ABSTRACT
As far as I can say, the success of implementing a quality management system (QMS) depends on the commitment of the top management. This is no secret. The leadership in all organizational levels should create an environment that will initiate and promote conditions in which employees feel the commitment to achieving the objectives of the organization. But how can one evaluate whether the management is truly devoted to the QMS? According to ISO 9001, the top management is required to demonstrate how it assures that the QMS is effectively implemented. This clause (Leadership) lays out the principles and expected actions from the top management regarding their commitment to the QMS. This clause should be regarded as a basis for self-evaluation of your top management’s status and its role within the QMS regarding its commitment. In order to prove its commitment, top management will supply evidences for its actions. Understanding the requirements first will allow you to understand the role of the top management in the QMS (the ISO 9001 requirements):
• The top management shall practice and demonstrate its ability to lead the organization in implementing the QMS according to the ISO 9001 Standard requirements.
