Knowledge Hub
Frequently Asked Questions & Helpful Insights About ISO Certification
At ISO Assured, we believe that the ISO process should be clear, simple, and value-adding. Our Knowledge Hub is designed to answer common questions, share helpful facts, and guide you through what can sometimes feel like a daunting journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ISO Certification?
ISO certification is independent verification that your management systems meet internationally recognised standards. It shows clients, partners, and regulators that your organisation is reliable, compliant, and committed to improvement.
Do I need to change all my processes to get certified?
No. ISO doesn’t mean starting from scratch or creating extra layers of paperwork. Most businesses already have systems in place — certification is about aligning and documenting them to meet ISO requirements.
How long does ISO certification take?
This depends on your business size, complexity, and readiness. For smaller organisations (10–50 employees), it can take as little as 3–6 months. For larger organisations, 6–12 months is typical. ISO Assured will guide you with a tailored plan.
What are the benefits of certification?
• Access to new contracts and tenders
• Competitive advantage in your industry
• Stronger risk management
• Improved efficiency and cost savings
• Enhanced reputation and stakeholder trust
What’s the difference between internal and external audits?
Internal audits are conducted by or for your business to check readiness and compliance. External audits are carried out by a certification body to award or renew certification. ISO Assured provides independent internal audits so you’re fully prepared.
What if I fail an audit?
Nonconformances don’t mean failure — they’re opportunities to improve. ISO Assured specialises in audit remediation, helping you identify root causes, implement corrective actions, and close gaps quickly
Helpful Facts About ISO
ISO standards apply to businesses of all sizes, from 10 to 1,000+ employees.
Certification can be a prerequisite for government tenders and high-value contracts.
ISO isn’t about paperwork — it’s about consistency, improvement, and trust.
Integrated Management Systems allow ISO 9001, ISO 45001, and ISO 14001 to be managed together, reducing duplication.
Certification is renewable every three years, with annual surveillance audits to ensure ongoing compliance.
How ISO Assured Can Help
Internal Auditing
Independent audits to identify risks and prepare for certification.
IMS Consulting
Tailored advice for building or improving management systems.
Audit Remediation
Fast, effective solutions to resolve nonconformances.
Certification Readiness
Step-by-step support to get your business certified the first time.
At ISO Assured, our consultants are also auditors — meaning we know what certifying bodies are looking for and can simplify the process for your business.
Top 5 Myths About ISO Certification
Myth 1: ISO is just paperwork?
Many think ISO certification means endless forms and bureaucracy. In reality, it’s about aligning and documenting what your business already does well — not drowning you in documents.
Myth 2: Only big companies need ISO certification
ISO applies to businesses of all sizes. Whether you’re a 10-person contractor or a 1,000-employee enterprise, ISO standards can be tailored to your business scale and industry.
Myth 3: ISO certification is too expensive
While certification is an investment, it often pays for itself by unlocking new contracts, improving efficiency, and reducing risks. For many businesses, winning a single government or corporate tender covers the cost many times over.
Myth 4: ISO slows down operations
ISO isn’t about adding extra steps — it’s about creating consistency. Most businesses actually find certification reduces duplication, eliminates inefficiencies, and saves time.
Myth 5: If you fail an audit, you lose everything
Nonconformances are not failures — they’re opportunities for improvement. ISO Assured specialises in audit remediation, helping you quickly address issues and keep your certification secure.
Certification Process – Simplified
We guide you through each step of the certification journey, removing uncertainty and helping you focus on what matters: building a safer, stronger, and more compliant business.