What is ISO? What is special about the history and origin of ISO? What role will applying ISO standards play in the development of agencies and businesses? The article below will help you learn useful information about ISO standards.
About ISO
ISO (International Organization for Standardization) is a Swiss-based non-governmental organization that develops and publishes international standards. ISO has played a major role in the creation of quality, environmental, and information security standards. With its mission of providing quality standards and effective management processes, ISO has contributed significantly to the development and growth of organizations and businesses worldwide.
Concept of ISO
ISO stands for International Organization for Standardization. The main objective of ISO is to develop and publish international standards in various fields, aiming to create common regulations and procedures to ensure quality, efficiency and safety. The organization has the role of developing standards in production, trade and information. Currently, ISO is headquartered in Geneva. The international ISO organization has members belonging to the national standards bodies of 111 countries around the world.
Depending on each country, the level of participation in developing ISO standards is different. In some countries, the standardization organization is an official or semi-official agency of the Government. In Vietnam, the standardization organization is the General Department of Standards – Metrology – Quality under the management of the Ministry of Science – Technology and Environment. The main purpose of standards is to facilitate the exchange of goods and services around the world more easily and effectively.
ISO member countries establish technical advisory groups to provide input to technical committees as part of the standards development process. ISO receives input from governments, industry and other interested parties before a standard is published. Once a draft standard has been approved by member countries, it is published as an International Standard. Each country can then adopt a version of the standard as its national standard.
History of ISO development
The ISO was founded in the 1920s. Its full name was the International Federation of National Standardizing Associations (ISA). However, the organization was suspended in 1942 during World War II. After World War II ended, ISO joined the United Nations Standards Coordinating Committee (UNSCC). They proposed the establishment of a new global standards body. In October 1946, ISA and UNSCC members from 25 countries gathered in London. They reached a consensus and decided to join forces to establish a new International Organization for Standardization. The ISO officially began operating in February 1947.
The role of ISO standards for businesses:
- Improve product and service quality: ISO standards help businesses ensure that their products and services meet international quality requirements. This helps increase customer trust and credibility.
- Increase operational efficiency: Applying ISO standards helps businesses optimize production and management processes, reduce waste, and improve work efficiency.
- Save costs: By optimizing processes and managing effectively, businesses can reduce operating costs, thereby increasing profits.
- Compliance with legal regulations: Many countries and regions require businesses to comply with certain ISO standards. This compliance helps businesses avoid legal risks and fines.
- International competition: Applying ISO standards helps businesses compete more effectively in international markets, expanding export opportunities and international cooperation.
- Risk Management: ISO standards provide effective risk management tools and methods, helping businesses identify, assess and control potential risks.
- Enhanced image and reputation: ISO certified businesses are often perceived as having high reputation and quality in the eyes of customers, partners and investors.
- Improved customer satisfaction: Compliance with ISO standards helps ensure that products and services meet the needs and expectations of customers, thereby improving their satisfaction.
Applying ISO standards not only brings short-term benefits but also helps businesses develop sustainably and creates a solid foundation for future success.
