What Are the Recommendations From Your Audit?

Non-Conformance (Mandatory)

One of the benefits of non-accredited certification compared to accreditation certification is that there is more flexibility when it comes to non-conformances.  This means we can still certify you even if you have non-conformances, provided we can see evidence that you are working towards compliance.  These recommendations are mandatory and should be resolved as soon as possible and certainly before your next audit.  Failure to do so could mean losing your ISO certification.  Some common examples of non-conformances include:

• Reviewing your objectives
• Not running regular Management Review Meetings (MRMs)
• Not recording non-conformances 

Opportunity for Improvement (OFI) - Non-Compulsory

Your management system flourishes on opportunities for improvement.  Whilst they're not compulsory, they could develop into non-conformances over time if ignored.  Some common examples of OFIs include:

• Displaying your ISO certification logo on your website
• Attending an ISO refresher training course
• Train an additional team member to assist with the running of the management system

This is where auditor rotation comes in handy too, as having recommendations raised by a fresh pair of eyes is one of the ways these opportunities can be identified.

Some of these recommendations might take five minutes to resolve whilst others could take days, weeks or even months.  But remember, if you’re struggling with any of these, your auditor can help you with your recommendations at your annual support meeting.  Online training modules and classroom training can also help with common recommendations.