ISO 9001:2026 – Draft of the new quality management standard published
The publication of the Draft International Standard (DIS) for ISO 9001:2026 by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) marks a significant milestone in the further development of quality management. Companies around the world have been using ISO 9001 for decades to optimize their processes, increase customer satisfaction and ensure sustainable success. The new draft addresses current challenges and trends that are relevant to organizations of all industries and sizes.
What’s new about ISO 9001:2026?
The draft of ISO 9001:2026 brings with it numerous changes and additions that affect both strategic and operational aspects of quality management. The aim is to adapt the standard to the changing conditions of the global economy, new technological developments and social expectations. The most important changes are presented and explained below.
Stronger strategic focus
One of the key changes concerns the integration of quality management into the overall strategy of the organization. Whereas previously the focus was often on the operational implementation of quality requirements, the new draft calls for even closer integration with the corporate strategy. Quality management should not be viewed as an isolated system, but as an integral part of strategic planning and control. This means that quality objectives and measures must be coordinated even more closely with the overarching corporate objectives in future. Managers are required to actively integrate quality management into the strategic orientation and to emphasize its importance for the long-term success of the company.
Risks and opportunities considered separately
Another significant update concerns the handling of risks and opportunities. While these were previously dealt with together, the draft now provides for separate sections for both topics. This enables a clearer focus and more targeted planning. Organizations should systematically identify and assess risks and take appropriate measures to minimize them. At the same time, opportunities should be recognized and exploited in order to promote innovation and secure competitive advantages. This separation makes it easier for companies to take a differentiated view of both threats and potential and to develop appropriate strategies.
Enhanced organizational awareness
The requirements for awareness within the organization have been significantly expanded in the new draft. In addition to traditional quality awareness, ethical aspects now also come more into focus. Companies are called upon to promote a culture in which ethical behavior and integrity are a matter of course. This applies to all levels of the organization – from management to employees. The aim is to create a shared understanding of quality and ethics and to anchor these values in daily activities. The promotion of a quality and value-oriented corporate culture is therefore a central task of management.
Separate section on quality culture and ethics
For the first time, the standard devotes a separate section to the topic of quality culture and ethics. It emphasizes the importance of anchoring ethical principles and quality values in daily work processes. Companies should ensure that all employees understand the importance of quality and ethical behavior and actively live it. This also includes openly addressing misconduct and continuously working on improvements. The establishment of a strong quality culture is emphasized as a key factor for sustainable corporate success.
Consideration of climate change and sustainability
A novelty in ISO 9001:2026 is the explicit consideration of climate change and sustainability. Building on Amendment 1:2024, organizations are now encouraged to include climate-related factors in their processes and decisions. This means that companies should analyze how climate change could affect their business activities and what measures are required to minimize risks and adapt. This can include, for example, adapting supply chains, reducing emissions or developing sustainable products and services. The integration of sustainability aspects into quality management underlines the growing importance of environmental and climate protection for companies and society.
What does the draft mean for companies?
The publication of the draft marks the start of an important phase of preparation for companies that are certified to ISO 9001 or are seeking certification. The final version of ISO 9001:2026 is expected to be published in September 2026. After that, there will be a three-year transition period during which companies will have to adapt their quality management systems to the new requirements. It is advisable to start analyzing the changes now and plan initial measures for implementation.
Companies should consider the following steps in particular:
- Review of existing quality management systems for conformity with the new requirements
- Adaptation of the strategic orientation and integration of quality management into the corporate strategy
- Revision of the processes for identifying and assessing risks and opportunities
- Promotion of a quality and value-oriented corporate culture
- Consideration of climate change and sustainability in the relevant processes
- Training and sensitizing employees to the new requirements
How can SYNGENITY® GmbH support you?
Implementing the new requirements of ISO 9001:2026 poses challenges for many companies. SYNGENITY® GmbH has been successfully supporting organizations for years in the introduction, optimization and certification of quality management systems. Our experienced consultants support you in understanding the new requirements, implementing them in a practical manner and future-proofing your company.
We offer among other things:
- Gap analyses to identify the need for action
- Development and implementation of customized action plans
- Training courses and workshops for managers and employees
- Support with documentation and audit preparation
Conclusion
ISO 9001:2026 introduces numerous innovations that help companies to further develop their quality management and adapt it to current challenges. The stronger strategic focus, the separate consideration of risks and opportunities, the promotion of a value-oriented corporate culture and the consideration of climate change and sustainability are key elements of the new standard. Companies should use the transition period to prepare for the new requirements at an early stage in order to secure their long-term competitiveness.
If you need support in implementing the new ISO 9001:2026, SYNGENITY® GmbH is at your side as a competent partner. Please contact us for a non-binding consultation.
