When your organization implements an ISO management system – such as ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO/IEC 27001, or others – the next logical step is certification. Certification not only validates that your organization complies with the standard, but also enhances your reputation with customers, partners, and regulatory bodies.

But how do you choose the right certification body to guide you through this important milestone?

Why the Certification Body You Choose Matters

Certification bodies, like Perry Johnson Registrars, Inc. (PJR), are independent third parties responsible for evaluating your management system and issuing your certification. While many organizations are tempted to base this decision on price alone, doing so can come at the cost of credibility, industry-specific experience, and long-term value.

The right certification body does more than verify compliance – they act as a partner that supports your continuous improvement journey.

Key Factors to Consider

Here are several important elements to consider when selecting your certification body:

• Reputation: Choose a certification body that is respected in your industry. A strong reputation lends credibility to your certification and reinforces trust with clients.
• Accreditation: Confirm that the certification body is accredited by a nationally or internationally recognized accreditation body (e.g., ANAB in the U.S. or UKAS in the U.K.). Accreditation ensures that the certification body operates according to internationally accepted standards.
• Specialization: Look for a body with auditors experienced in your industry. This ensures audits are more relevant, efficient, and insightful.
• Auditor Experience: Experienced auditors can provide valuable insights during the audit process. Don’t hesitate to request information about the auditor’s qualifications and industry experience.
• Integrated Audit Capabilities: If you plan to certify multiple standards (e.g., ISO 9001 and ISO 14001), consider a certification body that offers integrated audits. This approach reduces audit time, cost, and complexity.
• Geographic Proximity and Flexibility: A local auditor reduces travel-related constraints and allows for greater flexibility in scheduling.
• Language Capabilities: Ensure auditors are fluent in your organization’s primary language for smoother communication and document review.
• System Maturity Requirements: Some certification bodies have specific expectations regarding how developed a management system must be prior to certification. Clarify these requirements early.
• Included Services: When comparing quotes, check whether items like travel costs or document reviews are included in the total fee.

Start by defining what you want from certification – whether it’s market access, customer trust, or internal improvements. Research certification bodies used by your competitors or clients. Reach out early in your implementation process to gather quotes and evaluate the added value each body can provide.

Remember, your certification body should be a partner – not just a service provider.

Why Choose PJR?

At Perry Johnson Registrars, we understand that certification is about more than checking boxes – it’s about building credibility, improving systems, and opening doors. Here’s why organizations around the globe choose PJR:

• Globally Recognized Accreditation: PJR is accredited by ANAB and other internationally respected bodies, ensuring your certification is accepted worldwide.
• Industry-Specific Expertise: Our auditors bring deep experience across a wide range of sectors, from manufacturing and information security to healthcare and aerospace.
• Integrated Audit Services: We offer integrated audits for clients seeking certification to multiple standards, saving time and resources.
• Global Reach, Local Presence: With auditors based around the world, we provide local expertise and flexibility – no need to fly auditors in from abroad.
• Commitment to Continuous Improvement: PJR auditors don’t just evaluate compliance – they share insights that help organizations continually improve their systems.
• Customer-Centric Approach: Our team works with you from the start to understand your goals, answer your questions, and tailor the process to meet your needs.

Partner with PJR and take your management system to the next level—with confidence, credibility, and a team that’s with you every step of the way. For more information, contact us today at (248) 358-3388 or send a request to [email protected] to speak to a Project Manager in your area!