It has been 11 years since the last edition of ISO 9001 , the international standard for quality management systems . The new version is scheduled for publication tomorrow, September 16. It will replace ISO 9001:2015 and has been revised to ensure the standard remains relevant and meets modern business needs and stakeholder expectations.

The update comes after a review process that formally began in 2023 and went through several consultation stages. The final draft, called ISO/FDIS 9001 , received international approval.

As expected, the change will have implications for organizations that currently hold ISO 9001:2015 certification, as they will need to adapt their management to the new requirements.

Regarding the latter, ISO indicates that organizations certified under the previous standard must transition to the new version within the timeframe established by their certification cycle and recommends contacting their certification body for information on the process .

“Regardless of the final timeframe for the transition, it is crucial that organizations familiarize themselves with the new requirements and develop the necessary skills to implement them. One of the main challenges will be ensuring that senior management, management system managers, and internal auditors fully understand the changes,” explained Lillian Peregrina, Sales Director of BSI Latin America.

What to expect from the new edition?

Among the main changes that can be seen in the 2026 edition is the search for a greater link between quality management and the strategic objectives of organizations, in addition to the strengthening of the quality culture and a structure that facilitates its integration with other management practices.

ISO promises clearer wording for its requirements to ensure optimal understanding. A new Annex A will also be included to clarify key terms. 

“ISO 9001 provides organizations with a framework for documenting and optimizing their processes, assessing risks and opportunities, and incorporating continuous improvement into their operations. The new version will strengthen the relationship between business strategy and operational execution,” the executive concluded.

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