ISO Launches Updated Edition

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) announced the launch of ISO 9001:2026, Quality management systems – Requirements, the new edition of the global quality management system standard.

The new edition introduces targeted updates to improve clarity, usability and relevance while building on the familiar framework organizations already use. It places greater emphasis on leadership, a culture of quality and ethical behaviour, while providing greater clarity on the consideration of risks and opportunities to support better strategic decision-making. A new section also helps users better understand the intent of the requirements and apply them consistently. 

The standard also adopts the latest Harmonized Structure for ISO management system standards, making it easier to integrate ISO 9001 with other management system standards. 

Sam Somerville, Chair of ISO/TC 176 Subcommittee 2 and Convenor of the international working group that led the revision of ISO 9001, said the publication marks the culmination of years of international collaboration and demonstrates the strength of the standards development process. 

“Bringing together experts across industries, sectors and countries enabled us to challenge ideas, build consensus and develop a standard that reflects the different realities organizations face today,” Ms Somerville said. 

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see this work come to fruition. We hope organizations around the world will use ISO 9001:2026 to build confidence and create lasting value for the people and communities they serve.” 

Susan Taylor Martin, Chief Executive, BSI said “Millions of companies around the world look to ISO 9001 to ensure their operations and activities have quality at the core. This essential standard of best practice helps businesses both improve their productivity and power their growth.  In our interconnected world with complex global supply chains, a consistent approach that improves quality has never been more critical. The latest update to ISO 9001 is a testament to continued worldwide collaboration, ensuring the standard remains relevant and fit for purpose. We’re proud that BSI has helped drive quality management from a British standard, almost 40 years ago, into the world’s most widely used framework for quality we see today.” 

ISO 9001 will also be part of ISO’s first offering of digitally enhanced content available October 1, 2026.  

The publication of ISO 9001:2026 follows extensive international collaboration through ISO’s global network of national standards bodies, bringing together experts from around the world to develop a consensus-based framework that reflects evolving business needs and international best practice.  

Australia-based firm, 8DFlow, has created a helpful, no-cost guide that highlights the most significant changes to this edition of ISO 9001 standards. To view the guide, visit their website.