Articles by steve clarkeThe Fuelcard People has become the first registerd fuel card supplier to achieve ISO 9001 quality certification, following independent assessment of its quality management system. It has encouraged others to follow its lead in meeting internationally recognised standards.
Steve Clarke, The Fuelcard People general manager, said: ?Fuel card users increasingly demand quality of service alongside savings and security, so investing in formal certification of our quality systems seemed an obvious step. We chose to undergo the rigour of independent ISO 9001 assessment for two reasons. Firstly, it is a well-established, internationally recognised standard. More importantly, many of our customers will have been through the same process with their own organisations and will appreciate what it takes to meet the standard.?
ISO 9001 is part of the ISO 9000 family of international standards for quality management systems. It superseded the BS 5750 standard in the UK more than 20 years ago, focusing on an organisation?s quality management system for operating processes. The benefits generally include easier performance measurement, improved service quality, reduced waste and fewer customer complaints. It is not unusual for ISO 9001 certified organisations to require their suppliers to hold equivalent certification.
Steve Clarke said: ?We were surprised to be told that no other fuel card supplier has yet achieved certification. With fuel card users increasingly concerned about service, perhaps they should be asking suppliers about their plans to meet recognised standards. Service quality is certainly not something that should be taken for granted. For the sake of our industry?s reputation, we would encourage others to follow our lead.?