We are pleased to announce the publication of ISO 9001:2026, the latest edition of the internationally recognized standard for Quality Management Systems (QMS).
Building on the foundation established by ISO 9001:2015, the new edition reflects the changing business environment and the growing need for organizations to manage quality in a more structured, adaptable and forward-looking way.
What’s new in ISO 9001:2026?
The revised standard maintains the core principles of quality management while introducing important updates and clarifications:
- Greater emphasis on quality culture and ethical behaviour
Reinforcing the role of leadership and organizational culture in achieving quality objectives. - Clearer approach to risks and opportunities
Strengthening how organizations identify and address factors that may affect the intended results of the QMS. - Enhanced focus on change management
Helping organizations better plan and manage changes that can influence the effectiveness of their Quality Management System. - Climate change considerations
Climate change is now explicitly reflected within the standard, building on the ISO climate action amendments introduced in 2024. - Improved alignment with other ISO management system standards
The revised structure supports greater consistency and easier integration with other management systems.
What does this mean for organizations?
For organizations already certified to ISO 9001:2015, the new edition represents an opportunity to review and further strengthen their existing Quality Management Systems.
The revision does not replace the fundamental principles of ISO 9001. Instead, it provides greater clarity and updates the framework to reflect how organizations operate in today’s increasingly dynamic environment.
Organizations should begin reviewing the changes, assessing their current systems and planning the necessary steps for transition to ISO 9001:2026.
Transition to ISO 9001:2026
Organizations certified against ISO 9001:2015 will have a transition period to move to the new edition. The transition is expected to take place over a period of up to three years following publication of the revised standard.
This provides organizations with sufficient time to understand the revised requirements, identify any gaps and implement the necessary changes within their Quality Management Systems.
How e-Cert can support you
As an accredited Certification Body, e-Cert is ready to support organizations throughout their transition to ISO 9001:2026 through:
- Gap analysis and transition planning
- Certification and transition audits
- Guidance on the revised requirements
- Ongoing audit and certification support
ISO 9001:2026 marks the next step in the evolution of quality management — helping organizations remain focused on customer needs, organizational performance and continual improvement.
For further information or support with your transition, contact e-Cert at info@e-cert.al.
