ISO 9001 in Mexico: Real Profitability or Costly Formality? Strategic keys for the 2026 version
Keywords:
Benefits, ISO 9001:2026, Multivariate analysis, Profitability.Abstract
This paper analyzes whether ISO 9001 certification actually represents a profitable transformation for those organizations that implement and obtain certification. Forty-five companies in north-central Mexico were analyzed. A quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional design was used to measure the real assessments and advantages in various key variables such as customer satisfaction, process performance, profits, and sales growth. The indicators evaluated showed significant improvements in all of them, although these were determined by various causes, including the maturity of the management system, the sector, and the reasons that led the company or institution to seek certification. In addition, a comparative analysis (which complements and anticipates) was carried out between the current version of ISO 9001:2015 and the anticipated changes in ISO 9001:2026. Key features are highlighted, including digital transformation, sustainability, and ethical leadership. In conclusion, it was found that ISO 9001 certainly generates value; however, this is only the case when implementation is carried out from a dynamic perspective and is aligned with the competencies that are present in today's scenario. Suggestions are presented that will make the transition to the new version of the standard less difficult, in addition to extending the benefits.
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