LICQual ISO 9001:2026 QMS (Quality Management System) Transition Lead Auditor Course

By the end of this course, Applicants will be able to:

Transition Audit Framework & Certification Expectations

• Understand the structure and objectives of the ISO 9001:2026 transition audit framework.
• Identify key certification requirements and conformity assessment expectations for organizations undergoing transition.
• Analyze the roles and responsibilities of auditors, clients, and certification bodies during transition audits.
• Evaluate processes for maintaining compliance and continuous improvement throughout the transition period.
• Apply principles of audit ethics, impartiality, and professional conduct in transition assessments.
• Interpret audit evidence to align with certification criteria and regulatory requirements.

Advanced Interpretation of ISO 9001:2026 Revisions

• Examine significant changes in ISO 9001:2026 and their impact on organizational quality management systems.
• Interpret new clauses and requirements to ensure accurate audit application.
• Analyze integration opportunities between updated ISO requirements and existing organizational processes.
• Assess risk-based thinking and lifecycle approach in alignment with revised standards.
• Evaluate documentation, records, and evidence in the context of updated requirements.
• Develop strategies to communicate ISO 9001:2026 updates effectively to stakeholders.

Strategic Transition Audit Planning & Risk-Based Scoping

• Design audit plans that prioritize high-risk areas and critical organizational processes.
• Conduct risk-based scoping to focus audit efforts on areas with greatest potential impact.
• Establish audit objectives, criteria, and timelines aligned with ISO 9001:2026 requirements.
• Evaluate organizational context, objectives, and operational risks for audit readiness.
• Integrate stakeholder expectations and regulatory requirements into audit planning.
• Apply resource allocation strategies to ensure efficient and effective audits.

Execution of Transition Stage 1 & Stage 2 Audits

• Evaluate organizational readiness for ISO 9001:2026 transition by planning and conducting effective Stage 1 audits in accordance with ISO 19011 guidelines.
• Plan and execute Stage 2 transition audits to assess conformity, effectiveness, and compliance of the QMS with ISO 9001:2026 requirements.
• Apply risk-based auditing principles to verify integration of revised ISO 9001:2026 clauses within organizational processes and documented information.
• Collect and analyze objective audit evidence through interviews, sampling, process evaluation, and documentation review during transition audits.
• Identify, classify, and document nonconformities and opportunities for improvement in alignment with ISO/IEC 17021-1 and certification requirements.

AI, Data Analytics & Remote Assurance Technologies

• Explore the use of AI tools to enhance audit efficiency and data interpretation.
• Apply data analytics techniques to identify trends, anomalies, and risk areas.
• Utilize remote audit technologies for effective virtual assessments.
• Integrate digital evidence management systems for audit documentation.
• Assess the reliability and validity of AI-generated insights in audit decision-making.
• Leverage technology to improve audit coverage, consistency, and stakeholder confidence.

Audit Conclusions & Certification Recommendations

• Formulate objective audit conclusions based on evidence and findings.
• Evaluate organizational readiness for ISO 9001:2026 certification or recertification.
• Develop clear, actionable recommendations for continuous improvement.
• Communicate audit results to management and stakeholders professionally.
• Apply principles of impartiality, transparency, and ethical decision-making.
• Document final audit reports to meet certification body requirements and maintain compliance records.