ISO standards are frameworks developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) to provide guidelines and requirements for various industries and processes, helping organizations improve efficiency, quality, and safety. While the question "What ISO is standard?" is a bit ambiguous, it can be better understood by exploring what types of standards ISO creates. We can say, ISO is not a standard itself, but an organization that develops standards.
Common ISO Standards
Here are some well-known ISO standards:
Quality Management
- ISO 9001: This is the standard for a quality management system (QMS). It specifies the requirements for a QMS that can be used by any organization, regardless of size, or industry, to ensure consistent delivery of products and services that meet customer and regulatory requirements.
Information Security
- ISO 27001: This standard focuses on information security management systems (ISMS). It provides a framework to manage and protect sensitive data, helping organizations maintain confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information.
Medical Devices
- ISO 13485: This is the quality standard for medical devices. It addresses the specific needs of the medical device industry, focusing on safety, quality, and regulatory compliance of medical devices throughout their lifecycle.
Key Aspects of ISO Standards
ISO standards are designed to be:
- Globally Recognized: They are accepted worldwide, enabling easier trade and interoperability.
- Voluntary: Organizations choose to implement them, but certification demonstrates commitment to quality and best practices.
- Continuously Improving: The standards are regularly reviewed and updated to reflect new knowledge and best practices.
Summary
In short, ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) itself is not a standard but is a global entity that creates a wide variety of standards across many industries. These standards help organizations improve their operations, products, and services. The most common examples include ISO 9001 for quality management, ISO 27001 for information security, and ISO 13485 for medical devices.
