The upcoming revision of ISO 9001, expected to be published as ISO 9001:2026, will include some new additions on how organizations define, manage, and lead their quality management systems. While quality professionals will manage the operational aspects, the real success of this revision depends on you as a leader.
April delivered a remarkable array of ISO developments, reaffirming the standards community’s focus on trusted AI, resilient infrastructure, sustainable systems, and better human and organizational outcomes. From quality in internships and energy audits to advancing AI governance and environmental transparency, this month reflects a dynamic intersection of trust, digitalization, and sustainability.
In April 2025, a significant update reached the Draft International Standard (DIS) stage for ISO 9000 Quality management — Fundamentals and vocabulary — the global reference for quality management fundamentals and vocabulary. While ISO 9001 defines the requirements for quality management systems (QMS), ISO 9000 frames the principles and language that shape how quality is understood and implemented, starting from the very top of the organization. Although the final publication is still pending, the DIS version already signals significant strategic shifts that executives should prepare for.
Let’s talk about management system standards. ISO has developed a diverse portfolio of management system standards designed to help organizations enhance performance, ensure compliance, and achieve strategic objectives across various domains. While ISO 9001 (quality management) and ISO 14001 (environmental management) are among the most widely recognized and implemented, there’s much more to explore. ISO’s suite of standards extends far beyond, offering structured frameworks to improve efficiency, resilience, and sustainability. In this post, you’ll find an overview of key ISO management system standards categorized by subject, showcasing how they contribute to effective and sustainable management practices.
ISO is continuously shaping the global landscape with new standards that address pressing issues in various industries. Here’s a spotlight on some key standards currently in the Draft International Standard (DIS) stage, covering brand reputation, human resources, environmental management, IT management, security, and more.