Quality Systems
From zero to ISO 9001 certificate with full support
Management system implementation, internal audits, certification preparation and support during the certification body audit. Over 85% of our clients pass the first audit. 4-8 months to certificate.
Certification Process
3 stages to certificate
What is ISO Certification
ISO 9001 certification is the result of an audit by an accredited, independent certification body. That body verifies that your quality management system meets ISO 9001:2015 requirements and issues an internationally recognized certificate.
Implementing processes or having documentation is not enough: there must be objective evidence that the system is operating, reviewed by management and improving continually. Certification differentiates those who "have ISO" only on paper from those who demonstrate conformity to a third party.
Alternative supports you from system design and implementation through preparation and support during the certification audit. The certification body (BSI, Bureau Veritas, SGS, etc.) conducts the audit and issues the certificate; we get you ready to pass.
Who is the ISO Certification service for?
Specific certification goal
Your client, tender or regulator requires ISO 9001 certification. You need the certificate, not just process improvement.
You tried before and didn't achieve it
Previous audits with major nonconformities, missed deadlines or consultant who left. You want a partner that takes you to certification.
No prior ISO experience
You've never implemented a management system. You need complete guidance from scratch to certification.
Competitive advantage
Differentiate in tenders, access clients that require ISO, or improve brand image with recognized certification.
International expansion
Enter markets or suppliers that require ISO 9001. Certification facilitates trade and global partnerships.
Management commitment to quality
Management wants formal, certified quality. Resource availability and willingness to meet requirements.
Full certification process
- Diagnosis and system design
- Documentation (manual, procedures, forms)
- Operational implementation and training
- Internal audits and NC correction
- Stage 1 (document review) with certification body
- Stage 2 (on-site audit) – implementation assessment
- ISO 9001 certificate issuance
- Annual surveillance audits
- Recertification after 3 years
What the full service includes
Full Implementation
Management system designed, documented and implemented per ISO 9001:2015.
Internal Audits
Execution of internal audits and nonconformity management before certification.
Certification Preparation
Pre-audit, gap closure and team preparation for Stage 1 and Stage 2.
Audit Support
Alternative consultant presence during certification audit for support and finding closure.
Measurable benefits
Certification bodies we recommend
Selecting the body is your decision. We guide you on recognized options, eligibility criteria and how to get quotes. Objective recommendation, no commissions or ties.
BSI
British Standards Institution – global leader, wide network.
Bureau Veritas
Multinational with presence in Latin America.
SGS
Worldwide inspection and certification services.
DNV
Recognized technical and maritime certification.
TÜV
TÜV bodies (e.g. TÜV Rheinland) – industry prestige.
Frequently Asked Questions
Typically 4-8 months from start of work with Alternative until the certification audit, depending on organization size, prior maturity and scope. Includes implementation, internal audits, nonconformity correction and preparation for Stage 1 and Stage 2.
Implementation is designing, documenting and operating the management system per ISO 9001. Certification is an accredited (independent) body auditing your system and issuing the certificate. Alternative takes you from zero to implementation and prepares you for the certification audit; the certification body conducts the audit and issues the certificate.
No. Selecting the certification body is the client's decision to maintain independence and objectivity. Alternative guides you on recognized bodies (BSI, Bureau Veritas, SGS, DNV, TÜV, etc.), selection criteria and quotation process. We recommend obtaining at least 2-3 quotes.
Minor nonconformities are closed with evidence before certificate issuance (deadline per body). Major ones mean no certificate until corrected and verified by the body. With Alternative, over 85% of our clients pass the first audit thanks to rigorous preparation, prior internal audits and pre-audit.
Yes. The certificate is typically issued for 3 years. There are annual surveillance audits (years 1 and 2) and a recertification audit in year 3. If requirements are met, the certificate is renewed for another 3 years. Alternative can support you with post-certification maintenance and preparation for surveillance and recertification.
Yes. It's a common scenario. We review what failed (incomplete documentation, weak implementation, unresolved nonconformities, unsuitable body) and build a plan to close gaps and reach certification. Our methodology and experience in 20+ certifications allow us to rescue projects that seemed stalled.
Ready for your ISO 9001 certification?
We assess your current situation, estimate time to certification and present a proposal. No commitment.