answer from the qms experts:
NO! The decision to delay getting started is fraught with problems. The main issue being auditor resources. Here's why...
- Certification Body auditors are already a scarce resource, and there's a lot of "gray hair" in the industry nearing retirement age.
- Perhaps more importantly, many of the available auditors have a specialty like being able to audit the AS9100D or new automotive standard "IATF 16949." Those auditors, although they can audit to ISO 9001:2015, will be quickly swallowed up by the schedule for those other standards.
- This puts pressure on the schedule for 2018 too. Unless you want to pay for extra audit visits in 2018, getting your audit done in 2017 makes more sense, because it allows you one more audit to ensure that you have all your "ISO ducks" in a row.
- If you fail to make the transition to the 2015 requirements because you didn't "get" one of the new requirements integrated into your Quality Management System, you could end up paying to have extra time added to your audits - or extra audits - to clear any findings.
In short, your best opportunity to prepare for your ISO 9001:2015 audit is THIS year. It typically takes 6-8 weeks to complete your Organizational Transition Program course, and 3-6 months to successfully implement the program. While taking the time and getting the important people out of their usual assignments and focused on the task is difficult, don't panic; the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center is here to ensure a smooth transition.
We want to make access to training on the ISO 9001:2015 changes as effective as we can make it. We offer the following programs, which include an online learning option, which saves on some travel, gives access to our expert advice both in-person and via Skype chat sessions. CLICK HERE TO SEE A LIST OF COURSES.
Don't wait another month (you've already had 14 of them) to make your choice of training provider. Call or email The Center at 888.414.6682 or ISO@the-center.org.
HAVE A QUESTION? CLICK HERE.