Gaining ISO 9001: The experience of Oxford Journals

Abstract

Whilst experience of ISO 9001 is relatively commonplace in the printing industry, few publishers have implemented the standard to any significant degree. This case study explains why and how Oxford Journals went about obtaining ISO 9001:2008 certification. The overall objective of gaining this certification was to create a standardized framework for the processes by which high-quality products were created and service given, to the satisfaction of all customers. Oxford Journals wanted to demonstrate to societies, editors, authors, and subscribers that there was a robust methodology in place for the management of quality in relation to its operational processes. This case study documents what Oxford Journals had to do in order to gain this certification, the timescales involved, how the project was initiated, the preparations for the external audit, and how the ongoing maintenance of the certification is now handled. It also considers some lessons that were learned during the certification process. © Maxine Smith 2010.