In terms of quality management, what is a key characteristic of the ISO 9001 standards?

The key characteristic of the ISO 9001 standards is its focus on guidelines for customer satisfaction. ISO 9001 is a globally recognized standard that outlines the criteria for a quality management system (QMS). One of its primary goals is to ensure consistent quality of products and services that meet customer requirements and enhance customer satisfaction. The standard emphasizes a process approach to quality management, where organizations are encouraged to understand and fulfill customer needs, which is central to achieving excellence in service and product output. This customer-centric focus ensures that continuous improvement and organizational efficacy are prioritized, leading to improved overall performance.

This emphasis on customer satisfaction distinguishes ISO 9001 from other standards that may pertain to specific technical practices or regulations that do not directly relate to the quality management system or customer engagement.