Will it still be worth it to be ISO 9001:2015 certified in 2026?

In May 2026, our ISO 9001:2015 quality management system was successfully recertified by SQS. Almost 40 years have passed since ISO 9001 was first published in 1987. After more than three decades of audits, corrective actions and surveillance visits – does the globally recognised quality standard still deserve its place on the wall?

An honest answer: ISO 9001 is worthwhile if it is put into practice and not just laminated or framed. The companies that will succeed with ISO 9001:2015 in 2026 are not those with thick manuals. They are the ones whose teams live the process day in, day out, with the certificate being a by-product of their way of working.

When used effectively, ISO 9001:2015 is a competitive advantage. It establishes clear responsibilities, strengthens the trust of customers and partners, reduces errors, improves process reliability and promotes a culture of continuous improvement.

Successful recertification to the ISO 9001 standard

The auditors have awarded us an excellent report. This is the reward for the ongoing optimisation and implementation of our processes. The ISO 9001 audit covers the following areas:

Review of business requirements, expectations, management structure and leadership

Discussion of business vision, objectives, resources, competences and communication

Review of policies, roles and responsibilities

Evaluation of operational planning, documentation and control

Review of emergency preparedness and system maintenance

Assessment of risks and optimisation opportunities

The benefits of ISO 9001:2015 :

Proof of compliance

Fulfilment of regulatory, contractual or industry-specific requirements is transparently documented.

Trust and reputation

Certified processes strengthen reputation and trust.

Process and legal certainty

Standardised procedures minimise risks, increase traceability and simplify control.

Efficiency and resource management

Clear processes prevent errors and waste, save costs and create scope for innovation and improvement.

Foundation for a culture of learning and continuous improvement

Embedded management reviews, internal audits and action tracking strengthen a learning organisation.