What is an ISO 9001 gap analysis?

ISO 9001 is the International Organisation for Standardisation’s standard for quality management systems (QMS), one of the most popular standards in the world. There are a wide range of benefits to achieving ISO 9001 compliance including quality assurance, improved customer loyalty and increased efficiency.

An ISO 9001 gap analysis is the first stage in achieving ISO 9001 compliance. It involves conducting a thorough, objective evaluation of your business’s existing QMS system against the requirements set out in the ISO 9001 standard and identifying areas for improvement. This process can be done internally or can be outsourced to a professional ISO 9001 consultant.

What is the purpose of an ISO 9001 gap analysis?

The purpose of an ISO 9001 gap analysis is to assess the current state of your quality management system against ISO 9001 requirements and identify areas of noncompliance. This process will determine any issues, faults or potential risks which need to be rectified prior to applying for ISO 9001 certification.

How often should I perform an ISO 9001 gap analysis?

An ISO 9001 gap analysis should take place as the first step in your ISO compliance and certification process. ISO 9001 certification lasts for three years, so your gap analysis will need to take place at least every three years, or as needed for certification.

How to conduct a DIY ISO 9001 gap analysis

Before you begin your DIY analysis, it’s important to set goals around what you want to achieve from ISO 9001 certification and how you want it to benefit your business. Define the scope of your quality management system including which departments and locations of the business it will be responsible for.

One you’ve determined the scope of your QMS it’s time to conduct your gap analysis to find out which areas of the ISO 9001 standard you’re already compliant with and which aspects require improvement.

To conduct a DIY ISO 9001 gap analysis, compare your current QMS and your business practices against the requirements set out in clauses 4 -10 of the ISO 9001 standard.

DIY ISO 9001 gap analysis checklist PDF

Add the checklist to you basket to download the DIY gap analysis checklist and perform your own ISO 9001 gap analysis.