Improving quality management on the basis of ISO 9000

A comprehensive survey was conducted with a view to identifying the benefits derived by ISO 9000 certified companies in Hong Kong. It is generally agreed that the certification helps the companies to improve quality in terms of work procedures, product and service quality, team spirit, subcontractor control, efficiency and complaints. While a large proportion of the certified companies would like to continuously improve their quality on the basis of the certified management system, many of them do not know how to make a start. This paper reviews the difference between what is commonly known as good practice and the ISO 9000 requirements. Some recommendations are made for the certified companies which are planning to develop their quality journey based on ISO 9000.