In this episode of The Quality Hub – Chatting with ISO Experts, host Xavier Francis sits down with Drew Markley, VP of Sales, and Renee Ferry, Customer Success Manager at Core Business Solutions, to explore why ISO 9001 certification continues to be a critical asset in today’s competitive market. The conversation addresses common concerns about cost, disruption, and complexity, highlighting how Core’s streamlined approach simplifies the certification journey. With real-world insights and nearly two decades of combined experience, Drew and Renee explain how ISO 9001 not only strengthens business practices but also acts as a form of “business insurance” during uncertain times. Whether you're seeking to improve customer satisfaction, prepare for future certifications, or stay ahead of industry demands, this episode offers a clear case for why ISO 9001 still matters more than ever. Helpful Resources: How is ISO 9001 Implemented?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting

In this episode of The Quality Hub, Chatting with ISO Experts, host Xavier Francis is joined once again by Norm Verbeck, consultant from Core Business Solutions, to dive into how ISO 9001 (QMS) and ISO 14001 (EMS) align and complement each other. They discuss the key similarities between the two standards, including shared requirements like management reviews, internal audits, corrective actions, and more. Norm explains how organizations can integrate these systems to streamline processes, which can save time and. The conversation also highlights how quality risk assessments can uncover environmental concerns, potentially guiding companies toward ISO 14001 compliance or certification. With practical examples and real-world insights, this episode is a must-listen for companies looking to enhance operational efficiency and environmental responsibility.   Helpful Resources: How is ISO 9001 Implemented?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting

In this episode of The Quality Hub, host Xavier Francis returns with Brian Smith, Director of Consulting Services at CORE, for Part 2 of their deep dive into ISO 9001 risk-based thinking—this time focusing on key metrics. They unpack how to align quality objectives with strategic goals, measure what matters, and track risk at both the organizational and process levels. Brian offers real-world examples and practical advice on setting realistic targets, leveraging existing data, and using tools like KPIs and dashboards for effective monitoring. Whether you're certified or just using ISO 9001 as a framework for improvement, this episode is packed with insights to help you strengthen your quality management system. Helpful Resources: What is Risk-Based Thinking? https://www.thecoresolution.com/what-is-risk-based-thinking How is ISO 9001 Implemented?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting  

In this episode of The Quality Hub, host Xavier Francis is joined by Brian Smith, Director of Consulting Services, to kick off a two-part series on ISO 9001 and risk-based thinking and how to apply it. They explore how the standard shifted to make risk management a central, preventive tool rather than a prescriptive requirement. Brian shares practical tools like the Improvement Plan and SWOT analysis, highlights leadership’s role in driving risk awareness, and offers real-world examples of applying risk-based thinking in business operations. Tune in to learn how to align your current practices with ISO and make smarter, data-driven decisions. Helpful Resources: What is Risk-Based Thinking? https://www.thecoresolution.com/what-is-risk-based-thinking How is ISO 9001 Implemented?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting  

In this episode of The Quality Hub, chatting with ISO experts, Xavier Francis and Suzanne Weber-Smatko continue their discussion of ISO 9001 Senior Leadership, this time focusing on how middle managers can engage senior leadership in ISO 9001 implementation. They explore key benefits like efficiency, cost savings, and risk mitigation while tackling common challenges like resistance to change and financial constraints. Learn strategies to align ISO initiatives with business goals, communicate ROI, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Tune in for practical insights on securing leadership buy-in and making ISO 9001 a strategic advantage. Helpful Resources: How is ISO 9001 Implemented?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting

In this episode of The Quality Hub, Xavier Francis and Suzanne Weber-Smatko discuss the critical role of: ISO 9001 Senior Management - Training. They explore leadership’s impact on quality management, key responsibilities, and strategies for integrating ISO principles into business goals. Suzanne highlights challenges like time constraints and resistance to change, offering solutions to drive commitment. The episode sets up next week’s discussion on ISO 9001 Senior Management - Engagement with tips for middle management in engaging leadership buy-in. Helpful Resources: How is ISO 9001 Implemented?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting

In this episode of The Quality Hub, host Xavier Francis and consultants Kaitlin Wierzbach and Kate Behr discuss how ISO 9001 fosters employee satisfaction through clear expectations, involvement, and recognition. They highlight the role of training, communication, and continuous improvement in creating a quality-driven culture where employees feel valued and engaged—all with a fun ice cream-themed twist! Helpful Resources: How is ISO 9001 Implemented?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting  

