Open space gathering
An open space gathering, hosted by BSI, was held in June to update auditors about new findings and ideas about internal auditing. The agenda was dictated by the participants, and much of the day was devoted to wide-ranging discussions such as integrated audits and whether audit reports can be used for business performance improvement.
The new ideas had been driven by a group representing Orange, O2, Vodafone, Kingston Communications, Siemens Business Services, Pitney Bowes and BSI, which has been looking at ideas for improving internal auditing, particularly in ISO 9001-certified situations. The members of the group believe that the conventional methods and approaches of internal auditing are of limited value and effectiveness. They have investigated - and are at various stages of implementing - a range of alternative approaches.
Joce Grant, quality and customer services manager at tesa UK Ltd attended the gathering: 'It was a refreshing change to see such an open and receptive attitude from many quarters of quality. What was very encouraging about the day was that there were no closed minds, and even the subjects were chosen democratically.
As delegates, we were asked what we wanted as topics - quite an unusual approach. Also refreshing to know was that most people in the quality profession are questioning the relevance of audits now that ISO 9001:2000 has moved on dramatically, focusing more on measurement and continuous improvement. It was comforting to know that I was not alone in thinking the art of auditing has been neglected compared to the standard itself. When the question "do we need audits?" is asked, you really know times are changing.'
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
 |
 |
|
 |