A Guide for Businesses Preparing for the Future

ISO 9001 has been the gold standard for quality management systems (QMS) for many years. Companies around the world rely on it to improve processes, meet customer expectations, and ensure continuous improvement. But change is coming — and if your organization holds ISO 9001 certification, you should start paying attention.

A new revision to the ISO 9001 standard is currently in development. While it’s not final yet, early insights suggest it will bring important changes that reflect today’s business realities.

So, what exactly is changing, and how can your organization prepare for the ISO 9001 revision?

Let’s break it down in simple terms.

Why do they update ISO 9001?

The current version, ISO 9001:2015, has been in place for nearly a decade. Since then, the world has changed — a lot.

We’ve seen:

• Global supply chain disruptions
• Increased focus on environmental and social responsibility
• Rapid advancements in technology and digital tools
• New risks, such as cybersecurity threats
• A stronger focus on business resilience and agility

To stay relevant and effective, ISO 9001 needs to evolve too. The upcoming changes to ISO 9001 will help organizations meet quality requirements. They will also help them succeed in a fast-moving world.

What to Expect in the New ISO 9001 Standard

Although the final version of the next ISO 9001 revision hasn’t been published yet, several key themes have emerged from the discussions. Here’s what you can likely expect:

1. Stronger Focus on Risk and Resilience

Business disruptions are more common today than ever. Whether it’s a pandemic, a supply chain issue, or a cyberattack, companies need to be ready.

The new ISO 9001 standard is expected to include stronger guidance on:

• Business continuity planning
• Crisis response
• Agility and adaptability

Organizations may need to show how they prepare for unexpected challenges. They also need to explain how they keep delivering quality products or services under stress.

2. Greater Emphasis on Sustainability and ESG

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals are becoming critical to how businesses operate. Customers, investors, and regulators want companies to act responsibly.

The next version of ISO 9001 may include updates that align more closely with:

• Sustainability reporting
• Environmental impact
• Social responsibility
• Stakeholder transparency

This means your quality management system may soon need to think about more than just customer satisfaction. It may also need to show your organization’s wider values and effects.

3. Embracing Digital Tools and Data

We live in a data-driven world. More companies are using software, sensors, and AI to track and improve performance.

The ISO 9001 update may promote the use of:

• Digital dashboards
• Predictive quality management tools
• Automated monitoring systems

By using data smarter, companies can improve decision-making, reduce errors, and respond faster when things go wrong.

4. More Attention on Stakeholders

Back in 2015, ISO 9001 introduced the idea of “interested parties” — like customers, suppliers, and employees. The new revision may go even further.

Expect to see more requirements around:

• Understanding stakeholder needs
• Managing stakeholder expectations
• Building trust and transparency

This wider view helps make sure your business provides value to customers and to your partners and communities.

5. Simplified Language and Structure

One ongoing challenge with ISO standards is making them easy to understand and use. This is especially true for small businesses and service companies.

The ISO 9001 future updates may include clearer language, better examples, and a more user-friendly format. This would help organizations of all sizes use the standard more effectively.

How to Start Preparing Now

The ISO 9001 revision timeline is still unfolding, but that doesn’t mean you should wait. Being proactive now can save time, reduce stress, and even give you a competitive edge.

Here’s how to get started:

✅ Review Your Risk Management Approach

Make sure you have solid processes for identifying and addressing risks. Are you ready for a disruption? Can your business bounce back quickly?

✅ Start Thinking About ESG

Even if you haven’t started formal sustainability reporting, begin identifying how your organization impacts the environment and society. Small steps now will help you adjust to future requirements.

✅ Invest in Digital Tools

Start using data to improve quality. Whether it’s tracking customer complaints or monitoring equipment performance, digitization makes your QMS smarter and more efficient.

✅ Engage Stakeholders

Listen to the people who are affected by your processes — from employees to vendors to end users. Their feedback can shape a more effective and future-proof system.

✅ Stay Informed

Keep an eye on updates from ISO and trusted certification bodies like Perry Johnson Registrars (PJR). We’ll be providing updates, resources, and support to help you prepare.

Why the Update Matters

The ISO 9001 certification requirements are more than just a checklist. They shape how your organization works, improves, and delivers value. The upcoming ISO 9001 revision is your chance to improve your QMS and align it with modern business needs.

