Changing the ISO Certification Body: Perspectives and Challenges

In the world of ISO management system certification, the decision to change the certification body may seem like a step into the unknown. For many organizations that already have an ISO certified management system, such a change can raise concerns. These often relate to the quality of service, changes in auditors, and even the risk of worsening the company's perception. From another perspective, changing the certification body can bring new opportunities for development and maturity of the management system.

Before we move on to the analysis of perspectives and challenges, let's consider why companies feel the need to change the ISO certification body.

Here are the reasons I obtained during discussions with companies considering such a change:

• Price

The most common reason for change is the issue of price. Many companies look for better price offers, especially when their current certification body raises rates.

• Accreditation Issue

Another significant factor is accreditation. Organizations often look for new certification bodies when current ones lose or lack proper accreditations, which are crucial for maintaining a credible ISO certificate.

• Unclear or Changing Conditions

Companies seek a new certification body when the current one frequently changes terms of cooperation or when these terms are unclear and raise doubts. Transparency and stability in contracts are key for long-term business relationships.

• Routine Change

Some companies regularly change certification providers in search of fresh perspectives and services.

• Auditor Availability

The availability and competence of auditors is another factor influencing decisions. Companies look for certification bodies that offer better auditor availability and support.

• Administrative Service Issues

Customer service and administrative support are also important. Some companies seek certification bodies that offer better support and service.

• Need to Standardize the Supplier for Multiple Branches

As companies with branches worldwide grow, standardizing the ISO certification supplier becomes an important factor. Switching to a certification body that certifies all branches allows for standardization of the process and simplifies management, increasing efficiency and consistency on a global scale.

Changing the ISO Certification Body

New Perspectives

Fresh Look at the System

Changing the certification body is an opportunity to gain new, fresh perspectives on your management system. This new look can be crucial in striving for continuous process improvement.

Communication

Despite uniform operating principles, certification bodies differ in management, customer service, upgrading auditor skills, or access to tools that simplify communication processes.

Benchmarking and Innovation

Periodic change of the certifier can also serve as a form of benchmarking. By comparing the working methods of different certification bodies, an organization can better understand its strengths and areas needing development. It becomes more aware in determining its expectations. This knowledge can be a catalyst for innovation and further development.

Challenges and Risks

Loss of Consistency

One of the risks is the loss of consistency in system assessment. Each certification body has its own way and character of work. Change may require adaptation to new expectations, which can be time-consuming and require additional resources.

Costs and Time

If you choose a new certification body solely for financial reasons, remember that changing certifiers can involve costs that are not apparent at first glance. Hidden costs may arise, e.g., from the need to adapt to new processes adopted by the new certification body.

Why is it Worth it?

Development and Maturity of the System

Changing the certification body can be an excellent opportunity to review and improve the management system. This challenge can accelerate the maturation of the organization, as well as improve the quality and efficiency of internal processes.

Return to the Original Certification Body

It is also worth remembering that the change does not have to be a final decision. Returning to the original certification body after some time, with a new set of experiences and knowledge, can be equally beneficial. Such a decision allows for the use of gained knowledge in even better adapting the system to requirements and expectations.

Discover our Self-Assessment Test for the Need to Change the ISO Certification Body! It has been designed to quickly help you understand whether your current certification body fully meets your needs.

Summary

The decision to change the ISO certification body should be taken thoughtfully. It is a step that requires in-depth analysis and consideration of both potential benefits and risks. However, by making this decision consciously and with proper preparation, you can discover new opportunities for your management system, which in the longer term can bring significant benefits for the organization.

Certiget Tip.

Dialogue with the Current Certification Body.

Before taking radical steps, it is worth considering a dialogue with the current certification body.

Initially, if the issues do not directly concern the scope of services but focus on communication or financial aspects, it is recommended to organize a meeting with a representative of the current certification body. Such a conversation can be an opportunity to develop better solutions that can satisfy both parties. This can avoid potential disruptions associated with changing the certifier, while improving the quality of cooperation.