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Integrated management systems combine different standards, such as ISO 27001, ISO 9001 and ISO 14001, into one coherent system. This means that organisations manage their quality, information security and environmental management together rather than separately. This approach reduces administrative burdens, saves costs and ensures better cooperation between departments.
What exactly are integrated management systems?
An integrated management system (IMS) merges several international standards into one coherent management system. Instead of maintaining separate systems for quality (ISO 9001), information security (ISO 27001) and environment (ISO 14001), you create one streamlined system that covers all requirements.
Organisations choose integration because many standards contain overlapping elements. Think of document management, risk analyses, internal audits and management reviews. By merging these common processes, you avoid duplication and create more consistency in your organisation.
The main benefits of an integrated approach are more efficient processes, less bureaucracy and better communication between different disciplines. Employees no longer have to switch between different systems and procedures, which reduces the risk of errors and increases productivity.
What concrete benefits do integrated management systems offer?
Cost savings constitute the most immediate benefit of integration. You need to spend less time maintaining separate documentation, training employees and conducting audits. One integrated audit can assess multiple certifications simultaneously, significantly reducing audit costs.
More efficient processes are created by combining overlapping activities. For example, information security risk assessments can be linked to quality risks, giving a more complete picture of organisational risks. This leads to better decision-making and more targeted improvement actions.
The administrative burden decreases significantly because you maintain one set of procedures, one document structure and one reporting system. Employees understand the system better because everything is logically connected. Compliance also becomes easier because all requirements are managed and monitored in conjunction.
How can organisations effectively combine different standards?
Start by identifying common elements between standards. For example, all management systems require policies, objectives, risk assessments and internal audits. These elements can be integrated directly without substantive changes.
ISO 27001 combines excellently with ISO 9001 because both standards require process-based thinking. Quality processes can be extended to include information security aspects, while security measures contribute to better quality. ISO 14001 (environment) and ISO 45001 (safety) also integrate well because they use similar risk assessments.
Practical steps for integration include: first fully implement one standard as a base, then identify overlapping elements of other standards, develop common procedures and add specific requirements as extensions. Ensure that all standard requirements are explicitly covered even after integration.
What challenges do organisations face when integrating?
Complexity is the biggest challenge when integrating management systems. Different standards have specific terminology and approaches that do not always flow naturally together. Employees can get confused by the combination of different requirements and procedures.
Resistance to change often occurs because employees are used to existing ways of working. Specialists in different fields sometimes fear that their expertise will be diluted in an integrated system. Good communication about the benefits and targeted training are essential to overcome this resistance.
Audit complexity increases because auditors need to have knowledge of multiple standards. Not all audit organisations can perform integrated audits, which limits choice. Maintaining certifications with different expiry dates also requires careful planning and administration.
When is it wise to opt for integrated systems?
Organisations with multiple certifications or ambitions to implement different standards benefit most from integration. Companies of 50 to 100 employees and above usually have sufficient complexity to realise the benefits, while smaller organisations may not achieve enough economies of scale.
Sectors such as healthcare, ICT and manufacturing are ideal for integrated systems because they often have multiple compliance requirements. Organisations working with sensitive data benefit from combining ISO 27001 certification with quality standards for a holistic approach to risk management.
It is wise to seek professional guidance when setting up integrated systems. Experienced audit partners can help identify synergies and avoid pitfalls. For more information on how we support organisations with integrated management systems, please contact with us for a personal consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the first steps to set up an integrated management system?
Start by identifying your current certifications and desired standards. Then identify overlapping processes such as document management, risk assessments and internal audits that can be combined into common procedures.
How do you prevent employees getting confused during the transition to an integrated system?
Invest in targeted training and clear communication about the benefits of integration. Involve specialists from different fields in the development process and ensure gradual implementation with sufficient support.
What are the costs involved in implementing integrated management systems?
Initial costs include consultancy, training and system adjustments. This investment is usually recouped within 1-2 years through lower audit costs, less administration and more efficient processes due to the elimination of duplication.
Why do some organisations still choose to keep standards separate?
Smaller organisations may lack economies of scale, while highly specialised firms may want to maintain a focus on individual standards. Limited availability of qualified integrated auditors may also be a consideration.
