Gæðastefna

Gæðastefna, or quality policy, is a formal document issued by the highest level of management in an organization that states the organization’s intent and direction with respect to quality. It defines the commitment to satisfy customer requirements, comply with applicable laws and regulations, and pursue continual improvement of products, services, and processes. The policy sets the scope of the quality management system and serves as a foundation for establishing quality objectives and determining resources and responsibilities.

A quality policy typically includes commitments such as customer-focused excellence, compliance with requirements, prevention of nonconformities, and continual improvement. It is supported by measurable objectives, a process-oriented approach, leadership and participation from top management, and allocation of resources including training. The policy should be communicated to all employees and relevant external parties, implemented consistently across functions, and reviewed regularly to stay aligned with the organization’s strategy and market needs. Documentation, procedures, and records are often structured to reflect the policy and to enable monitoring and improvement.

In practice, a Gæðastefna is one element of many organizations’ quality management systems, such as ISO 9001. It guides planning, operation, and evaluation, and it is expected to be updated as the organization evolves, customer expectations change, or new regulations emerge. A well-crafted policy supports a culture of quality, accountability, and sustainable performance.

---