Why an External View is Productive
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Most companies holding a certifications to ISO9001, 1SO14001 or
ISO27001 have done so for many years and although the standards call
for 'Continual Improvement' this is often product or service based and
often reflects normal organic growth. While there is nothing
intrinsically wrong with this approach, Directors are not always taking
advantage of the latest techniques and processes.
Many companies certified over five or six years may have a
fairly large management systems manual and processes to match; some of
these will have been expanded as a result of auditors' comments and
some by customers' complaints or observations, but not all will add any
value to the company's operation.
It is often difficult for internal auditors to "see the wood
for the trees"; What is a good idea is to have someone have a look with
fresh eyes at what you are doing; get a real heads-up on the latest
techniques and ways to reduce the administrative burden of Systems
Management.
Professional consultants have verifiable qualifications and
accreditations plus Professional Indemnity Insurance and considerable
and varied experience. It is worth asking for evidence of these
qualifications. Also any consultant worth his/her salt will be able to
furnish you with a list of satisfied clients with whom you can obtain
references.
A good consultant is worth his/or her weight in gold; not
only can a gap audit or review actually save money it can result in
greater efficiency. Remember an experienced consultant will have been
involved with a number of organisations and will be able to use that
experience to help you. Cherry picking the best practices and
techniques while retaining strict confidentiality will add real value
to your business.
Although external consultants can look expensive initially,
the overall outlay is extremely cost effective when combined with other
advantages, such as no holidays to pay for, no sickness or other
absence to factor in; most consultants will offer a guarantee of work
performed.
And the best bit is you only pay for actual work performed.
About the Author
Chris Eden FIBC, MISSA, ACQI is a director
of Quality
Matters Limited an established independent
management consultancy based in Essex.
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Article Published/Sorted/Amended on Scopulus 2014-03-18 09:37:19 in Business Articles
