Cost of ISO 9001 certification in the Philippines


How Much Does It Really Cost for ISO 9001:2015 Certification in the Philippines? 

Breaking Down the Expenses for Quality Management Certification 

When it comes to achieving ISO 9001:2015 certification in the Philippines, many business owners find themselves wondering about the true cost involved. ISO 9001:2015 is a globally recognized standard for quality management systems (QMS), and obtaining this certification can significantly enhance a company’s credibility and operational efficiency. However, the journey to certification involves several expenses that need to be carefully considered. This blog aims to provide a comprehensive breakdown of these costs to help companies better prepare financially for their certification journey. 


Understanding ISO 9001:2015 Certification 

ISO 9001:2015 sets out the criteria for a quality management system and is based on several quality management principles, including a strong customer focus, the involvement of top management, the process approach, and continual improvement. Being certified to ISO 9001:2015 means that an organization follows these principles, which can lead to improved product quality, customer satisfaction, and overall business performance. 


Breaking Down the Costs 

Obtaining ISO 9001:2015 certification in the Philippines involves a variety of costs, ranging from consultancy fees to certification body charges. Here’s a detailed look at the main expenses: 

1. Initial Assessment and Gap Analysis 

Before beginning the certification process, most companies undertake an initial assessment or gap analysis to determine how their current processes measure up to the ISO 9001:2015 requirements. This step helps identify areas that need improvement. The cost for a gap analysis can range from PHP 20,000 to PHP 50,000 depending on the size and complexity of the organization. Companies with highly intricate processes may face higher fees due to the detailed analysis required. 


2. Consultancy Fees 

Many organizations opt to hire a consultant to guide them through the certification process. Consultants can provide expertise, training, and support to ensure that the company’s QMS meets ISO 9001:2015 standards. Consultancy fees can vary widely based on the consultant’s experience and the scope of their services. On average, companies can expect to pay between PHP 100,000 and PHP 500,000 for consultancy services. Consultants may charge a flat rate or an hourly fee, typically ranging from PHP 2,500 to PHP 10,000 per hour. 


3. Training Costs 

Employee training is a crucial component of achieving ISO 9001:2015 certification. Training ensures that staff understand the QMS and their roles within it. The cost of training programs can range from PHP 5,000 to PHP 20,000 per participant, depending on the length and nature of the training. Workshops, seminars, and online courses are common training methods, and some specialized trainings may require additional investment. 


4. Documentation 

Proper documentation is essential for ISO 9001:2015 certification. This includes creating quality manuals, procedures, and records. While some companies manage this internally, others may choose to outsource documentation services, which can cost between PHP 30,000 and PHP 100,000. The cost can vary based on the volume of documentation required and the complexity of the processes being documented. 


5. Implementation Costs 

Implementing the necessary changes to achieve ISO 9001:2015 certification can involve additional costs such as purchasing new software, upgrading equipment, or changing processes. These costs can vary greatly depending on the specific needs of the organization. For example, a company may need to invest in new quality management software, which can cost anywhere from PHP 50,000 to PHP 200,000, or upgrade production equipment to meet quality standards, which can be a significant expense. 


6. Certification Body Fees 

Once the QMS is in place, the organization must undergo an audit by an accredited certification body. The certification body will assess whether the QMS meets ISO 9001:2015 requirements. Certification fees typically include the initial audit, surveillance audits, and recertification audits. The total cost for certification body fees can range from PHP 100,000 to PHP 300,000 over a three-year certification cycle. Initial certification audits usually cost between PHP 50,000 and PHP 150,000, while annual surveillance audits can cost between PHP 30,000 and PHP 70,000. 


7. Internal Audit Costs 

Regular internal audits are required to maintain ISO 9001:2015 certification. Some companies may train their staff to conduct internal audits, while others may hire external auditors. Internal audit costs can range from PHP 10,000 to PHP 50,000 annually. Training staff to conduct internal audits can also incur additional costs, but it can be a cost-effective approach in the long term. 


Total Estimated Cost 

Based on the above breakdown, the total cost for achieving ISO 9001:2015 certification in the Philippines can range from PHP 300,000 to PHP 1,020,000. It is important to note that these figures are estimates, and actual costs can vary depending on the specific circumstances of each organization. Companies should also consider the time involved in the certification process, which can take anywhere from six months to two years, depending on the readiness and complexity of the organization. 


Benefits of ISO 9001:2015 Certification 

While the costs associated with ISO 9001:2015 certification may seem significant, the benefits often outweigh the investment. Some of the key benefits include: 

  • Improved Efficiency: Implementing a QMS can lead to more efficient processes and reduced waste. 
  • Enhanced Customer Satisfaction: By consistently meeting customer requirements, companies can improve customer satisfaction and loyalty. 
  • Increased Market Opportunities: Many companies prefer or require suppliers with ISO 9001:2015 certification, which can open up new business opportunities. 
  • Better Risk Management: A QMS helps identify and mitigate risks, leading to more stable and predictable operations. 
  • Continual Improvement: ISO 9001:2015 encourages a culture of continual improvement, which can drive long-term success. 


Conclusion 

Achieving ISO 9001:2015 certification in the Philippines involves a variety of costs, from initial assessments to ongoing maintenance. By understanding these costs and planning accordingly, organizations can successfully navigate the certification process and reap the numerous benefits of a robust quality management system. While the financial investment is substantial, the potential for improved efficiency, customer satisfaction, and market opportunities makes ISO 9001:2015 certification a valuable endeavor for any organization committed to quality and excellence. 

 

We offer 100% online and digital proposals for your ISO 9001 certification in the Philippines. Send us an email at director@bluestarcmi.com to get started.

Organizations have an option to either implement the entire management system by themselves by creating an internal project team or hiring an expert ISO consultant to assist the core team with implementation.

In case an organization wants to implement everything on its own, the process may take more time, might go through several ups and downs, and might not get desired results in the event of inadequate competence within the team. Implementing a QMS by oneself may prove to be more costly than hiring the services of a consultant.

So, the best option is to hire the services of an expert consulting company like Bluestar Management Systems Inc. and realize the true benefits of ISO 9001 implementation and value addition. 


Click here for the price list.