How to Choose the Right ISO Certification Body for Your IT Infrastructure

An International Organization for Standardization (ISO) certification for a business’s IT infrastructure demonstrates that the firm aligns with internationally recognized standards through an external verification process. Contrary to what many may assume, external certification bodies handle the process, not the ISO itself. Choosing an experienced provider for the certification is an important way to ensure a company meets standards to validate its compliance and improve its reputation.

Understand the Advantages of a Reputable Certification Body

Certification body representatives are auditors who check whether companies meet ISO standards. Many of these professionals from leading companies also recommend how businesses can and should improve. That is important because once an entity gets certified, it must maintain that designation through annual surveillance audits.

Each certification lasts for three years, after which a recertification audit must occur. The careful selection of a certification body ensures that business decision-makers benefit from a fruitful partnership that continues after an organization earns its initial certification. Professionals can similarly give reliable guidance about the expected costs and time frames.

Although these details vary depending on the circumstances, some consistent factors remain. For example, a company cannot undergo its initial certification audit unless its management system has been fully operational for at least three months. Those are details that some business representatives may not realize when they start the process, but certification professionals can clarify them as they learn more about individual situations.

It is also advantageous to learn whether a proposed certification body has international recognition. Even if a company operates solely in one nation now, the world operates in a global marketplace, and many companies become more competitive when they can respond to that reality. Getting certified by an internationally recognized body is a practical way to show current and potential customers abroad that the business takes its IT infrastructure seriously.

Check the Certification Body’s ISO Familiarity

The ISO has published more than 26,000 international standards. The most appropriate way for a business representative to receive the necessary focus from a certification body is to verify that the entity has relevant experience working with clients and similar positions. They should also inquire about how long the provider has overseen the certification process. That approach will help them narrow down the options and prioritize those that understand what the ISO’s expectations.

It also breaks them down into several categories. Although IT security standards are among those most relevant to those trying to get certified for their infrastructures, there are also standards related to the management of quality, energy, the environment and more. The broad applicability caters to businesses across many sectors, but it also illustrates the importance of working with a certification body that understands the ISO’s process for obtaining a certificate.

Discuss the Certification Body’s Scope

Business representatives can learn a lot from prospective certification bodies by asking about their overall experience in working with organizations of various sizes and types. The number of certifications issued also matters, as it can indicate how much of a provider’s work involves ISO certifications versus other types. Many firms offer expertise in obtaining numerous certifications, but it is a good sign if one has issued a large number of ISO-related certifications over many years or decades.

Some reputable providers have dedicated resources for their clients, making it easier for them at every stage. They also emphasize value and opportunities for continuous improvement, recognizing that success extends beyond the certification alone. That initial certificate can serve as a jumping-off point, encouraging business representatives to continually seek ways to enhance operations. They can then anticipate smoother recertification efforts in the future.

What Are the Best ISO Certification Services for IT Companies?

Once business leaders have committed to seeking ISO certification for their IT infrastructure, they should begin searching for certification bodies to help them achieve this goal. The following are brands they should consider and why.

1. NQA

Established in 1988, NQA offers a full range of accredited certification, training and support services to clients wishing to improve processes and performance while strengthening their products and services.

Representatives provide practical advice for the technical requirements in each stage of the certification process. They then assess an organization’s current compliance with a chosen standard and identify improvement opportunities. This comprehensive service has a worldwide reach, and customers receive great value with access to world-class technical support.

Key Features

2. Amtivo

Amtivo specializes in ISO certification and training. It also assists clients seeking other relevant credentials, including those related to health and safety and recycling. The brand publishes a wide range of resources in various formats to support and educate clients throughout their certification journeys.

The company has earned numerous favorable reviews, including on independent platforms. Most clients report that they would recommend the company to others, suggesting widespread satisfaction.

Key Features

3. QAS International

QAS International delivers a wide range of audit services, helping clients develop continuous-improvement-driven cultures. This firm maintains a presence in several countries, ensuring its auditors have a global reach when assessing clients during the certification process.

The company also offers quotes based on the size and complexity of the required audits. That transparency helps interested parties adjust their budgets to cover the associated costs. Client coordinators also assist businesses in scheduling surveillance audits.

Key Features

4. ABS Quality Evaluations

ABS Quality Evaluations uses a four-step process to guide clients through certification. Auditors work with clients in many industries, from IT and energy to medical devices and the government.

The company also publishes assorted resources, such as project profiles, webinars and more. This content helps clients prepare with confidence, whether they need to receive an initial certification or are getting ready for a surveillance audit.

Key Features

Methodology

Companies on this list have numerous appealing qualities, including extensive expertise, a global reach and diverse client bases. Aspects such as ongoing support and helpful resources also influenced the content, especially because those seeking ISO certification benefit from curated information.

Find a Reputable ISO Certification Partner

Business leaders who have set a goal to achieve ISO certification should do so with the assistance of ISO certification bodies, which serve as external auditors. Knowing the characteristics that make providers stand out and learning about some of the top brands should help them have successful searches.