Small business standard

The small business standard is the UK's first quality standard tailored specifically to SMEs (small- and medium-sized enterprises). It makes an ideal first step on the road to ISO 9001 or the excellence model

Created by the CQI Management Consultants Register, the standard is an ideal route for organisations that currently lack the resources or do not wish to pursue certification but wish to be recognised for taking the first steps to implementing a formal quality management system. 

Based upon a practical approach to delivering business results, the standard provides a simple framework for self-assessment and performance improvement. It will be a valuable tool in business planning, given that the underpinning philosophy is that results depend on a correct combination of leadership, strategy, resources and processes, people and culture.

The resouces on this page are free to download.

Download the Standard (pdf document - 35kB)

Business evaluator

The business evaluator has been developed by the CQI's Management Consultants Register to provide a tool for small businesses that are using the CQI's small business standard. Both the standard and the evaluator are downloadable from the website free of charge.

It takes the small business through the clauses of the small business standard and provides guidance on assessing the degree to which the business meets the requirements of the standard. The final result is calculated automatically and a self-assessment score is provided.

Download Evaluator (zipped file)

If you inccur any problems downloading the above file then contact us at websupport@thecqi.org.

Review and revision

The small business standard will be subject to periodic review and revision and the Management Consultant's Register would welcome your feedback and ideas on the standard via email mcr@thecqi.org. Feedback will not be responded to but will be included in the next review of the standard.

Contact us

If you have any queries regarding the use of the standard then contact our Membership team at membership@thecqi.org.

Chartered Quality Institute

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