Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) form a critical part of the South African economy, providing employment opportunities, economic growth and industry innovations. Ranging across almost all industries and sectors, SMEs are a common feature of the economic landscape. ISO International Standards are beneficial for businesses of any size and sector, and can ultimately assist SMEs in delivering quality goods and services and achieving business stability.
SMEs in South Africa
Estimates for the number of small and medium-sized enterprises in South Africa have fluctuated between a quarter of a million and more than 5 million, with other reports pegging the number at 2.2 million enterprises. While these numbers do vary greatly, it is evident that SMEs are a crucial component of the national economy. Recent reports have stated that SMEs deliver 28% of all jobs in the country.
With fewer resources, employees and certainty, SMEs are more at risk for failure and economic losses. SMEs are, however, very valuable to economic success, and proffer many benefits. SMEs promote diversification of economic activities, promote innovation, develop entrepreneurial skills and support sustainable development.
With experienced auditors in more than 65 countries and across all business sectors, DQS South Africa is your one-stop-shop for business solutions. Our holistic approach integrates assessments, audits, certifications, inspections and evaluation in order to guide organizations toward sustainable success. Let’s make it happen!
What is ISO?
ISO refers to the International Organization for Standardization, which develops international standards in conjunction with experts from all walks of life. ISO standards cover everything from food safety to agriculture, healthcare, manufactured products and more.
Why standards?
Standards are documents published by ISO with requirements, specifications, guidelines or characteristics based on international best practice. Standards help businesses globally to apply consistent “standards” in ensuring that materials, products, processes and services are fit for purpose, which then boost trade and ultimately increase success for industries across the world. Standards ensure that products and services are safe, reliable and high-quality and that businesses increase productivity while minimising mistakes and waste. As international standards enable products from different markets to be directly compared, they facilitate companies in entering new markets and aid the development of fair global trade.
How ISO standards benefit SMEs
- Build customer confidence that your products are safe and reliable
- Reduce costs and drive growth
- Gain market access across the world
- Enable SMEs to meet regulation requirements at lower costs
- Open up export markets
- Ensure level playing fields
- Provide best business practices
- Improve the quality of goods and services
- Enhance credibility
- Help companies comply with regulations
Which standards are right for my organisation?
ISO has thousands of International Standards, which cover all aspects of business and technology. Here is a list of some of the most popular standards:
- ISO 9001 Quality Management
- ISO 14001 Environmental Management
- ISO 45001 Occupational Health & Safety Management
- ISO 22000 Food Safety Management
- ISO 28000 Supply Chain security Management
- ISO 50001 Energy Management
- ISO 27001 Information Security Management
For more information about the standards best suited to your organisation and its specific needs, please contact DQS South Africa. DQS has years of experience in providing certification, assurance and training based on international ISO standards. It also participates in the majority of Technical Committees involved in the writing of these standards.
DQS is committed to sharing up to date, relevant news. For more information about international standards or the certification process, please contact DQS. DQS South Africa is your local business solutions partner, offering solutions that work for your sector. We form part of an international network dedicated to ensuring compliance and business conformity. For any questions about our services or to contact us, please visit dqs.co.za.