If done right, this update can help you:

• Improve performance
• Build stronger stakeholder trust
• Reduce operational risk
• Attract new business opportunities
• Prepare for future growth

At PJR, we’re here to help you stay ahead of the curve.

Final Thoughts

Change is coming — and that’s a good thing. The ISO 9001 revision is about creating stronger, smarter, and more responsible businesses.

By preparing early, you can turn this change into an advantage. If you are new to ISO 9001 or already certified, the team at Perry Johnson Registrars is here to help you.

Need help planning for the ISO 9001 revision

Contact us today for support, training, or a gap assessment. Let’s get your organization’s future ready.

Contact Us:

Address: World Headquarters – 755 W. Big Beaver Rd., Suite 1340. Troy, Michigan 48084 United States
Phone: (248) 358-3388
Email: pjr@pjr.com

PJR Client Spotlight: White Horse Research and Development

At the forefront of protection, innovation, and reliability, White Horse Research and Development (R&D) is a dynamic force serving law enforcement, military, armed security, correctional facilities, and federal institutions. Based in the United States, this veteran-owned company delivers rapid, state-of-the-art solutions across multiple sectors—from ballistic defense to emergency food services.

Cutting-Edge Solutions for Critical Missions

White Horse R&D offers a robust portfolio of products and services that reflect its commitment to safeguarding lives and empowering mission success:

• Ballistic and Composite Armor: Advanced body armor panels, mobile defense panels, and backpack armor engineered with state-of-the-art composite materials to meet rigorous ballistic standards. These are specifically designed to help law enforcement, armed security, military, and correctional personnel protect themselves under high-risk conditions.
• Weapons Clearing Systems: Innovative tools designed to prevent accidental firearm discharges. This attention to detail in safety protocols underscores their commitment to innovative protection technologies.
• Training and Simulation Platforms: Realistic, modular training tools—including life-sized threat vehicle targets and modular ballistic barriers—to prepare personnel for real-world scenarios, helping security professionals hone their skills in simulated high-stress environments.
• MREs and Protein-Based Food Products: High-quality meal solutions tailored for military and institutional clients.
• EV Fire Safety Equipment: Industry-leading fire suppression blankets and containment boxes for protection and fire safety.

Raising the Bar with ISO 9001:2015 Certification

White Horse R&D’s commitment to quality was elevated with their successful ISO 9001:2015 certification. This milestone reflects the company’s rigorous dedication to quality assurance, materials testing, and production excellence.

“This certification showcases White Horse’s confidence in delivering products and services of the highest quality,” said Will Markolf, Vice President. “It sets us apart in the industry and underscores our team’s dedication to continuous improvement.”

The ISO standard has been instrumental in streamlining operations, ensuring consistency, and reinforcing client confidence in the reliability and safety of White Horse R&D’s offerings.

Why Clients Choose White Horse R&D

What truly sets White Horse apart is its ability to deliver high-quality body armor in just two weeks—a remarkable turnaround compared to the typical 8–12 week industry standard. Every product is proudly made in the USA, backed by a commitment to fast delivery, dependable protection, and science-driven design.

Partnering with PJR

White Horse R&D’s experience with PJR has been smooth and efficient. “PJR made the entire process straightforward and seamless. From start to finish, the experience was clearcut and enjoyable.”

Looking Ahead

As they look to the future, White Horse R&D remains steadfast in their mission to develop the next generation of protective technologies and food innovations. With a guiding philosophy rooted in innovation, reliability, and service, the team continues to push boundaries while meeting the evolving needs of security professionals and institutions alike.

Connect with White Horse Research and Development

Phone: 888-431-WHRD (9473)
Email: Sales@whitehorserd.com
Website: http://www.whitehorserd.com

From ISO 9001 to Sector-Specific Standards and the Next Phase of Certification

Over the past three decades, the role of quality management systems has evolved dramatically. What started as a basic framework for process control under ISO 9001 has changed into a complex system. This system includes specific standards for different sectors, digital tools, and strategies based on risk.

For companies in regulated and high-risk industries, certification is important. This includes industries like aerospace, automotive, medical devices, and food safety. It requires more than just following procedures. It demands industry-specific knowledge, cross-functional integration, and a proactive approach to quality.

