By Tan Sim Bee, Senior Certification Manager, GICG
The 2026 ISO 9001 Revision: What to Expect and How to Prepare
As organizations continue to operate in an increasingly complex and competitive environment, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is revising the ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System standard to ensure it remains current and impactful. While the final changes have yet to be confirmed, several key areas are anticipated to be updated. This revision marks an important milestone for businesses worldwide, underscoring the importance of staying ahead in quality management and continuous improvement.
Why ISO 9001:2015 Must Evolve – What to Expect in the ISO 9001:2026 Revision
To remain relevant in a rapidly changing global landscape, the ISO 9001:2015 standard must adapt to address emerging trends and challenges.
According to a report by ISO TC 176/SC2/WG29, the upcoming revision will introduce enhancements related to resilience, supply chain management, change management, sustainability, risk management, and organizational knowledge.
Although the full scope of ISO 9001:2026 is still being finalized, several key focus areas are anticipated:
- Sustainability
- AI Governance
- Environmental Responsibility
- Customer Satisfaction
- Integration of Emerging Technologies
The 2026 revision represents a significant evolution, aligning ISO 9001 with Industry 4.0. It aims to offer clearer guidance on incorporating advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence into quality management systems.
Transition timeline
The transition to ISO 9001:2026 is anticipated to take place over a three-year period. The Draft International Standard (DIS) is expected by June 2025, with the final version scheduled for publication in the second half of 2026. Once published, organizations will have a three-year timeframe to adopt the updated requirements, ensuring a smooth and effective transition process.
Next Steps to Prepare for ISO 9001:2026
- Stay Updated on ISO 9001:2026 Developments – Monitor ongoing changes and expert commentary to stay ahead of the transition. Visit the GICG website regularly for updates and participate in GICG-hosted training sessions and webinars.
- Assess Your Current QMS Early – Once the Draft International Standard (DIS) is released, conduct a gap analysis to evaluate how well your existing Quality Management System aligns with the upcoming ISO 9001:2026 requirements. GICG is available to support this process by performing a preliminary assessment to identify gaps between the current and revised standards, helping you determine your organization’s readiness for a successful transition.
- Create a Strategic Action Plan – Begin preparing now by reviewing anticipated changes, involving leadership, and planning the necessary adjustments to your QMS well before the new standard is implemented.
