A PCbased system for benchmarking quality management via ISO 9000 auditing

Presents a benchmarking model for quality management systems through ISO 9000 auditing. A knowledge base of implementation principles and guidelines is established for the fulfilment of each of the ISO 9001 clauses followed by a set of inquireobserveassess checklists. A statistical model is attached to generate the average number of nonconformities or defects D of an industry. The D value thus established is the benchmark D of a particular industry in a particular business environment or country which can be updated every six months in tandem with the surveillance ISO 9000 auditing. The model enables objective decisions on certification to be made, based on whether the D value of a company falls within the D control limits.