Title: Applying the ISO 9000 series to higher education: an assessment model

Authors: Thomas Fiekers, Dale A. Littler, Barrie G. Dale

Addresses: Manchester School of Management, UMIST, P.O. Box 88, Sackville Street, Manchester, M60 1QD, UK. ' Manchester School of Management, UMIST, P.O. Box 88, Sackville Street, Manchester, M60 1QD, UK. ' Manchester School of Management, UMIST, P.O. Box 88, Sackville Street, Manchester, M60 1QD, UK

Abstract: This paper outlines a model for assisting educational establishments with the development of their quality management procedures and systems, using the ISO 9001 requirements as the guideline. What is required to put the ISO 9001 requirements in place is outlined, together with likely problems to be encountered and potential solutions. The paper argues the case that the model can be used to improve and develop quality management system procedures, without the need to seek formal registration to the ISO 9000 series. An assessment methodology, used as part of the model and its associated documentation, is also presented which helps an educational institution pinpoint gaps in its quality management system. Applying quality management system principles and practices to a university department is difficult, with academics viewing such a system as bureaucratic and stifling innovative flair.

Keywords: quality management systems; QMS; quality management; ISO 9001 requirements; assessment models; self-assessment; higher education; UK; United Kingdom; quality standards.

DOI: 10.1504/IJCEELL.1999.030138

International Journal of Continuing Engineering Education and Life-Long Learning, 1999 Vol.9 No.1, pp.30 - 44

Published online: 11 Dec 2009 *

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