What is ISO 56001 Certification?

ISO 56001 certification refers to the formal recognition and compliance of an organization's Innovation Management System (IMS) with the requirements outlined in ISO 56001, the international standard for innovation management. The certification process involves an external assessment conducted by a certification body or registrar, which verifies that the organization has implemented and maintained an effective Innovation Management System in accordance with ISO 56001.

Here are the key aspects of ISO 56001 certification:

Preparation: Before seeking certification, an organization typically establishes and implements an Innovation Management System based on the principles and guidelines provided by ISO 56001. This involves developing policies, procedures, and processes to manage innovation systematically.

Documentation: The organization documents its approach to innovation, including its innovation policy, objectives, processes, and performance indicators. This documentation serves as evidence of compliance with the ISO 56001 standard.

Certification Body Selection: The organization selects a certification body accredited to assess compliance with ISO 56001. Accreditation ensures that the certification body has demonstrated competence in evaluating management systems.

Audit Process: The certification process involves two main stages of audit:
1. Stage 1 Audit (Documentation Review): The certification body reviews the organization's documentation and readiness for the certification process. This stage assesses whether the IMS has been established and documented in accordance with ISO 56001.
2. Stage 2 Audit (On-Site Audit): The certification body conducts an on-site audit to assess the actual implementation and effectiveness of the IMS. This involves interviewing personnel, observing processes, and verifying that the organization is meeting the requirements of ISO 56001.

Certification Decision: Based on the audit findings, the certification body makes a decision regarding certification. If the organization successfully demonstrates compliance with ISO 56001, it is awarded ISO 56001 certification.

Issuance of Certificate: Upon successful completion of the certification process, the certification body issues an ISO 56001 certificate to the organization. This certificate is a formal recognition of the organization's commitment to and achievement in effective innovation management.

Surveillance Audits: ISO 56001 certification is typically valid for a specified period (e.g., three years). During this period, the certification body may conduct surveillance audits to ensure that the organization continues to maintain and improve its Innovation Management System.

ISO 56001 certification provides external validation of an organization's commitment to fostering innovation. It can enhance the organization's credibility, demonstrate compliance with international standards, and may be used as a competitive advantage in the marketplace. Organizations seeking ISO 56001 certification should choose an accredited certification body to ensure the credibility of the certification process.


Benefits of ISO 56001 - IMS Certification

Obtaining ISO 56001 certification for Innovation Management System (IMS) can offer various benefits to organizations. Here are some key advantages:

Credibility and Recognition

ISO 56001 certification enhances the organization's credibility by demonstrating a commitment to best practices in innovation management. It provides a recognized and globally accepted standard that signifies the organization's dedication to fostering innovation.

Competitive Advantage

Certification can serve as a competitive differentiator in the marketplace. Customers, partners, and stakeholders often view ISO 56001 certification as a positive signal, potentially giving the certified organization a competitive edge over non-certified competitors.

Stakeholder Confidence

ISO 56001 certification instills confidence among stakeholders, including customers, investors, and employees. It shows that the organization has implemented a systematic approach to innovation, contributing to stakeholder trust in the organization's ability to deliver innovative products or services.

Market Access and Expansion

ISO 56001 certification can facilitate market access by meeting specific requirements set by customers or regulatory bodies. It may also open doors to new markets and business opportunities, especially in industries or regions where adherence to international standards is highly valued.

Efficient Innovation Processes

The certification process encourages organizations to establish and refine efficient innovation processes. This can lead to streamlined workflows, reduced waste, and improved resource utilization, ultimately contributing to better innovation outcomes.

Continuous Improvement Culture

Certification fosters a culture of continuous improvement within the organization. By regularly assessing and improving the Innovation Management System, the organization stays responsive to evolving market trends, customer needs, and emerging opportunities.

Who can get ISO 56001 Certification?

ISO 56001 certification for an Innovation Management System (IMS) is open to organizations of all types and sizes, irrespective of their industry or sector. The standard is designed to be flexible and applicable to a broad range of organizations, recognizing that innovation is a crucial aspect of business success across various fields. This includes, but is not limited to:

Manufacturing Companies

Service Sector

Hospitals

Drugs and Pharma

Educational

Government Organizations

Research Foundation

Engineering

Shipping Industry

Aerospace

Food

Automotive

Telecom

Textile and Apparels

Medical and Test Lab

Software Development

Document required for ISO 56001 - IMS

  • System Manual
  • System Procedure
  • Policy
  • Objectives
  • Mission & Vision
  • Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
  • Checklist
  • Forms
  • Formats
  • Records

The extent of Documented Information differs as per:

  • Organization’s size
  • Activities performed by the organization
  • Processes undertaken by the Organization
  • Products and services offered by the organization
  • The complexity of processes undertaken
  • Competence of persons involved

Role of Shamkris and Process of ISO 55001 - Certification

Shamkris adopts a results-oriented approach to effective system implementation in the organization. A simple and practical method of system implementation helps organizations increase business efficiency and sustainability. Shamkris supports 100% documentation to obtain a certificate of success in addition to enhanced performance.

The implementation process is described below:

Day 1

GAP Analysis, Certification Body, Selection, Cost Estimates

• Finding the GAP between existing system related to ISO requirements
• Selecting the appropriate certification body
• Based on the scope of your business & certification body you choose

Week 1

Developing Documents

• Management System Manual, Management System Procedures, Policy, Objectives, Forms etc.
• Review of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)

Week 4

Implementing Management System

• ISO Awareness training for the top management and staff
• Implementing a well-documented management system throughout the organization

Week 8

Internal Audit
MRM
CAPA

• Internal audits identifying nonconformities related to ISO requirements
• Management Review Meetings
• Corrective and Preventive Action plan for nonconformities

Week 10

Certification Body
Audit
N-C Closing

• Shamkris acts on your behalf and assists you in the third-party audit
• Closing of any nonconformities identified by the certification body

Week 12

Certificate Issued

• ISO certificates issued for 3 years
• Surveillance Audits yearly

Year on Year

Yearly Compliance

• Support of Yearly documentation for audit

FAQ

ISO 56001 is an international standard that provides guidelines for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving an Innovation Management System (IMS) within an organization. It outlines a structured approach to managing innovation processes and fostering a culture of creativity.

ISO 56001 is applicable to organizations of all sizes and industries, including corporations, SMEs, government entities, nonprofits, and educational institutions. Any organization aiming to enhance its innovation capabilities can benefit from implementing and certifying its IMS.

ISO 56001 is important as it helps organizations systematically manage innovation, align innovation efforts with business objectives, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Certification can enhance credibility, competitiveness, and stakeholder confidence.

The certification process involves the organization establishing an IMS based on ISO 56001 guidelines, selecting an accredited certification body, undergoing a documentation review (Stage 1), and an on-site audit (Stage 2). Successful completion results in the issuance of an ISO 56001 certificate.

ISO 56001 certification is voluntary, and organizations choose to pursue it based on their strategic goals and commitment to effective innovation management. While not mandatory, certification can provide a competitive advantage and demonstrate adherence to international standards.