WASHINGTON—As manufacturing companies transform existing quality management systems and environmental management systems to meet new standards and improve cost savings, quality organizations are tasked with ensuring that transitions are efficient and productive. A study from research and consulting firm Best Practices LLC reveals certification trends and practices, quality organization structures and the benefits of single registrar relationships.

The study, Quality Trends & Certification, profiles 37 manufacturing companies from the electronic, chemical, technology and healthcare industries.

Of the companies surveyed, 75% of those currently certified to ISO 9000: 1994 are planning to transition to ISO 9001: 2000 before December 15, 2003. About 60% of the companies surveyed employ a single registrar for the entire business. Benefits include increased cost savings, greater convenience and increased consistency.