In this episode of The Quality Hub, Chatting with ISO Experts, host Xavier Francis sits down with consultants Kaitlin Wierzbach and Kate Behr from Core Business Solutions to explore how ISO 9001 impacts Organizational Culture. They discuss the challenges and benefits of implementation, how leadership plays a critical role in fostering quality culture, and the ways ISO can enhance employee engagement, communication, and efficiency. Tune in to discover how organizations can move beyond compliance to embrace continuous improvement and customer-focused excellence. Helpful Resources: How is ISO 9001 Implemented?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting  

In this episode of The Quality Hub, host Xavier Francis dives into LRQA’s recent acquisition of Core Business Solutions (CBS) with guests Ian Spaulding, CEO of LRQA, and Scott Dawson, President of CBS. They explore the history of both companies, the strategic reasons behind the partnership, and how it will enhance compliance solutions for businesses—especially small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs). With CBS’s expertise in helping small businesses navigate compliance and LRQA’s global reach, the two companies aim to expand technology-driven solutions for certification, cybersecurity, and supply chain risk management. Tune in to hear how this collaboration is set to reshape the future of compliance support worldwide. Helpful Resources: Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting

In this episode of The Quality Hub, Chatting with ISO Experts, host Xavier Francis is joined by Core Business Solutions' sales and customer success leaders, Kevin Metz and Renee Ferry, to discuss the power of ISO certification for small businesses. From machine shops to government contractors, they explore how ISO 9001 and other standards can streamline operations, improve quality, and open new business opportunities. They break down common challenges, misconceptions, and the benefits of certification, all while sharing real-world insights and success stories. Tune in to learn how ISO can give your small business the competitive edge it needs!

In this episode of "The Quality Hub," host Xavier Francis is joined by Norm Verbeck, a consultant from Core Business Solutions, to explore the distinctions between ISO 9001 certification and compliance. Norm discusses the rigorous process of certification, and contrasts it with compliance, where companies internally manage adherence to ISO standards without external audits. This episode sheds light on the practical steps for achieving compliance, the cost-effectiveness of compliance versus certification, and the significant boost in reputation and marketability that certification offers. Norm also highlights how certification is often required, and how it can be a crucial step for businesses looking to enhance their international recognition. Helpful Resources: ISO 9001 Certification VS. Compliance Article: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-compliance-vs-certification For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting

On this episode of the Quality Hub: Chatting with ISO Experts, host Xavier Francis continues the discussion with Suzanne Weber-Smatko and Murphy Shaw on quality management methodologies beyond ISO 9001. They explore Total Quality Management (TQM) as a culture-driven framework for continuous improvement, Lean as a waste-reduction methodology focused on efficiency, and the importance of management and employee engagement in sustaining quality initiatives. The episode highlights how integrating methods like Six Sigma, TQM, or Lean can enhance ISO 9001 systems, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. The conversation emphasizes leadership’s role in driving these improvements and how businesses can strategically adopt different approaches for better efficiency and quality. Helpful Resources: What is a Mature QMS?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/quality-management-system-maturity Compliance vs. Certification:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-compliance-vs-certification For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting

In this episode of the Quality Hub: Chatting with ISO Experts, host Xavier Francis discusses ISO 9001 vs other Quality Management Systems - What's the Difference (Part 1) with Suzanne Weber-Smatko and Murphy Shaw from Core Business Solutions. They explore ISO 9001’s role in standardizing processes for consistency and improvement, comparing it to industry-specific standards like ISO 13485 for medical devices, AS 9100 for aerospace, and 21 CFR Part 820, an FDA regulation. The discussion also covers Six Sigma, a data-driven methodology for reducing defects, highlighting its individual certification structure versus ISO 9001’s organizational certification. The episode emphasizes how businesses can integrate multiple quality systems for better efficiency and compliance, setting the stage for Part 2.   Helpful Resources:   What is a Mature QMS?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/quality-management-system-maturity Compliance vs. Certification:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-compliance-vs-certification For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting  

In this episode of The Quality Hub, Chatting with ISO Experts, host Xavier Francis welcomes back Suzanne Strasser, VP of Consulting and Development, to explore the PDCA Cycle (Plan-Do-Check-Act) and its vital role in ISO 9001. They discuss how this structured, iterative method drives continuous improvement by aligning with key ISO 9001 clauses. From setting goals and testing solutions to analyzing outcomes and implementing changes, PDCA helps businesses enhance efficiency, mitigate risks, and meet customer expectations. They also emphasize the importance of focusing on real outcomes rather than rigidly following methodologies. Tune in to learn how applying PDCA within ISO 9001 can strengthen your quality management system and drive meaningful improvements in your organization! Helpful Resources: Compliance vs. Certification:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-compliance-vs-certification   For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015   Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com   A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources   ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting      

