What to Look for in an ISO 9001 or AS9100 Consultant

What to Look for in an ISO 9001 or AS9100 Consultant

Achieving ISO 9001 or AS9100 certification is a powerful milestone for manufacturing companies, especially in industries with high demands for quality and compliance, such as aerospace and defense. However, the journey to certification can be complex, involving rigorous process documentation, quality management system (QMS) implementation, and thorough audits. An experienced consultant can guide you through this process, making certification more attainable, efficient, and aligned with your business goals.

If you’re ready to hire a consultant to guide your certification process, here’s a look at the most important qualities to seek out.

1. Relevant Industry Experience

While general knowledge of quality standards is valuable, look for a consultant with experience specific to your industry. Manufacturing, aerospace, and defense have unique requirements that a seasoned consultant will already be familiar with. For AS9100 in particular, choose a consultant who has hands-on experience with aerospace quality management and is well-versed in the unique risk management requirements. This background ensures they can tailor a QMS that suits both industry and regulatory needs.

2. Certification Knowledge and Proven Success

Not all consultants are created equal—an effective consultant should have a history of guiding clients to successful ISO 9001 or AS9100 certifications. Ask for case studies, client testimonials, or references to verify that they’ve achieved results. Knowledge of the certification process, including all the necessary steps for audits, documentation, and continual improvement, is crucial. Look for someone who can provide a comprehensive service from initial gap analysis through to final certification preparation.

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3. Clear and Practical Documentation Skills

ISO 9001 and AS9100 certifications require precise, well-documented processes and procedures. The ideal consultant has excellent documentation skills, ensuring that your QMS, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and all relevant forms meet certification standards without unnecessary complexity. A good consultant will guide your team in creating and customizing documents that reflect how you operate, maintaining clarity while meeting the high standards required by ISO or AS certification.

4. Strong Communication and Training Capabilities

A skilled consultant will be able to convey complex ISO/AS requirements in a way that’s easy for your team to understand and implement. Seek a consultant who is a strong communicator and has experience in delivering training sessions. Effective training is essential for certification because everyone involved—from top management to floor staff—needs to understand their role in the QMS. Your consultant should empower your team to take ownership of the process and instill confidence in each stage of certification.

5. Flexibility and Customization

No two manufacturing companies are identical, and the one-size-fits-all approach won’t work for ISO 9001 or AS9100 certification. Look for a consultant who takes the time to understand your unique business, processes, and goals. They should offer tailored solutions that integrate with your existing workflows, rather than imposing rigid systems that don’t fit. Flexibility also means the consultant should be adaptable and willing to adjust plans as needed to address unforeseen challenges.

6. Continuous Improvement Mindset

ISO 9001 and AS9100 certifications emphasize continuous improvement—a principle that any effective consultant should embody. Look for someone who not only guides you to certification but also provides tools and insights for ongoing improvement. A quality consultant will support your company in establishing a culture of continuous improvement, helping you stay competitive, compliant, and efficient long after certification is achieved.

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7. Hands-On, Supportive Approach

The certification journey involves many steps, from process mapping to documentation, implementation, and audits. You’ll want a consultant who is hands-on, available for questions, and able to provide direct support throughout the entire process. A responsive consultant who prioritizes client needs can make all the difference in navigating the certification process smoothly and confidently.

True North Quality: Your Partner in Achieving ISO 9001 and AS9100 Certification

At True North Quality, we understand that ISO 9001 and AS9100 certifications aren’t just about passing an audit—they’re about building a robust Quality Management System that drives long-term success. With over 35 years of experience in manufacturing and quality management, we offer a hands-on, tailored approach that aligns with your unique business needs. Our team of seasoned experts brings industry-specific experience, comprehensive support, and practical, easy-to-implement documentation to ensure your certification journey is efficient and rewarding.

Ready to set your company on the path to certification success? Schedule your Free Game Plan Call today and let us help you build a future-proof QMS that sets you apart from the competition.