ABSTRACT
In the construction sector, worldwide, the value of formal quality management systems (QMS) is widely questioned and it is small wonder. In some countries, when the international standard was introduced, government policy simply mandated certification against the ISO 9000 family of standards for all government suppliers. Risk-based thinking is essential for establishing and then maintaining the effectiveness of a QMS. The new standard’s requirement, to investigate, collect data, analyse and understand the risks and opportunities surrounding the ever-changing context and environment in which the organization operates provides security in that it will ensure that the organization is aware of and responds to any changes to its context of operation in an effective way. The QMS that needs to be documented and implemented will be determined by the nature of the processes carried out to ensure that the product or service conforms to customer requirements.
