Integrated Management System (IMS)

An integrated management system (IMS) is a management system, which integrates all relevant components of a business into one coherent system so as to enable the optimal achievement of its business objectives. The integrated approach requires combining all the internal business management practices into one system. For the different systems to be properly integrated, rather than simply being separate systems joined together, there have to be effective linkages so that the boundaries between processes are seamless. The fundamental components of the system include the organisation, resources and processes. Therefore, people, equipment and business culture are part of the system as well as the documented policies and practices.

What can be integrated?

Any system, which is required by the effective running of a business, can be integrated either totally or partially under a unified management structure. In essence any system, which has an impact on overall business performance should be part of the integrated management system.

What is required to ensure effective integrated management systems?

To ensure effective systems, the following functions must be performed:

• Risk Assessment- this should address customer perceptions, health & safety risks, environmental concerns & impacts and process failure modes. By having a common approach it will be easier to compare risks occurring in different parts of the business.
• Norms & Regulations Management – to capture norms and regulations with respect to product specifications, environment and health & safety and their impacts on the business.
• Continual Improvement Management – this should focus on specific improvement programmes related to quality, health & safety and environment.
• Stakeholders Awareness – this should address needs of both customers, staff and general public with respect to quality, health & safety and environment

What types of systems can be integrated?

All systems relevant to the business, whether certifiable or otherwise, can be included. These could include: Quality (ISO 9001); Environment (ISO 14001); Occupational Health & Safety (OHSAS 18001 & BS 8800); Food Safety & Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP); European Directives and CE Markings; Information Security (ISO17799); Quality System Requirements for Automotive Industry Suppliers (ISO/TS 16949 & QS 9000); Quality System Requirements for Telecommunications Industry Suppliers (TL 9000); and Business Excellence Model (BEM).

How can we help?

System Study, GAP Analysis, Documentation (and Preparation of Quality Manual, Instructions, Formats, Procedures), Records Implementation, Trainings, Internal Audits & MRM, Guidance through a Successful Audit.

Thomas Poutas supports you towards following ISO Standards Certification and Integration:

• Quality
• Environment
• Energy Saving
• Food & Beverage Quality & Safety
• Information Security
• Occupational Health & Safety
• Accreditation