International Organization for Standardization
ISOAn independent, non-governmental organization that develops and publishes international standards for quality, safety, and efficiency across industries. ISO standards like ISO 9001 for quality management and ISO 14001 for environmental management provide frameworks that help organizations demonstrate consistent quality and compliance.
RELATED TERMS
Quality Management System
A formalized system that documents processes, procedures, and responsibilities for achieving quality objectives and meeting regulatory requirements. QMS provides a framework for continuous improvement, ensures consistent product quality, and helps organizations achieve certifications like ISO 9001.
Standard Operating Procedure
A documented set of step-by-step instructions that describe how to perform routine operations consistently and correctly. SOPs ensure process standardization, reduce variability, support training efforts, and help maintain compliance with quality and safety requirements.
Six Sigma
A data-driven methodology for eliminating defects and reducing process variation using statistical analysis and the DMAIC framework (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control). Six Sigma aims for processes that produce no more than 3.4 defects per million opportunities, representing near-perfect quality.