Using Systems Engineering Principles for Developing ISO 9000 Training and Documentation Tool

Abstract

The globalization of markets has sparked the need for a universally recognized and accepted means of assessing quality. ISO 9000 is a series of standards issued by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). The standards are designed to certify consistent practice and proper documentation of company procedures. Registration to ISO 9000 is awarded after a company demonstrates conformance to the ISO 9000 requirements.<P>Documentation is a key aspect of the registration process. The most important element of the documentation requirements is the quality manual, a collection of documented procedures reflecting the daily operations of a company. The structure, content, and control of the quality manual are critical to the ISO 9000 registration process. However, problems with documentation are the primary cause of failure of an audit.<P>This thesis work addresses the pressing need to reduce documentation-related problems by designing and developing a software tool that assists users in creating a quality manual. A methodology based on systems engineering principles if followed to ensure that early requirements are understood and met. The unique highlights and contributions of the software developed in support of this thesis include: Emphasis on early analysis activities, especially user analysis, before coding of software.<P>Performance of trade-off analysis to determine the best Windows programming tool.<P>Utilization of human factors and graphical user interface (GUI) principles.<P>Incorporation of ISO 900 tutorial in software.<P>Formatted screens for easy creation of sections Examples and Help to increase users' understanding of ISO 9000 requirements