# ISO 9001 implementation starter checklist

Use this when you have been asked to lead an ISO 9001 implementation, or to move an existing quality
management system to ISO 9001:2026. The order follows PECB's ISO 9001 Lead Implementer domains. ISO 9001
is sold rather than published, so you will need your own copy for the requirement text.

## Before you start

- [ ] Which edition you are implementing: ISO 9001:2026 (published 16 September 2026), or a transition
      from ISO 9001:2015 agreed with your certification body
- [ ] Why the organization wants it: a tender, a customer requirement, a sector scheme, or its own goals
- [ ] Top management's commitment, in writing, with resources and a named sponsor
- [ ] The implementation team and its lead

## Planning

- [ ] The organization's context and its interested parties, analyzed before anything else
- [ ] The scope of the QMS, and the processes inside it, mapped
- [ ] The quality policy, approved by top management
- [ ] Quality objectives at the relevant levels, each measurable and owned
- [ ] Risks and opportunities, considered separately, with actions for each
- [ ] A project plan with dates and owners

## Implementing

- [ ] Documented information the system needs, controlled and available where it is used
- [ ] Competence and awareness of the people doing the work
- [ ] Operational controls for the products and services in scope, including outsourced processes
- [ ] Customer requirements captured and reviewed before commitments are made

## Monitoring and improving

- [ ] What will be monitored and measured, how, and when it is analyzed
- [ ] An internal audit program, with auditors who do not audit their own work
- [ ] A management review held, minuted, and acted on
- [ ] Nonconformities recorded and corrected, with causes found and fixed

## Certification

- [ ] An accredited certification body chosen
- [ ] Records ready for the stage 1 and stage 2 audits
- [ ] An action plan for any findings, with dates and owners