Unter integriertes Management versteht man, dass verschiedene Managementsysteme zu einer integrierten Gesamtlösung verbunden werden. Einfach erklärt unterstützt ein „Integriertes Managementsystem“ das Unternehmen dabei, gängige Standards und Normen umzusetzen. Im Idealfall bildet es alle unternehmenskritischen Abläufe effektiv ab. Die Hauptziele eines IMS sind dementsprechend die Optimierung der Prozessabläufe sowie Effizienz- und Qualitätssteigerungen.

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Which functional areas in the company should an IMS cover?

The functional areas that an IMS should cover within the company include, for example, business processes, continuous improvement, document control and risk management. It functions much more efficiently than management systems that are isolated from each other. A process-oriented quality management system therefore forms the basis of modern corporate management.

How does an “integrated management system” work?

An “integrated management system” clearly presents processes, resources and organizational structures and discloses key figures and objectives. Requirements resulting from company and legal specifications are included. This enables management capacities to be saved and supports employees in implementation.

Why does it make sense to introduce an IMS?

In addition to the above-mentioned savings in management capacity and employee support, an IMS has other advantages. This is particularly true if it is linked to an ERP system for resource planning. Users can then view the documentation of the respective process at any time. They receive a comprehensive overview of the processes, always have all the information they need quickly to hand and require less training time. An IMS is therefore a powerful strategic tool for continuously improving company processes – which is particularly interesting for multinational companies.

How can I recognize a good IMS? The most important components at a glance

The main component of a user-friendly “integrated management system” should always be clear process documentation. After all, the focus is on business processes. The system becomes even more efficient with a connected user and document management system. Another important component is risk management, which assesses potential risks to operations and develops measures to safeguard against them.

The continuous improvement process (CIP) as an important building block

The continuous improvement process (CIP) is a basic principle of quality management and is therefore also indispensable for an “integrated management system”. This should support the CIP in its sustainable implementation. A system of key figures and the mapping of organizational structures round off a lean, efficient IMS.

Further reading:

http://www.doosanlentjes.com/download/pdf/csr/Inte…

https://www.springerprofessional.de/informationssi…

FAQ on Integrated Management System (IMS)

What is an integrated management system (IMS)?

An integrated management system bundles various specialized management systems such as quality, environmental, occupational and information security management into a uniform structure. The aim is to coordinate the processes, objectives and control mechanisms of these subsystems in such a way that synergies are utilized and duplication of work is avoided.

Which standards can typically be integrated into an IMS?

Standards such as ISO 9001 (quality management), ISO 14001 (environmental management), ISO 45001 (occupational safety), ISO 27001 (information security) or ISO 50001 (energy management) are often integrated into an IMS. These standards are structurally similar and can be easily mapped within a common framework.

What are the advantages of an IMS for companies?

One of the benefits of an IMS is greater efficiency, as end-to-end processes and systems are created instead of isolated stand-alone solutions. It also reduces documentation and audit costs, ensures clearer responsibilities and increases transparency within the company – which is particularly important for complex or regulated structures.

How does the introduction of an IMS typically proceed?

First, an inventory of all existing management systems and processes is carried out. Interfaces are then identified and processes harmonized, responsibilities defined and a common structure established. This is followed by implementation, employee training, audit-based review and continuous improvement.

How is an IMS connected to an ERP system?

An IMS benefits from the use of an ERP system because central data and process structures are already available there. Data on quality, environment, occupational health and safety can be managed in the ERP system and serve as the basis for the IMS. This interaction enables integrated risk management, central documentation and automatic reporting, which means that the IMS can be operated more efficiently and with fewer resources.

What challenges arise when implementing an IMS?

The main challenges are that existing systems are often set up in isolation, employees have to get used to new structures and responsibilities change. In addition, it is important to actually harmonize processes – not only organizationally, but also in the IT infrastructure – and to ensure that the IMS can react flexibly to new norms, standards or legal requirements.