As these standards change, Perry Johnson Registrars (PJR) helps clients understand the growing landscape. They do this by certifying compliance and supporting ongoing improvement and operational excellence.

From Universal Frameworks to Industry Focus

The organization introduced ISO 9001 in 1987. A universal standard exists for all industries and organizations.

This applies to any size or product. It set the foundation for documented quality systems, management responsibility, and process consistency. For many years, it provided an essential baseline for organizations building structured quality systems.

As global supply chains grew and technologies became more complex, some industries outgrew the “one-size-fits-all” approach. Regulatory agencies, OEMs, and end users demanded more tailored controls and risk management. This led to the creation of specific standards for different sectors. These standards derive from ISO 9001 but impose much stricter requirements.

Examples include:

• AS9100 aerospace standard
• IATF 16949 for automotive
• ISO 13485 for medical devices
• ISO 22000 for food safety

Each of these standards is built on ISO 9001 principles. They add more rules for product safety, traceability, and regulatory compliance. They also focus on preventing counterfeit parts and planning for emergencies. These additions meet the needs of each sector.

The Rise of Risk-Based Thinking

A key change in quality system design was moving from reactive actions to risk-based thinking. This idea became important in the ISO 9001:2015 revision. This marked a philosophical evolution in quality, requiring organizations to proactively identify and mitigate potential failures before they occur.

Sector-specific standards amplify this principle. For instance:

• AS9100 includes operational risk management, safety clause implementation, and controls for external provider risk.
• IATF 16949 emphasizes FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Evaluating) and advanced product quality planning (APQP).
• ISO 13485 enforces design validation, sterility assurance, and device traceability, especially in post-market phases.

This focuses on risk reshaping the auditor-client relationship. Auditors now need to check if the team follows the procedures. They must also check if the organization identifies and controls risks in its operations.

Perry Johnson Registrars has trained its global auditor network. They now go beyond regular audits. They provide useful, industry-specific evaluations. This helps clients improve their long-term resilience.

Digital Tools and the Future of Certification

Digital transformation is influencing every aspect of business—including certification. Traditionally, audits were paper-heavy, episodic, and reactive. Today, clients are seeking real-time access, predictive insights, and integrated compliance management.

To meet this demand, registrars must adopt smarter systems. At PJR, we’re actively exploring and deploying digital enhancements such as:

• Client certification dashboards that track audit status, CARs (Corrective Action Requests), renewal timelines, and historical performance.
• Predictive compliance analytics, allowing clients to assess audit readiness and benchmark themselves against industry trends.
• Blockchain-based certificate validation, which helps verify certificate authenticity and prevent fraud in global supply chains.

These technologies change certification from a simple task into a useful business tool. This tool helps with planning and clear operations.

Integration of Standards: Efficiency and Value

As organizations take on multiple standards—quality, environment, safety, cybersecurity—the need for integrated management systems (IMS) is increasing. Companies prefer to combine their efforts.

They want to merge programs for ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, and ISO 27001 into one approach.

Integrated audits reduce duplication, streamline documentation, and improve cross-departmental collaboration. PJR supports this by providing:

• Combined audits with cross-competent auditors
• IMS training and consulting
• Cross-standard analyzing for systemic risk and opportunity identification

This approach is particularly beneficial for organizations in regulated industries, where siloed functions can create blind spots and inefficiencies.

Looking Ahead: ESG, Cybersecurity, and Sustainability

The next evolution of quality will likely incorporate broader concerns beyond traditional operational controls. Standards bodies and industry leaders are already moving toward frameworks that address Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, cybersecurity, and climate risk.

While not yet universally required, these themes are beginning to influence ISO revisions and client expectations. For example:

• ISO 14001 is evolving to align global sustainability goals.
• ISO/IEC 27001 is becoming essential as cybersecurity threats increase.
• Upcoming standards may include ESG performance disclosures, traceability of ethical sourcing, and climate adaptation planning.

PJR is proactively educating clients and building internal capacity to support this shift. As new compliance areas come up, organizations will need registrars. These registrars should understand the new rules. They should also help build systems that are ready for the future.

