Implementing an Integrated Management System (IMS) - The strategic approach

Understand how to implement an IMS and how it can benefit your organization

Achieving certification to multiple ISO standards can be time-consuming and costly. An IMS incorporates all of an organization’s processes and systems so that they work under – and toward – one set of policies and objectives. With an IMS, risks and opportunities are no longer managed in silos within the organization, but with one unified or integrated approach from the leadership team.

Ideal for the C-suite, directors, compliance managers, auditors, and trainers, this guide discusses the benefits of an IMS, and the strategies you should consider before implementing one. It references a number of standards that can be integrated, and stresses the need for senior management to lead the implementation by deciding upon objectives and which standards to include.

What you will learn

• What an IMS is – even if you have no prior knowledge, this book will help you envisage what an IMS is and how it works
• How to develop a strategy for IMS implementation – this book emphazises the importance of effectively planning your IMS implementation by having senior management set objectives to encourage a unified approach
• The benefits of an IMS – this book explains how an IMS can benefit your organization, for example by avoiding duplication of effort as management systems are no longer working in silos, reducing the number of audits required, and making more effective use of senior management’s time

Key features

• An easy-to-follow introduction to an IMS, and advice on IMS implementation strategies
• Discusses the challenges you may face during implementation and how to prepare for and overcome them
• Advice on audits and IMS certification