ISO-9000 : effects on the global marketplace and contract relations with the U.S. Department of Defense

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to determine how the direction toward standardizing quality control systems woridwide, specifically ISO-9000 criteria, is affecting business procedures both internally (operations) and externally (global marketing). A methndology for determining current opinions and business practices concerning ISO-9000 certification was developed by reviewing the most current literature avallable and through personal interviews with various quality systems managers of ISO-9000 certified companies. Areas of focus throughout the research were: ISO-9000 capabilities for company certification, current U.S. Government initiatives concerning standardization and contracting, the cost-benefit objectives of certification, real-time perceptions of certified companies and the effects that lS0-9000 has had on global marketing of products. The range of data were analyzed and conclusions drawn with respect to current international conditions Cf standardization and how Government contract actions incorporate non-M!LSPEC quality systems. Recommendations include: immediate update of the FAR to incorporate the guidance issued by the Secretary of Defense concerning use of commercial quality assurance systems in Government contract actions and follow-on studies on the continued effects of international standardization as the IOS proceeds into the next century.