ISO 9001:2015 Clause 3 - Terms and Definitions
Clause 3: Terms and Definitions ensures consistent usage and understanding of specific words and phrases within ISO 9001:2015. This standardization is crucial for effective quality management system implementation and communication.
Key Points
- Alignment with ISO 9000:2015: All terms and definitions are found in ISO 9000:2015.
- Consistent Language for QMS: All QMS-related communications and documents should use these agreed definitions to prevent ambiguity.
- Universal Application: Terms apply across all aspects of quality management.
Why Terms and Definitions Matter
| Benefit |
Impact |
| Clarity |
Prevents misunderstandings in communication |
| Consistency |
Ensures uniform interpretation by all stakeholders |
| Compliance |
Supports accurate implementation of requirements |
| Communication |
Facilitates clear internal and external dialogue |
Key ISO 9001/ISO 9000 Terms
| Term |
Definition (ISO 9000:2015) |
Application Context |
| Quality |
Degree to which a set of inherent characteristics fulfills requirements. |
Product, service, and process evaluation |
| Process |
Set of interrelated or interacting activities that use inputs to deliver an intended result. |
Operational and management activities |
| Product |
Output of a process that is intended for a customer or end-user. |
Tangible deliverables |
| Service |
Output of an organization with at least one activity necessarily performed between the organization and the customer. |
Customer interaction and delivery |
| Risk |
Effect of uncertainty on objectives. |
Strategic and operational planning |
| Top Management |
Person or group of people who directs and controls an organization at the highest level. |
Leadership and governance |
| Improvement |
Activity to enhance performance. |
Continuous improvement initiatives |
| Documented Information |
Information required to be controlled and maintained, and the medium on which it is contained. |
Documentation and records |
Implementation Guidelines
| Practice |
Implementation Approach |
| Glossary Creation |
Include an appendix or quick reference in your quality manual |
| Staff Training |
Use practical examples and scenarios in training sessions |
| Document Control |
Ensure consistent terminology across all QMS documentation |
| Audit Preparation |
Train internal auditors on standard terminology usage |
Important Note
While this page provides common terms and definitions, always refer to ISO 9000:2015 for the complete and authoritative list of terms and definitions used in quality management systems. Regular review and updates of organizational glossaries are essential to maintain alignment with the standard.