FAQ: What do the ISO numbers mean?
Do the numbers in ISO standards mean one is better or more advanced than another?
No. The numbers are simply identifiers used by ISO to catalogue standards. They do not indicate quality, difficulty, or importance.
Why do so many ISO standards end in “01”?
The “01” indicates that the standard contains formal requirements and can be certified against. Other numbers in the same family usually provide guidance or supporting information.
Does a higher number mean a newer or more complex standard?
Not necessarily. While higher numbers often reflect when a standard was introduced, they are not a measure of complexity or maturity.
How should I choose the right ISO standard for my business?
The right standard depends on your organisation’s objectives, risks, and stakeholder requirements — not the number. Standards can also be implemented individually or as part of an integrated management system.
FAQ: Understanding ISO Standards
Does ISO stand for International Standards Organisation?
Not officially. The name ISO comes from the Greek word isos, meaning “equal”, chosen to ensure a consistent name across all languages. It is commonly understood to refer to international standards.
Are ISO standards legal requirements?
ISO standards are voluntary. However, many organisations are required to meet them through customer expectations, contracts, or supply-chain requirements.
FAQ: Certification and Compliance
Can any ISO standard be certified against?
No. Only standards ending in “01” contain formal requirements and can be certified. Other standards provide guidance, terminology, or supporting best practice.
Does ISO issue certificates?
No. ISO develops standards but does not audit organisations or issue certificates. Certification is carried out by independent, accredited certification bodies.
FAQ: How ISO Standards Work in Practice
Do ISO standards tell me how to run my business?
No. ISO standards define what needs to be in place, not how you must implement it. This allows organisations to tailor systems to their size, sector, and way of working.
Can ISO standards be integrated together?
Yes. Many modern ISO standards share the same structure, making it easier to implement and manage them as a single, integrated management system.
FAQ: Value and Ongoing Improvement
Is ISO certification a one-off exercise?
No. Certification requires ongoing maintenance, regular audits, and continual improvement to ensure systems remain effective and relevant.
Where does the real value of ISO come from?
The greatest benefits are usually gained during implementation — improving clarity, consistency, and control — rather than from the certificate alone.