The direct answer
An ISO consultant helps your team build and improve a management system. A certification body independently audits it and decides whether it meets the requirements for certification. ISO develops the standards and does not issue certificates.
What your consultant can help with
Typical support can include a gap review, practical process design, team awareness, implementation guidance and internal audit preparation. Agree the outputs in writing and clarify what your own team must do.
What the certification body does
The certification body plans and performs its assessment, evaluates evidence and decides the certification outcome. Consulting and certification costs should be separately identifiable.
Questions before you appoint either party
Ask about competence for your scope, the applicable standard, independence, audit arrangements and continuing certification obligations. If accreditation is required by a customer, verify the certification body’s relevant accredited scope with the accreditation body.
Sources & editorial information
Prepared by the Standards Advisory editorial team. This guide provides general information and does not reproduce the standards or replace a review of your specific scope.