ISO 9000-a perspective on a global quality standard

The development of quality standards currently used in industry was driven by a number of forces. US Government initiated quality programs such as MIL-Q-9858 and MIL-I-45208 were a response to the poor quality of ordnance during World War II. The North American automotive industry developed its own distinct quality program and supplier requirements in an effort to compete with the public perception of superior Japanese quality. The proliferation of the ISO 9000 standards is being driven by expanding world markets looking for a universally accepted and recognized quality program. This paper discusses the history and purpose of the ISO 9000 series of standards, the projected course of the standards, the registration process, and the potential benefits within the supplier customer relationship