Quality Is Evolving—So Must the Certifier

The change from ISO 9001 to specific standards is more than just a technical shift. It shows a bigger change in how organizations define and manage quality. The future of certification demands innovation, flexibility, and a deep understanding of industry challenges.

Perry Johnson Registrars remains at the forefront of this movement. Through global reach, auditor expertise, and a commitment to continual improvement, PJR empowers organizations to achieve more than certification. We help them build systems that drive resilience, meet stakeholder expectations, and prepare for the next generation of standards.

Elevate Solutions Group:
Treating Customers as Partners Drives Rapid Growth

One of the Fastest Growing Companies in Georgia

Elevate Solutions Group, LLC recently received a Georgia Fast 40 Award for being the 9th fastest lower middle market company in Georgia. ACG Atlanta (The Association for Corporate Growth) held a celebration on June 12th where the company was recognized for its outstanding growth.

But customers and employees did not need a formal ceremony to appreciate the company’s success. In the past 12 months, the contract manufacturer specializing in plastic injection molding, assembly, and 3PL has hired more than 125 employees to keep up with demand. Its family of injection molding presses grew from 12 to more than 30 and its manufacturing, assembly and warehousing footprint swelled from 160,000 square feet to more than 243,000.

Customers Treated Like Partners

Elevate Solutions Group’s management team shares a simple philosophy about how it does business with its customers. As part of its stated mission, employees strive to understand a customer’s personal and business goals while taking ownership to solve problems and plan aggressively. In some cases, problem solving may mean investing in people or technology to help the customer achieve his/her desired outcome. Ideally, those outcomes will have the opportunity to result in a market advantage which ultimately leads to mutual growth and success.

When customers face manufacturing challenges but know they are being respected as partners, a different dynamic is formed. Both sides are making commitments and honoring them is critical. It is the kind of thinking and participation that has led to Elevate Solutions winning opportunities that other suppliers may have passed on.

ISO 9001 is Foundational

“There is accountability in producing precision plastic parts by injection molding for our customers. ISO 9001:2015 certification standards established through PJR are 100% embedded in our QMS (Quality Management System). Our manufacturing solutions are designed to help customers meet or exceed these standards. This kind of engagement is a competitive advantage everyone benefits from,” says Chris Gardner, VP of Sales and Marketing.

Case Study: Value Added Services and Partnership Opportunities Accelerate Growth

Plas-Fit of Israel spent more than two years carefully evaluating partner options to meet their need to ramp up domestic manufacturing to serve the US Market. In late October 2024, they found Elevate through an online search and shared the scope of their vision.

As the scope of the program became evident, both teams laid out aggressive investments and timelines that would include shipping dozens of molds and testing equipment from overseas to Elevate’s advanced manufacturing facility. With part volumes forecasted in the millions, it was evident that a family of dedicated presses across multiple shifts would be required to meet the demand.

Mike Shippel, Founder and CEO, said “Our growth over the last five years has been strong, but this new business meant staffing up, adding new shifts, expanding our Quality Lab and Tool Crib facilities, and most importantly purchasing 18 new injection molding machines, six of which would need to be installed, calibrated, and operational in less than 60 days.”

Plas-Fit sent key personnel from Israel to work with the team at Elevate and transfer knowledge about their processes and product line. There was an immediate sense of partnership and commitment to build a robust quality system and processes that would support the efforts. Audits by Plas-Fit and their own customers proved that everything was working.

“It has been amazing to see such progress happen in such a condensed period. Our complex needs and high standards required a company of a certain size, a location that was ideally suited for our customers, a skill set and technology base that was reliable and most of all, people that we could work with, trust, and rely on. Elevate Solutions checked all those boxes and more. We look forward to a long and fruitful relationship for both parties,” said Kobe Friedrich, Plas-Fit Owner and CEO.

Elevate Solutions Group is a privately held contract manufacturer specializing in plastic injection molding. Strategically located in Austell, Georgia, we add value with expertise in design, engineering, assembly, kitting, and 3PL services.

Elevate’s 240,000+ sq. ft. of facilities house 30+ advanced injection molding machines (80–950T) and more than 10,000 pallet positions of finished goods, serving industry sectors like Medical, Telecommunications, and Consumer Goods.

