How to Conduct Effective Internal Audits for ISO/AS Certification: A True North Quality Guide

Achieving and maintaining ISO 9001 or AS9100 certification is more than just a one-time event. It requires continuous improvement, rigorous adherence to standards, and a commitment to quality at all levels. One of the most crucial tools for ensuring your company remains compliant and ready for certification is the internal audit. At True North Quality, we specialize in helping manufacturers streamline their internal auditing process, making sure it’s thorough, effective, and aligned with ISO/AS standards.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to conduct effective internal audits to not only maintain compliance but also drive continuous improvement across your organization.

1. Understand the Purpose of Internal Audits

Internal audits are not just a formality or a compliance checkbox. They are a powerful tool that helps you identify gaps, inefficiencies, and potential risks within your Qu...

How Deming’s 14 Points Can Revolutionize Your Manufacturing Process: A True North Quality Perspective

At True North Quality, we believe that manufacturing excellence doesn’t happen by chance. It’s the result of deliberate strategies, a commitment to quality, and a drive for continuous improvement. One of the most powerful frameworks for achieving this is Deming’s 14 Points for Management. Developed by Dr. W. Edwards Deming, these principles offer a blueprint for transforming your manufacturing process, enhancing efficiency, and building a culture of quality.

Here’s how Deming’s 14 Points can revolutionize your manufacturing process and how True North Quality can help you apply these principles to drive lasting change.

1. Create Constancy of Purpose for Improvement

At True North Quality, we emphasize the importance of having a long-term vision for improvement. This means not just focusing on short-term gains but building a culture that consistently strives for better processes, prod...

The Importance of Building a Robust Procedure Library: Moving Away from Tribal Knowledge

In today's fast-paced and competitive business landscape, a solid foundation of documented procedures is essential for long-term success. Having a robust procedure base ensures that your team members are not only educated but also aligned in their understanding of how critical tasks should be performed. When businesses lack proper documentation and rely on "tribal knowledge"—the unwritten knowledge passed down informally—serious issues can arise, affecting efficiency, consistency, and overall performance.

The Danger of Relying on Tribal Knowledge
Tribal knowledge often resides in the minds of long-tenured team members and is not captured in formal documentation. While this knowledge can be valuable, relying on it can lead to several problems. First, it creates a dependency on a few individuals who hold the information. If these key people leave the organization, retire, or are unavailable, the com...

In today's highly competitive manufacturing landscape, achieving ISO certification is more than just a badge of honor—it's a strategic decision that can transform a company's operations, reputation, and bottom line. ISO certification, particularly ISO 9001 for quality management systems, provides a structured framework for companies to enhance their processes, reduce waste, and consistently deliver high-quality products. By adhering to these internationally recognized standards, companies not only streamline their internal operations but also foster a culture of continuous improvement. This commitment to quality becomes evident in every facet of the organization, from the shop floor to the boardroom, positioning the company as a leader in its field.

Beyond internal benefits, ISO certification opens doors to new business opportunities and markets. Many organizations, especially in regulated industries, require their suppliers to be ISO certified, as it assures a standardized level of q...