On this episode of the Quality Hub Podcast hosted by Xavier Francis, guests Brian Smith and Joe Hill discuss ISO 9001, Clause 7.1.5. They explore how calibration frequency should be determined based on risk levels, such as manufacturer's guidelines, regulatory requirements, and other factors. They stress the need for frequent calibration in high-risk scenarios and discuss the importance of using accredited services for calibration. The episode emphasizes the consequences of neglecting proper calibration and highlights the difference between verification and certification of equipment. Helpful Resources: ISO 9001 Clause 7.1.5:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/clause-7-1-5-iso-9001-explained   ISO 9001 Clause 7:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-clause-7   For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015   Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com   A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources   ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting

On this episode of the Quality Hub Podcast hosted by Xavier Francis, guests Brian Smith and Joe Hill discuss ISO 9001 Clause 7.1.5 on calibration within a Quality Management System (QMS). They elaborate on the importance of calibration in ensuring the accuracy of tools and equipment used in monitoring and measuring product quality. They discuss the specifics of the clause, including requirements for monitoring resources, measurement traceability, and the responsibilities organizations have towards calibration. They also cover how organizations should handle equipment that is out of calibration, and the proper management and retention of calibration records. The episode aims to clarify the clause's provisions and offer practical advice on maintaining compliance and ensuring measurement reliability within a QMS. Helpful Resources:   ISO 9001 Clause 7.1.5:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/clause-7-1-5-iso-9001-explained   ISO 9001 Clause 7:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-clause-7   For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015   Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com   A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources   ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting  

In this episode of the Quality Hub podcast, Xavier Francis speaks with Suzanne Strausser, and Brian Reich as they discuss the key updates and implications of the 2022 version of ISO 27001. They focus on key changes such as better alignment with other ISO standards, a reduction in Annex A controls, the addition of new controls, and more. They speak to the new updates emphasizing a streamlined, risk-based approach, making the standard more accessible to smaller organizations with simpler IT environments. The speakers highlight challenges in transitioning to the new version of the standard, including reassessing existing controls and addressing gaps, and how the updated version enhances cybersecurity by focusing on proactive monitoring and secure practices.   Helpful Resources:   https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-27001   https://www.thecoresolution.com/who-needs-iso-27001-certification   For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015   Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com   A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources   ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting    

In this episode of the Quality Hub, Xavier Francis, and Norm Verbeck discuss the critical importance of workforce engagement in driving business success and improving your QMS. They discuss the benefits of engaged employees such as lower burnout, staying longer, overall performance, and more. They also discuss key strategies to gain better workforce engagement, including robust onboarding, ongoing training, effective leadership, and more. Aligning individual and departmental roles with organizational goals ensures employees understand their contributions, while face-to-face in-person or virtual interactions build trust and cohesion. The discussion highlights that workforce engagement is beneficial and essential for organizational success.   Helpful Resources:   QMS:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/quality-management-system-maturity   For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015   Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com   A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources   ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting

In this episode of "The Quality Hub," host Xavier Francis discusses AS9100 and AS9120 with Suzanne Weber-Smatko and Bruce Newman from Core Business Solutions. Described as “ISO 9001 on steroids,” AS standards add stricter requirements for documentation, traceability, product safety, and more. They emphasize operational risks and allow employee error to be the root cause of corrective actions. Certification offers significant ROI by unlocking contracts, reducing waste, and demonstrating a commitment to quality. Suzanne highlights misconceptions around traceability, while Bruce shares unique aerospace testing practices overall, AS standards ensure safety, reliability, and business growth for aerospace companies. Helpful Resources:   The AS Standard:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/as9100   For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015   Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com   A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources   ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting

In this episode of the Quality Hub, Xavier Francis and Scott Dawson discuss strategies for effective annual business planning, emphasizing the importance of setting clear priorities, staying adaptive to market trends, and leveraging technology, to enhance productivity and customer service. They highlight the growing need for personalization and responsiveness in customer interactions, and then the conversation also delves into employee engagement, advocating for treating employees like customers by offering flexibility, fostering continuous learning, and providing recognition. Finally, Scott underscores the significance of making annual planning a routine process to maintain focus and achieve incremental improvements year over year. Helpful Resources:   For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015   Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com   ISO 9001 Standards: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-90012015-standard-1   A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources   ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting