ISO 9000 in the Low Countries: reaching for new heights?

Compares ISO certification in Belgium and The Netherlands from a comprehensive viewpoint of organizational structure of quality assessment and certification, the certifying bodies involved and, a survey analysis according to industry sector. Provides a brief historical overview of ISO 9000, its main concepts, as well as current implementation issues. Discusses perceptions of the implementation and future trends of ISO 9000 certification in Belgium ‐ from professionals in the automotive industry, telecommunications, management consultancy, and ISO certification agencies. Highlights the growing importance of ISO certification in Europe and the world, and does away with the misconception of seeing ISO as a non‐tariff trade barrier. Claims that ISO will be complemented by specialized certifications, which may eventually lead to a single certificate in which quality, safety and environment are combined. Puts ISO certification in perspective as merely one step in the progression towards achieving business excellence.