ISO certification in 90 days: the complete roadmap
9001, 14001, 45001, 27001, 22000… How to structure, deploy and succeed in your certification at the first audit — without paralysing your teams.
In 30 seconds
An ISO certification is not 'documented', it is managed like a project. With an accurate gap analysis, a system tailored to your reality (not a paperwork factory) and a mock audit, 90 days is sufficient for most SMEs — with possible CSF funding.
1. Choose the right framework
- ISO 9001 — Quality
- ISO 14001 — Environment
- ISO 45001 — Occupational health and safety
- ISO 37301 — Compliance
- ISO 27001 — Information security
- ISO 22000 / FSSC — Food Industry
- IATF 16949 — Automotive
- ISO 13485 — Medical devices
2. The 5 phases, from diagnosis to certification
Gap analysis
Gap analysis vs the framework, process mapping.
Design
QMS tailored to your reality, useful document control.
Deployment
Field implementation, training, records.
Internal audit
Mock audit, management review, corrective actions.
Certification
Stage 1 & 2 audit by the organisation — issuance of the certificate.
3. The timeline J0 – J90
Scoping & diagnosis
Scope, gap analysis, planning, risk identification.
System construction
Policy, processes, useful procedures, indicators, risk control.
Deployment & evidence
Field application, records, documentation maturity setup.
Internal audit & review
Mock audit, gap treatment, management review.
Certification audit
Stage 1 audit (documentary) followed by stage 2 (field) — certificate.
7 mistakes that lead to audit failure
- Create a 'paper factory' disconnected from the field.
- Skip the initial gap analysis.
- Neglecting risk & opportunity analysis (clause 6).
- No internal audit or management review before the audit.
- Incomplete or untraceable records (evidence).
- Quality objectives not measurable.
- Lack of management involvement (leadership, clause 5).
4. Why TargetUp
Our consultants are IRCA Lead Auditors and support across 12 ISO frameworks with Support until certification is obtained. We build a useful system (not bureaucratic), fundable via the CSF, and we remain by your side on the day of the audit.
Receive this guide + the ISO audit checklist
Your email: we will send you the detailed guide and a preparation checklist for the audit. Free eligibility diagnosis available.
Launch your certification with a Lead Auditor
Free gap analysis: tailored framework, realistic planning and CSF funding.
Book my assessmentWarning: timelines depend on your size, your initial maturity level and the targeted framework. This guide is indicative and educational; TargetUp establishes your actual roadmap during a personalised diagnosis.