With 250+ employees, ISO 9001 certification, FDA registration, and a robust quality system, Elevate is uniquely qualified to support re-shoring and near-shoring opportunities. Our commitment to innovation, quality, and efficiency positions us as a trusted partner with some of the world’s most recognized brands.

Elevate Solutions Group
www.esgworks.com

For more information:
chris.gardner@esgworks.com

At Perry Johnson Registrars, Inc. (PJR), we are committed to working with organizations that redefine the standards of excellence in their industries. One such organization is Southern Transport, a family-owned business that operates in the highly specialized and demanding field of heavy haul transportation and crane services. With certifications to ISO 9001 and ISO 45001, Southern Transport exemplifies what it means to go above and beyond in both quality and safety.

Pushing the Limits of Transport

The typical loaded Semi-Truck weighs approximately 80,000 pounds and measures approximately 70-72 feet in length, 8-8.5 feet in width, and 13.5 feet in height. Now imagine two of these loaded end-to-end at twice the width and 20% taller. It’s the kind of logistics challenge that demands not only specialized equipment, but also highly trained drivers, permitted routing, escort coordination, and logistical expertise to navigate tight town intersections and rugged mountain passes. For Southern Transport, this is just another day at the office.

From transporting the massive components of wind turbines to supporting infrastructure projects like highway bridge installations, they play a pivotal role in building tomorrow’s world. They also work closely with industries driving clean energy initiatives, helping deliver the essential assets that keep our nation moving forward.

ISO Certification: A Foundation for Excellence

Southern Transport’s decision to certify their management system to ISO 9001 and ISO 45001 reflects a deep commitment to operational excellence, employee well-being, and customer satisfaction. Certification has given them a structured, sustainable framework that aligns internal processes with customer needs while driving accountability throughout the organization.

“We don’t just stumble upon success. We plan for it and work together as a team,” Southern Transport noted in their recent Client Spotlight interview. “Achieving certification confirms for everyone that what we do is systematic and intentional.”

The benefits of certification are seen across the board—from better-defined processes to measurable improvements in quality and safety. Southern Transport now leverages these frameworks as a foundation for continual improvement and long-term strategic growth.

A Culture Built on Trust

Trust is more than a word at Southern Transport—it’s the bedrock of every relationship, both internal and external. This philosophy is clearly outlined in their organizational policy:

“At Southern, trust is not just a word—it is the foundation of every relationship we build. Through reliable service, accountability, and dedication to safety, we ensure that our customers and communities can always depend on us.”

Their unique “TRUST” commitment guides their work:

• • Transporting and lifting loads others cannot.

• • Respecting the needs of our customers and the communities in which we operate.

• • Understanding each customer’s needs, and every situation is unique.

• • Safety is non-negotiable for our employees, customers, and communities.

• Together, with our team and customers, we transport, lift, and place the heavy assets that build tomorrow’s possibilities.

Partnering with PJR

Southern Transport’s certification journey included their sites in Kilgore and Midland, Texas, as well as Douglas, Wyoming, with PJR providing multi-site certification. The process was collaborative and customized to their innovative use of Microsoft SharePoint and their unique operational model.

“PJR has maintained a practical approach throughout the process. They took the time to understand our business, our systems, and how we achieved conformance—not just to audit, but to partner with us.”

Leading an Industry

To the best of available knowledge, Southern stands alone as the only heavy haul transport company in the United States to hold both ISO 9001 and ISO 45001 certifications with field services fully integrated into the scope. This distinction reflects a rare and rigorous commitment to safety and quality at the operational level—one that Southern has proudly made its standard.

Looking forward, they are poised for continued expansion. With a customer-focused mindset, investments in top-tier equipment, and a culture of continuous improvement, they aim to grow in ways that strategically support the industries and communities they serve.

Final Word

At PJR, we are honored to work with organizations like Southern Transport—companies that lead with integrity, build with precision, and operate with a purpose. Their dedication to quality, safety, and trust embodies the very best of what certification can achieve.

Congratulations to Southern Transport on their achievements. We’re proud to be part of your journey!

Southern Transport
(903) 986-8900
https://southerntransport.com/

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Interested in learning how PJR can help your organization achieve certification success? Contact us today to begin your journey toward quality and safety excellence.

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