This document provides an overview of ISO 9001:2000 Quality Management Systems and standards. It defines a quality management system as a management system used to direct and control an organization regarding quality. It also defines quality as meeting customer expectations and exceeding them to gain their satisfaction. ISO is an international organization that develops and publishes voluntary standards to facilitate international trade and disseminate innovations, with the goal of placing organizations on equal footing. Implementing a quality management system helps lower costs, gain customers and markets that require certification, and improves overall company performance.