Understand the changes, evolve your Quality Management System (QMS), and prepare with confidence.
What is ISO 9001:2026?
ISO 9001:2026 is the latest revision of the globally recognized Quality Management System (QMS) standard, set to replace ISO 9001:2015. The standard includes the latest revisions to Annex SL, the harmonized structure for management system standards. ISO 9001:2026 introduces an updated structure with common definitions, a sharper focus on quality-enhancing technologies, recognition of the use of digital systems, and the enhance of a “quality culture” and ethical governance of the organization.
Transition Timeline (Estimated):
Current Standard
ISO 9001:2015
Draft International Standard (DIS)
Published 27 August, 2025
Final Standard Published
Published 16 September 2026
Transition Deadline
Approx. 3 years (by late 2029)
Anticipated Updates at a Glance
- Digital and intelligent systems: Integration of AI, data analytics, and automation as drivers of QMS excellence.
- Risk, opportunity, and supply chain oversight: Strengthened focus on resilience, anticipation of risks, and supply chain performance.
- Ethics and organizational governance: Enhanced alignment of the quality management system with broader stakeholder expectations.
- Harmonised structure: Clearer alignment with other ISO standards, enabling more effective system integration.
Suggested Actions for Organisations
- Conduct a gap analysis of the current QMS versus the requirements of the revised standard.
- Review and update QMS documentation and processes to reflect new terminology and clause changes.
- Train leadership teams and employees on revised requirements, particularly around risk, ethics, and digitalisation.
- Strengthen supplier and stakeholder controls to meet the updated oversight framework.
Why ISO 9001:2026 Matters
This revision moves ISO 9001 beyond a compliance-driven framework, positioning it as a strategic tool to enhance resilience, efficiency, and reputation. Organisations that act early will be better prepared to thrive in an increasingly digital, transparent, and ethically driven business environment.
How Intertek Can Support Your Transition
Intertek provides end-to-end solutions to help you prepare for and transition to ISO 9001:2026:
- Gap assessments and readiness diagnostics
- Transition-focused training and workshops
- Certification and system integration across multiple standards (including ISO 14001, ISO 45001, IMS)
With more than 140 years of assurance expertise, Intertek partners with organisations worldwide to ensure their management systems deliver measurable value and sustained business advantage.
