The recent implementation of the new quality management system requirements has generated concerns about many issues including documents and standards. There are many types: ones that apply to a wide spectrum of products and services, ones that cover a range of processes and test methods and even ones that provide guidance or requirements for a company’s management system.
With regard to purchased goods and services, standards are most often invisible to consumers. Customer expectations are critical to keep in mind as well as those of the supplier organization when dealing with documents and standards. Standard developers as well as users need to be constantly vigilant to ensure these documents work for the benefit of all.