At BSI, we have a portfolio of over 100,000 standards available on the BSI Knowledge platform, and they range from technical specifications to broader guidance documents, covering a wide range of subject matter. For example, you can download a standard that provides you with the requirements needed for manufacturing a specific product, or a standard that helps you to reduce your energy consumption.
Due to the variety in their scope, different standards offer organizations a huge range of different benefits, and our research shows that most standards users agree that standards have added value to their business (BSI Standard Users research project, 2022).
Here, we’ll explore common benefits of standards and translate them into real-life situations, so you can see exactly how standards work and the positive impact they could have on your organization – no matter its size.
Standards increase productivity
Productivity is a key driver of standard adoption.
In fact, 20% of standard users say that improving productivity was the main reason they considered implementing a standard in the first place, whilst 35% reported experiencing improvements in productivity after implementing a standard (BSI Standard Users research project, 2022).
Organizations can experience increases in productivity as a direct result of implementing standards to streamline their operations, or indirectly, as a by-product of making changes elsewhere.
For example, if you’re manufacturing a product, you can use standards to assess how you operate, identify areas on your production line that need improving, and make continuous improvements that can result in time and cost savings.
Some management standards that target one area, such as the popular information security standard ISO/IEC 27001, may result in increased productivity as an added benefit. This standard not only boosts data security but by strengthening and improving IT systems, it makes it easier to find and file documents with processes in place for everyone to follow. In turn, this encourages everyone to work more productively.
Standards support greater growth and agility
Standards support greater growth and agility for SMEs by providing frameworks that enhance efficiency, ensure quality, facilitate market access, and foster innovation.
Adhering to international standards allows your organization to enter global markets more easily, as your products and services meet universally accepted criteria, and certification processes add credibility and trust.
Some standards also enable streamline operations, reduce waste, and improve resource utilization, while also reducing costs associated with training, production errors, and regulatory compliance. They provide a foundation for building innovative solutions, ensuring compatibility and integration with existing systems, and allow SMEs to scale consistently.
Additionally, standards ensure products and services meet quality benchmarks, reducing the risk of defects, enhancing customer satisfaction, and ensuring regulatory compliance.
Standards help you win new business
According to our research, 29% of standard users experienced improved competitiveness after implementing a standard (BSI Standard Users research project, 2022).
Some projects - particularly government or public contracts - specify that companies wanting to bid for work with them need to adopt specific standards. Smaller businesses can gain a competitive edge and win bigger, more profitable contracts by having a few well-chosen standards in place.
Adhering to a standard, or getting certified by an accredited third-party body, demonstrates your commitment to providing quality products and services. It also shows potential customers and clients that your business takes the concern of that standard seriously - whether its scope is health and safety, sustainability, or product durability.
Standards improve company culture
Some standards support SMEs in improving company culture by fostering a structured and transparent work environment that emphasizes quality, consistency, and continuous improvement.
By implementing standardized processes and best practices, you can create a culture of accountability and efficiency, where employees understand their roles and responsibilities clearly. This leads to higher job satisfaction and motivation as staff members see their contributions aligning with your organizational goals and industry benchmarks.
Additionally, adherence to standards encourages open communication and collaboration, as everyone works towards common objectives and quality standards, ultimately fostering a positive and cohesive company culture.
Unlock your SME’s potential with standards
Incorporating standards into your SME’s operations can be transformative, offering a multitude of benefits that drive productivity, support growth, enhance competitiveness, and foster a positive company culture.
As we've explored, the strategic implementation of standards can streamline processes, ensure quality, and open doors to new business opportunities. By adhering to recognized frameworks, your organization not only gains operational efficiencies but also builds trust and credibility with stakeholders.
