Many clients, particularly large ones operating across multiple geographies, often create their own management system. In this way, they apply their vision not only to their own business but also to the stakeholders who work on their behalf (for example, suppliers, distributors, etc.). This demonstrates to the end customer that these entities and their representatives share the same ethical values, quality standards, and commitments regarding the environment and employee safety.
A well-known example is IKEA (though not the only one). In this case, all of its direct suppliers (and sub-supliers) are audited by the parent company in accordance with the IKEA iWay management system. many other Global players do the same.
This consists of a set of standards that broadly encompass all the management systems mentioned above, but organised, assessed, and controlled in a proprietary way. Each stakeholder is assigned a ranking and commits to continuously improving its relative position.
Such requirements are usually imposed on a supplier when they agree to produce for a new client. Before starting activity, an exploratory assessment is carried out, followed by annual audits designed to drive continuous improvement.
We work with management systems across various organisations, audited by verification client teams, which allows us to avoid errors in the interpretation and implementation of standards, ensure the PDCA cycle, and shorten the learning curve.