The ISO Quality Systems Division (ISO QSD) is one of several Divisions within the Ministry of Industry, Investment & Commerce, Jamaica’s Business Ministry, which is largely responsible for policy development and implementation, investment promotion, business support, monitoring, and regulation. The ISO Quality Systems Division leads the implementation of the ISO 9001 Quality Management System Standard towards certification in public sector entities and medium sized private entities and provides support in the monitoring of their Quality Management System certification. ISO 9001 is the International Standard for creating a Quality Management System. The Division promotes the continual improvement in the Quality of Service across Jamaica, with an aim to transform and improve Service Excellence among public and private organizations. Ultimately, it is intended that the ease of doing business will improve and that Jamaica will become a more desirable investment destination.
The ISO Quality Systems Division’s objectives are to:
Develop, implement, and monitor the ISO 9001 Quality Management System (QMS) of MIIC, its agencies and other public sector entities.
Improve the quality management and delivery of key business services, programmes, projects and administrative services, to achieve organizational goals and excellent service delivery.
Coordinate and implement other relevant ISO Standards in Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and medium sized private entities.
Functions of The ISO Quality Systems Division
- Seeks to influence MDAs and medium sized private entities, to implement the ISO 9001 Quality Management System (QMS).
- Undertakes the necessary steps to bring MDAs and medium sized private entities to the point of ISO 9001 QMS Certification and provide them with ongoing technical support to monitor their ISO Certification status.
Request for technical advice
The ISO Quality Systems Division provides technical support for ISO 9001 quality systems implementation and maintenance of ISO 9001 QMS certification inclusive of:
- Complete: “Letter of Intent Form”
- Complete: “ISO QSD Organizational Readiness Checklist”
- Submit completed letter intent to:
- isoqsd@miic.gov.jm
- mail to 4 St Lucia Avenue Kingston 5
Services of The ISO Quality Systems Division
The ISO Quality Systems Division provides technical support for ISO 9001 quality systems implementation and maintenance of ISO 9001 QMS certification inclusive of:
- ISO 9001 Implementation Project Management
- Internal Audit
- Staff Training
- General technical guidance
Frequently asked question:
ISO 9001 is an international standard that specifies requirements for a quality management system (QMS). It helps organizations demonstrate their ability to consistently provide products and services that meet customer and regulatory requirements.
ISO 9001 provides a framework for organizations to improve efficiency, reduce risks, and enhance customer satisfaction. It also helps in gaining a competitive edge in the market and expanding business opportunities globally.
ISO 9001 is applicable to any organization, regardless of its size, type, or industry. It is used by businesses, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and other entities seeking to enhance their quality management practices.
To obtain ISO 9001 certification, your organization needs to implement a quality management system compliant with the requirements of the standard. This typically involves conducting a gap analysis, developing documentation, implementing processes, and undergoing an audit by a certification body.
Some benefits of ISO 9001 certification include improved customer satisfaction, enhanced process efficiency, better risk management, increased credibility and marketability, and access to new business opportunities.
The time it takes to achieve ISO 9001 certification varies depending on factors such as the size and complexity of the organization, the readiness of existing processes, and the level of commitment from management. On average, the certification process can take several months to a year or more.
ISO 9001 certification is not mandatory by law in most countries. However, the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce in alignment with the National Quality Policy proposes the implementation of the International Quality Management System Standard, ISO 9001, as a vehicle to transform most public and private institutions, organizations, and businesses to facilitate the socio-economic transformation of the Jamaican society to achieve global competitiveness. Some industries or customers may require suppliers to be ISO 9001 certified as a condition of doing business. Additionally, obtaining certification can demonstrate a commitment to quality and provide a competitive advantage.
ISO 9001 certification is typically valid for three years, subject to successful surveillance audits conducted by the certification body. Organizations are required to undergo periodic audits to ensure continued compliance with the standard and maintain their certification status.
Yes, ISO 9001 can be integrated with other management system standards such as ISO 14001 (environmental management) and ISO 45001 (occupational health and safety). This integration can streamline processes, improve efficiency, and enhance overall organizational performance.
Top management plays a crucial role in driving the implementation and effectiveness of ISO 9001 within an organization. They are responsible for establishing quality policy and objectives, providing resources, demonstrating leadership, and ensuring the QMS is aligned with strategic goals.
These FAQs cover some of the fundamental aspects of ISO 9001. If you have more specific questions or need further clarification on any topic, feel free to ask!
Entities that ISO Quality Services assisted in attaining certification
ISO 9001 PROJECTS COMPLETED:
