ISO 56001: Innovation Management System Certification
Unlock systematic innovation
Build a culture where innovation thrives
Innovation without direction is a missed opportunity. In today’s fast-moving landscape, businesses that embed structured innovation are the ones that lead, not follow.
LRQA helps organisations transform innovation from ad hoc to intentional, unlocking long-term value, increasing agility and embedding a culture of continual improvement. Our approach supports you to drive growth, differentiate in competitive markets and adapt faster to disruption.
We provide independent certification for innovation management systems tailored to your strategy, people and goals, so your next great idea doesn’t just happen, it happens by design.
Partner with us to embed innovation as a business discipline, driving progress, strengthening reputation and shaping your future with confidence.
What is ISO 56001?
ISO 56001 is the first certifiable international standard for Innovation Management Systems. It outlines requirements for organisations to systematically manage innovation activities, ensuring consistent value creation and enhanced innovation performance. The standard is applicable to organisations of all sizes and sectors, aiming to embed innovation into the core of organisational processes.
Benefits of ISO 56001 certification
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Proves your innovation credentials
Certification demonstrates that your organisation has a structured, reliable approach to managing innovation, helping reduce uncertainty and improve results. -
Builds confidence across teams and partners
A certified innovation management system supports clearer communication and coordination, enabling better collaboration both internally and externally. -
Supports long-term resilience
Certification shows your organisation is equipped to adapt and innovate in response to changing markets, technologies and customer needs. -
Enhances your market reputation
Being certified signals a serious, measurable commitment to innovation, strengthening your position with clients, partners and investors. -
Streamlines with other management systems
ISO 56001 certification can be integrated with existing systems such as ISO 9001, ISO 14001 or ISO 27001, enabling a more joined-up and efficient approach to management.
Our ISO 56001 services
Gap Analysis
An optional service where one of our expert auditors helps you identify any gaps or improvement areas in your innovation management system before your formal ISO 56001 audit.
Certification
An independent two-phase approach that provides a clear statement of your innovation management capability, helping you win new business and build trust with stakeholders.
Integrated Audits
In cases where your organisation holds multiple management system certifications, we offer an integrated audit and surveillance programme, allowing you to streamline your processes and ultimately leading to more efficient and cost-effective management systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ISO 56001?
ISO 56001 is the first certifiable international standard for innovation management systems. It provides a framework to help organisations put in place a clear, structured way of managing innovation. The goal is to support long-term growth by making innovation more consistent, measurable and aligned with business strategy.
Who can implement ISO 56001?
Any organisation can implement ISO 56001, no matter the size, sector or how advanced their innovation activities are. The standard is suitable for companies in manufacturing, services, healthcare, technology, the public sector and more.
How does ISO 56001 work?
ISO 56001 helps organisations manage innovation in a structured and consistent way by:
- Defining how innovation fits into the overall direction of the business.
- Identifying and developing new ideas in a way that aligns with business needs.
- Putting the right people, processes and resources in place to support innovation work.
- Tracking results and making improvements over time.
How does ISO 56001 integrate with other management systems?
ISO 56001 follows the same core structure as other ISO management system standards, such as ISO 9001 (quality) or ISO 14001 (environment). This makes it easier to combine with existing systems, helping create a more joined-up way of working.
What is the process for getting ISO 56001 certified?
The certification process for ISO 56001 involves several key steps:
1. Develop and implement your innovation management system
The first step is to develop and implement an innovation management system that aligns with ISO 56001 requirements. This includes establishing policies, processes and responsibilities that support the effective management of innovation. The system should be designed to align innovation with strategic objectives, encourage idea generation and evaluation, and support the implementation of innovation across your organisation.
2. Conduct a Gap Analysis
Once your innovation management system is in place, a gap analysis can help identify any areas needing improvement to meet ISO 56001 requirements. This review compares your current practices with the standard and highlights areas where changes or additional controls may be needed. LRQA offers an optional Gap Analysis service delivered by our expert auditors to support your readiness for certification.
3. Carry out internal audits
Internal audits are a key part of preparing for certification. They help ensure your system is working as intended and meeting the requirements of ISO 56001. Internal audits also provide valuable insight into what is working well and where improvements may be needed, supporting continuous improvement across your innovation activities.
4. Complete your LRQA audit
The next step is to undergo an external certification audit conducted by LRQA. Our auditors will review your documentation, speak with staff and assess your processes to verify that your innovation management system meets the requirements of ISO 56001. This audit confirms the system is effectively supporting innovation throughout your organisation.
5. Address non-conformities
If any non-conformities are identified during the audit, they must be addressed promptly. This involves taking corrective action to resolve the issues and prevent them from recurring. Demonstrating a commitment to addressing non-conformities is a key part of achieving certification and maintaining ongoing compliance.
6. Promote your ISO 56001 certification
Following successful completion of your audit and resolution of any non-conformities, you will receive ISO 56001 certification. This certification shows your organisation has a structured, reliable approach to managing innovation. It helps build credibility with stakeholders, strengthens your market position and supports long-term business growth.
How can organisations maintain ISO 56001 certification?
Certification is not a one-time event but an ongoing process. To maintain ISO 56001 certification, organisations must continually monitor and improve their innovation management system. This includes conducting regular internal audits, reviewing performance against objectives, and making updates as needed to reflect changes in strategy, operations or the external environment. LRQA will also carry out periodic surveillance audits to confirm continued compliance with the standard and support ongoing improvement.
