Get ISO Certified with IntegriSURE
The 7 Stages to Get ISO Certified
ISO is about building a system that works, proving it’s being followed, and preparing your organisation for audit and beyond.
This guide introduces the seven clear stages organisations move through to achieve and maintain ISO certification, so you can understand where you are, what comes next and how to start properly.
Still Trying to Understand 'What is ISO Certification'?
We've provided a high-level overview of the seven stages, that introduces how to best get started for the stage you are at in the ISO Certification Journey.
You can also watch this introductory video that introduces ISO Certification and helps you discover what your organisation needs at each stage.
The 7 Stages of ISO Certification
Stage 1: Establish Commitment
Align leadership on why ISO matters, what standards apply, and which parts of the business are in scope. This is where organisations build shared understanding and set the foundations for the work ahead.
Support Package For This Stage: IntegriSURE Essentials
If you're ready to start here:
Stage 2: Create The Framework For The Organisation
Set up the structure that holds the system together, including ownership, document control, and how the system will be used day to day. Responsibility becomes visible, rather than sitting with one person in the background.
Support Typically Used At This Stage: IntegriSURE Essentials or Guided
If you're ready to start here:
Stage 3: Design And Build The Management System
Tailor policies, procedures, and tools so they reflect how your organisation actually operates. The goal is a system that is clear, usable, and consistent — not theoretical.
Support Typically Used At This Stage: IntegriSURE Essentials or Guided
If you're ready to start here:
Stage 4: Roll Out And Integrate The System
Move from “we have documents” to “we work this way”. Train people, introduce procedures into real workflows, and begin collecting evidence through everyday work.
Support Typically Used At This Stage: IntegriSURE Guided
If you're ready to start here:
Stage 5: Check Performance And Close Gaps
Review how the system is being used, identify gaps early, and refine before engaging a certifying body. Internal audits and management reviews play a key role here.
Support Typically Used At This Stage: IntegriSURE Guided or Professional
If you're ready to start here:
Stage 6: Complete The External Certification Audit
Host the formal audit with an accredited certification body, respond to findings, and demonstrate that your system is operating as intended.
Support Typically Used At This Stage: IntegriSURE Professional or Partnered
If you're ready to start here:
Stage 7: Maintain Certification And Improve
Certification is not the finish line. The system must continue to operate, be reviewed, and improve over time through surveillance audits and continual improvement.
Support Typically Used At This Stage: IntegriSURE Partnered
If you're ready to start here: