ISO certifications can make all the difference when choosing your partnerships
Suppose you’re looking for telecom network hardware that’s gone end-of-life and is no longer being sold by the manufacturer. Or you’re finding ways that your business can operate more sustainably and need a partner (with the same values) that understands your data security needs. You’ll require high-quality products and services that will advance your telco network.
How will you go about finding the right partnership?
- Are they nice guys? – Yes. Amazing, but this isn’t the best way to rate your suppliers.
- Is their presentation promising? – That’s great. But, perhaps the sales manager is just doing their job.
- Do they have a good reputation? – Maybe. But that alone isn’t enough.
One of the best ways to get an unbiased evaluation is to pay attention to the company’s compliance with standards that are recognised across numerous industries. International industry standards, such as ISO certification, create opportunities for an equal, level playing field.
At TXO, we are committed to high standards and committed to our customers. This is why we value our ISO certifications, which we have held consistently across the group since 2011. What better way to demonstrate commitment to providing end to end excellence in delivery and on-going performance!
What is ISO certification?
ISO (International Organization for Standardization) is an independent, non-governmental organisation that develops standards to ensure the quality, safety, and efficiency of operational practices, products, services, and systems. ISO certifications exist in many areas of industry to ensure that a management system, process, service, or documented procedure has all the requirements for consistency and quality assurance. Each certification has separate standards and criteria. For instance, across the TXO Group we hold multiple ISO certifications including ISO 9001/TL9000 (quality management), ISO 14001 (environmental management), ISO 27001 (information security management), and ISO 45001 (occupational health & safety management). This demonstrates that TXO is a partner you can trust to deliver consistent quality and value.
About the ISO certification process
For us, being ISO certified is not a tick box exercise. It’s a fundamental part of our business and we live by the standards every day. Maintaining ISO certifications requires planning, commitment, and resources. The certification companies such as BSI Group and LRQA whom we use, adopt the following 3-step process which takes place on an ongoing basis, and this is evaluated by auditing the group on a six-monthly basis. Their adherence to the ISO standards and how they audit them is then regulated in the UK by UKAS:
- Gap analysis
A consultant reviews and documents our current processes and procedures, then highlights any areas for improvement to meet the requirements of the standard. Maintaining ISO accreditations requires us to make continuous improvements in our systems, staff training, organisational structure, and procedures. - Implementation
Any changes needed to existing processes and procedures are made. - Certification
An auditor checks that all of the documented processes are being followed and are a true reflection of the business operations. This process also involves interviewing people from all areas of our business to ensure we are demonstrating the standards in our daily practices. With ISO recertifications, this process is 2 or 3 times the length of a surveillance visit. Once the auditor is satisfied with the above information provided, a new certificate is issued.
Speaking about our recent ISO recertifications, Craig Henderson (TXOs Head of Group Risk and Compliance), said:
“ISO certifications are incredibly important – both to our organisation and for our customers. The standards allow us to be agile as we grow our business, ensuring all our operations, products and services fit with our standards. Crucially, the certifications have also helped us to respond quickly and safely during the COVID-19 pandemic. To successfully recertify our range of ISO certifications during 2021 is testament to the strength of our policies and commitment of our hardworking teams.”
To learn more, please check out our certifications and memberships page or get in touch with a member of our team. We’d love to help.