A study published in ASQ’s Quality Management Journal this month (Jan 2012) found that ISO9001 Certification (Quality Management Systems Requirements) improved workmanship performance substantially in construction projects. It establishes a substantial correlation between ISO9001 certification and the improvement of workmanship performance.
ISO9001 was found to ensure effective management of construction projects. The improvement aspect of ISO9001 was found to help improve workmanship and as a result impacting defective work, productivity problems and finding solutions to increase the efficiency of a workforce. If properly applied it will eliminate operational failures, project delays, problems with rework, defects as well as bringing about the timely completion of projects, their effective management, proper documentation of projects, adequate project supervision, communication and better planning.
The study included contractors, engineers, project managers and supervisors.
About the Author
Denis Leonard
Denis Leonard has a degree in construction engineering, and an M.B.A. and a Ph.D. in quality management. He is a Fellow of the American Society for Quality and has been an Examiner for the Baldrige National Quality Award Board of Examiners, a Judge on the International Team Excellence Competition, and a Lead Judge on the National Housing Quality Award. He has experience as a quality manager in the home building industry as well as construction engineer, site manager, and in training, auditing, and consulting with expertise in strategic and operational quality improvement initiatives. His work has achieved national quality, environmental, and safety management awards for clients.