ISO 9001 turtle diagram final guide on Edara Systems

Final Guide for ISO 9001 Turtle Diagram

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Irrespective of the number of processes that you have, it is necessary to understand how they are interrelated with each other for the activities to flow effectively. Studying the interrelationship between different processes also helps analyse possible internal structure gaps. Although several tools can help you in process management, the turtle diagram is one of the most loved. Some organisations frown upon the turtle diagram as it is simple, but it is the uncomplicated nature of this diagram that makes it highly beneficial for organisations. Let us look at the numerous benefits of the ISO 9001 turtle diagram.

What Is a Turtle Diagram?

The turtle diagram can be described as a visual representation that describes all elements of any process within an organisation. This visual tool is extremely precise and detailed, bringing together all aspects, including input, output and criteria metrics, along with other information that may be relevant to improving organisational performances. Essentially, the diagram identifies who owns the process and demonstrates how its role ties in with its performance. This tool is also utilised to identify all applicable clauses of the relevant standard and outline legal requirements related to the process, such as the ISO certification obtaining process.

Turtle Diagram ISO 9001

Is the Turtle Diagram Required by ISO 9001:2015?

ISO 9001 urges adopting the process approach in developing, implementing and improving the Quality Management System (QMS) to improve customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. Clause 4.4.1 of the standard states that organisations should determine the process necessary for a quality management system, and its application in the organisation should determine the required inputs, expected outputs, and the sequence of interaction between these processes.

Although the diagram is not a mandatory requirement by the standard, it has proved highly beneficial as it assists in administering and managing all processes. By using it, the management can meet the requirements mentioned above and determine how several processes are linked together.

Additionally, by understanding how the processes are interrelated with each other, the system can be better managed, which can lead to enhanced effectiveness and efficiency in the intended outcomes. Also, by using the diagram ISO 9001 cost through the implementation process will decrease; because it removes all the unnecessary steps.

ISO 9001:2015 process map template

What Are the Benefits of the ISO 9001 Turtle Diagram?

The ISO 9001 turtle diagram helps to understand the organisation’s overall performance by allowing us to understand the interrelationship or interdependence between system processes. Therefore, this visual tool can be used in conjunction with other flowcharts, standard operating procedures, or work instructions, thereby increasing the readability of the processes. Also it will help to understand ISO 9001 definition better. There are many benefits of utilising these visual tools, including:

Better Competence

Turtle diagrams are the perfect channel for information sharing, especially during onboarding. As a result, employees understand their position and role in the organisation. This easy-to-understand document adds value to the task, bringing the entire organisation cohesively together. Just like turtle diagram, one of the ISO 9001 benefits is adding value to the quality of an organisation and its products.

Better Auditing

Irrespective of whether it is an audit of the entire organisation or of some processes, this valuable tool helps the auditor understand the interaction between different processes. It can be used as a supporting document, simplifying an organisation’s audit trail. By looking at the document, the auditor can quickly and easily identify the areas that need improvement or are already compliant. Such diagrams can facilitate auditors in internal and external audits, guiding them towards the process that should be audited first. So, it is very beneficial in ISO 9001 audit procedure and makes the process faster.

Aligning Organisational Goals

The most significant benefit of the turtle diagram is that it aligns organisational goals to the processes. Through the appropriate usage of this visual tool, the performance of the processes can be linked to the organisation’s objectives through applicable policies. This is because turtle diagrams help the management understand how process performance can assist in achieving organisational goals such as customer satisfaction, thereby allowing them to materialise the goals through strategic business plans and policies. Hiring ISO 9001 certification consultants have the same benefit for the organisation.

Easy Identification of Waste

Another benefit of the ISO 9001 turtle diagram is that it helps in the easy identification of process waste. By looking at the diagram, you can identify which steps add value and which are redundant. This is because value-added steps and effective measures are usually the focus of the turtle diagram. Hence, glancing at the diagram makes it possible to verify where waste is being created in a process, helping the management identify stages that are distracting or reducing value.

turtle diagram ISO 9001 benefits

How to Use the ISO 9001 Turtle Diagram?

The best method to draw the turtle diagram is to use the Supplier-Input-Process-Output-Customer (SIPOC) framework. This will allow you to determine the following:

  • Who are your suppliers so that you can better manage your relationships?
  • What are your inputs so that you can compare them to predetermined criteria?
  • What are the stages in your processes so that you can identify the interactions between them?
  • What are the results of your processes so that you can learn how to measure the results and identify appropriate indicators?
  • Who are your customers so that you can highlight their requirements and expectations?

By using this method you can easily draw the ISO 9001 turtle diagram and benefit from this useful certificate.

ISO consultant Australia; Edara Systems

How Can Edara Systems Help You With ISO 9001 Turtle Diagram

An ISO 9001 turtle diagram is a simple didactic tool that helps map your processes to consistently meet your customer requirements and add value to your processes. Edara Systems is an easy-to-use platform with advanced processing and analysis tools that helps companies comprehend, document and implement their operational processes in the most cost-effective and sustainable manner. With our guidance, your journey towards ISO 9001 certification will be hassle-free. To contact us, just fill the pop-up form on this page or call our number.

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