Using Your WITS: Challenging an ISO 9001 Audit Nonconformity

A well‑run audit should sharpen and improve your small business QMS, not saddle it with imaginary gaps and additional busy work.

Challenging a finding that feels off-base protects your use of limited resources, your certification, and the integrity of the audit itself. The key is to do it without coming off as defensive or dismissive.

The WITS Approach to ISO 9001 Nonconformity

When you feel that a potential ISO 9001 nonconformity is unjustified or invalid, simply and politely ask your auditor the following question:

"Can you show me where in the standard ISO 9001 says we have to do that?"

WITS = "Where in the standard...?"

This request forces clarity, keeps the conversation objective around requirements, and often uncovers simple misunderstandings before they make it into the final audit report. If the auditor cannot point to a specific requirement in the standard, they might have a valuable observation, but they do not have a nonconformity.

Tips for a Respectful Exchange

• Stay curious, not combative. Use phrases like “I'm trying to understand…” or “Can we discuss how we both interpret the intent of this clause?”
  

•  Document the discussion. Jot quick notes on the clause cited, the auditor’s objective evidence, and your counter‑evidence. If consensus isn’t reached, submit these notes with your formal response.
  

• Close on collaboration. Reconfirm shared goals: a robust QMS and an audit process that adds real value to your small business.

A polite, clause‑centric challenge shows auditors you know your stuff, preserves goodwill, and ensures only valid nonconformities require the use of your resources and get incorporated into your continuous improvement journey.

On the off chance your auditor remains adamant there is a valid nonconformity, once you have the final audit report regroup immediately with your practical9001 consultant to determine if a formal challenge should be filed with the certification body. Often, you will find that the challenged nonconformity is now an observation or not present at all. Use the Contact link above to learn more about our practical approach to ISO 9001 and how to respond to questionable audit findings.