road Map 1: Top Management Commitment

Road Map 1: Get Top Management Commitment  The revised versions of the quality management system starting from ISO 9001:2000 have sought to change the tradition of leaving the quality management system to the quality assurance manager or some junior manager to Top management.

Top management must drive the implementation of ISO 9001 quality management system otherwise it is a waste of time. This should not be about getting a certificate but a genuine commitment to the culture of quality. Top Management must demonstrate their commitment by providing the necessary resources and on-going support by attending some of the project team’s meetings.

The ISO 9001 quality management system must be aligned with corporate goals and strategy. Clear and quantifiable business objectives, often abbreviated “SMART” will help keep the process and people focused.

Top management must assign responsibility and authority for quality initiatives, planning, problem identification, solution implementation and control.  The Management Representative has the ultimate responsibility for the project. The ISO 9001 "management representative" must report directly to top management.