Introduction

This topic provides a wide range of management systems certification services in all industries and service sectors in accordance with Global Standards above. GCC also carries out certification of integrated management systems according to two or more standards.

Time to complete

The typical certification process may last from six to twelve months.

Factors affecting completion

The amount of time it takes to complete the certification process can depend on several factors, such as:

• commitment of management

• complexity and size of the organization

• project management skills of the project team

• documentation skills of the project team

• number and complexity of existing processes, and

• amount and adequacy of existing documentation.

Stages in the process 

The table below describes the stages of the typical certification process.

Stage

Name

What Happens?

1

Letter of Intent

Candidate institutions/organizations begin the process by submitting a Letter of Intent to the attention of the GCC.

This letter should include an Executive Summary which addresses the following:

§   The complete organization name, organizational structure and points of contact at the applicant organization [please include name(s), title(s), address, telephone number(s) and e-mail address(es)].

§   The reason why the organization is seeking GCC Certification at this time;

§   The Management System(s) needed in accordance with Global Standards above

§   A statement of the mission and vision of the organization

§   The approximate date when the applicant intends to submit its Gap-analysis report.

2

Strategic Planning

Organization shall:

§      display strong commitment and support for the certification effort,

§      form a project team,

§      establish a timeline, and

§      assess training needs regarding Global Standard and organizational background,

3

Gap Analysis

Corrective action teams evaluate the

§   existing Management System and documentation against the requirement, and

§   effective implementation of the Management System regarding Global Standard.

4

Corrective action

Corrective action teams organization changes in the Management System as identified in Stage 3.

5

Documentation and Records

Corrective action teams

§   implement a document structure and control system

§   organization a control of the records process

§   revise documents as necessary, and

§   provide training for changes, additions, and other topics as identified in Stage 2.

6

Implementation

Organization shall:

§   implement and monitor all changes in the Management System

§   ensures all gaps identified in Stage 3 are closed, and

§   maintains records of all changes.

7

Pre-Certification Audit

GACC Board ensures all process controls and documentation are effectively implemented according to the requirement.

8

GCC Board Documentation Review

GCC Board reviews the Management System manual and any other requested documents  as the advance organizer of conformity assessment audit

9

Site Preparation

Top management prepares the organization for the GACC Board and the conformity assessment audit

10

Certification Audit

GACC Board reviews the Management System and documentation to determine if the Management System meets the requirements according to Global Standard and to determine the effectiveness of the Management System in the meeting of objectives.