Can an ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System be developed in real-time with a consultant over the internet? Of course, it can. But like any other use of software and technology, we need to understand both the strengths and weakness of the tools were considering.

Using readily available online meeting tools as part of an organization’s efforts to achieve ISO 9001:2015 compliance, companies can greatly reduce on-site consulting time and cost, through the use of web-based "virtual workspace" to increase productivity, as well as reduce both time and money spent on travel. Since most consulting assistance, and related outcomes, are organized around scheduled meetings, moving these activities online is just having the same meeting in an alternate format.

It should be noted however, that online “virtual” or “remote” activities have inherent limitations, particularly being, they can only address those areas and activities that can be viewed online on a computer screen; other activities may likely require a more “hands-on” approach, which can usually only be satisfied by time spent on-site. To completely address all ISO 9001:2015 requirements, the ideal approach is combination of both virtual (off-site) and physical (on-site) consulting services.
​

​With today’s technology, it is possible to collaborate with anyone, anywhere, using almost any web browser. In many cases, only an app or website login is required. This approach does not require any specialized software, so it can be scaled easily, at low or no cost, with limited technical expertise.
 
As of this writing, some of the best online platforms for virtual meetings are shown below. I am sure there’s others, but these are the ones we use regularly, with the best results:

• Google Hangouts
• WebEx
• GoToMeeting
• Skype
• Microsoft Teams
• Zoom

 
All the services noted above include user authentication and encryption, as well as some having multilayer security, in order to ensure that your information is always secure. We have however, found that organizations have widely varying levels of IT policy and controls implemented, so it is always best to consult and/or confirm with your IT department prior to stating which type of application is preferred and/or allowed.
​

It is also possible, using the same technology as above, to audit these systems either partially or completely. The overall approach used, and its adequacy, will depend on the organization, the scope of its management system, and the products and services that are being provided.

In certain cases, such as professional services, a remote audit may be enough to cover all areas. In other cases, such as in the manufacturing of products, remote auditing may be incorporated as a part of the organization’s overall audit program, but planning should still consider a physical assessment of activities as necessary to ensure not only the system has been implemented correctly, but also to ensure that appropriate physical controls have been implemented and are being maintained. In this later case, remote auditing techniques would be adequate for a portion of the audit, but not its entirety.
​

​Congratulations to Watlow (Houston) on their recommendation for ISO 9001:2015 Certification, as applicable to the design/development, manufacturing and delivery of electrical control panels and related services.  For more information about their products and services, go to www.watlow.com

​Congratulations to Torq/Lite for their recommendation for recertification to ISO 9001: 2015 as applicable to the design and manufacture of torque wrenches and specialty tools and the provision of related training services (Bolting Training School).  For more information on their products and services, go to https://www.torqlite.com.

Congratulations to Texas Microelectronics for their recommendation for AS9100 certification and continued ISO 9001 certification as applicable to custom microelectronic circuit design, manufacturing of microelectronic products, and testing services.  For more information about their products and services, go to www.texasmicroelectronics.com

Congratulations to Fab Services Ltd on their recertification to ISO 9001:2015. Located in Waller TX, Fab Services is a high-volume fabrication shop that specializes in the welding, forming and sawing of metallic products.  To learn more about their products and services, go to http://fabservices.net
​

Congratulations to Milwaukee Tool for their recommendation for ISO 9001:2015 certification.  Located in Jackson Mississippi, Milwaukee Tool provides manufactured and assembled tools, kitting and accessory related items.  To learn more about their products and services, go to http://www.milwaukeetool.com

Congratulations to GATE for being recommended for ISO 45001:2018 certification, as well as recertifying to ISO 9001:2015.  GATE is the first company in North America to be certified by DNV-GL to the ISO 45001 Occupational Health and Safety Management System standard.  GATE’s integrated management system covers Project Management and Engineering, Marine Risk Management, and Commissioning.  For more information about GATE’s products and services, go to https://www.gateinc.com/

​Congratulations to Hi-Tech Tilt Distribution Center for being recommended for ISO 9001:2015 certification.  Located in Brookshire TX, Hi-Tech Tilt Distribution Center is a manufacturer of punched metal studs for the Hi-Tech Tilt construction network. Hi-Tech Tilt Distribution Center is the sole provider of this innovative technology.  For more information, contact Michael G Roberts at (844) 445-4883.