From Conformance to Performance Auditing and Continuous Improvement of Iso 9000 Quality Certified Systems

There has ben a major push by firms to seek certification to the International Quality Standards ISO 9000. This heightened interest is not without problems as many managers have misunderstood the value of seeking ISO 9000 certification. A review of the literature revealed a major gap in research in this area of quality management. Therefore, the aim of this study is to examine the role of the nonfinancial auditor and the audit process with respect to the existing ISO 9000 Quality standards. Qualitative and quantitative research design was used. Five case studies were developed of certified companies. Two survey questionnaires were designed and administered to 300 auditors registered by JAS-ANZ (Joint Accreditation Service of Australia and New Zealand) and 1500 companies certified by Quality Assurance Services. A response rate of 42% was obtained for the Auditor questionnaire and 28% for the certified organisations. A four quadrant model was developed to categorise companies according to perceived value derived from certification (performance versus conformance) and the maturity level of their continuous improvement culture (ISO 9000 versus continuous improvement). We conclude that conformance auditing has a role in the early stages of quality systems implementation, however effectiveness diminishes as the quality system matures.