Most new users obtain measurable benefits early in the process of deploying the standard requirements in their operations. These initial benefits are generally due to improvements in their organization and internal communication. The benefits must be strengthened through effective internal auditing and management review of system performance. Like all systems, it either improves or becomes less effective. It does not remain static for long.

When you adopt ISO 9001:2000, you must strive for the satisfaction of your customers and the continual improvement of your quality management system. Continual improvement is a process of increasing the effectiveness of your organization to fulfill your quality policy and your quality objectives. ISO 9001:2000 requires that you plan and manage the processes necessary for the continual improvement of your quality management system. ISO 9004:2000 provides information that will be helpful in going beyond ISO 9001:2000 to improving the efficiency of your operation. It is recommended that you obtain data from various sources, both internal and external, to assess the appropriateness of your quality system goals. This information can also be used to improve the performance of your processes.

Some organizations may expand their management systems by extending the ISO 9001:2000 structure to include the requirements of ISO 14001:1996, Environmental management systems. The structural and organizational requirements of the two management systems have been designed to be compatible.