Clause 4 Context of the Organization

4.1 Understanding the organization and its context

Clause Criteria

The organization shall determine external and internal issues that are relevant to its purpose and that affect its ability to achieve the intended result(s) of its management system.

Explanation

The intent of this clause is for the organization to specify the requirements for a high-level (e.g. strategic) understanding of the important issues that can affect its ability to operate.

Issues can include important topics for the organization, issues and concerns for debate and discussion, or indeed changes to circumstances.
The knowledge gained from the analysis and evaluation of applicable issues, is then used to guide the development, implementation and maintenance of the management system.

Chief Explainer:

Phil Byrne