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

Learning Objectives

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

Advanced Audit Principles & ISO 19011 / ISO 17021 Alignment

• Understand the principles of auditing and their practical application in QMS.
• Apply ISO 19011 guidelines for effective audit management.
• Align audit processes with ISO 17021 requirements for certification bodies.
• Identify and manage audit objectives, scope, and criteria efficiently.
• Evaluate organizational systems to ensure compliance with international standards.
• Develop skills to maintain audit integrity, impartiality, and confidentiality.

Interpretation of ISO 9001:2026 Requirements

• Interpret and analyze ISO 9001:2026 quality management system clauses accurately.
• Translate requirements into measurable audit criteria for organizational assessment.
• Identify gaps in compliance and recommend corrective actions.
• Understand the intent behind each ISO 9001:2026 clause for practical application.
• Evaluate process effectiveness and continual improvement mechanisms.
• Link ISO 9001:2026 requirements with organizational objectives and outcomes.

Audit Planning, Risk Assessment & Team Leadership

• Plan and schedule audits according to organizational priorities and requirements.
• Conduct comprehensive risk assessments to focus audit efforts effectively.
• Assign roles and responsibilities within the audit team for optimal performance.
• Apply leadership techniques to guide audit teams and resolve conflicts.
• Monitor progress and adjust audit strategies in real-time.
• Ensure audits are conducted efficiently while meeting compliance standards.

Conducting Stage 1 & Stage 2 Audits

• Execute Stage 1 audits to review documentation and readiness for full audits.
• Conduct Stage 2 audits to assess operational compliance and effectiveness.
• Use evidence-based techniques to evaluate organizational processes.
• Identify non-conformities and generate actionable findings.
• Facilitate interviews and observe processes for accurate audit results.
• Ensure audits meet ISO 9001:2026 Lead Auditor standards and best practices.

AI, Data Analytics & Remote Auditing Technologies

• Integrate AI and data analytics tools to enhance audit efficiency and accuracy.
• Use digital platforms for remote auditing in compliance with ISO standards.
• Analyze audit data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement.
• Apply technology-driven monitoring to support real-time decision-making.
• Enhance audit reporting with insights from advanced analytics.
• Maintain security and confidentiality in virtual auditing environments.

Audit Reporting & Certification Decision Process

• Prepare clear, concise, and professional audit reports aligned with ISO standards.
• Document non-conformities and recommendations for corrective actions.
• Evaluate audit findings to support certification decisions.
• Ensure reports meet legal, regulatory, and organizational requirements.
• Communicate audit outcomes effectively to management and stakeholders.
• Facilitate the certification process by providing evidence-based recommendations.