ISO 9001 is the world’s most recognized quality management standard. The current version — ISO 9001:2015 — has guided organizations for nearly a decade. Now, work is underway on the next revision, and ISO 9001:2026 is expected to be published in the coming years. The new edition will reflect today’s business challenges and priorities — from digitalization to sustainability and resilience.
Why a New Revision?
Each ISO 9001 update adapts the standard to the realities of its time. The reasons for the anticipated 2026 revision include:
🌐 Changing business environments – more complex supply chains and global challenges.
💻 Digitalisation – the growing role of data, automation, and artificial intelligence in quality management.
🌱 Sustainability and climate – integrating environmental and social responsibility into management systems.
👥 Leadership and culture – stronger emphasis on ethics, quality mindset, and organisational resilience.
Key Expected Changes
1. Stronger Leadership Role
Organisations will need to demonstrate how leadership actively supports quality culture and ethical practices.
2. Risk and Opportunity Management
The distinction between risks and opportunities will become clearer, with practical guidance on how to manage both effectively.
3. Integration of Climate and Sustainability
Climate-related considerations and sustainability will be embedded more firmly, requiring organisations to address these factors in their management systems.
4. Digital Transformation
The new standard will recognise the impact of data, digital tools, and automation on quality management.
5. Simplicity and Clarity
The language of the standard will be simplified, and explanatory sections expanded, making it easier for both large corporations and small to medium-sized enterprises to apply.
Timeline
✔ The revision process is currently underway, and the new version is expected to be published in 2026.
✔ A transition period (approximately three years) will give organisations time to move from ISO 9001:2015 to ISO 9001:2026.
What Organisations Should Do Now
Even before the official publication, organizations can begin preparing by:
✔ Keeping their existing ISO 9001:2015 system effective and relevant.
✔ Applying digital tools to improve quality processes.
✔ Considering sustainability and resilience in planning and operations.
✔ Building a strong quality culture — starting from leadership and shared across all employees.