Certification to the ISO 9000 standards has become a virtual requirement for firms planning to do business in the European community, as well as a tool for firms that want to gain a competitive advantage in the U.S. This handy implementation guide offers a proven, step-by-step approach to the ISO 9000 registration process.

Based on the authors firsthand experience, and the as revealing accounts of others who have used his techniques to launch successful registration efforts, the book lays out a cost-effective plan for developing a quality system that fully conforms with the appropriate ISO 9000 standards. Packed with practical tips for cutting preparation and development time, it shows how to manage the activities required at each stage of the process.

Discover how to:
*Generate senior management commitment, *Train employees, * Implement an internal auditing system, and * Develop a corrective action process. In addition, the book explores such key topics as the six elements of a successful registration effort, fulfilling management responsibilities, pre-assessment, registration assessment, the relationship between ISO 9000 and the baldrige award, and more. Self-assessment checklists and a registrar directory are also included.

Executives, operations and quality managers, and other responsible for developing quality systems will find all the tools needed to obtain certification and boost the competitiveness of any manufacturing operation.