1. Start with a diagnosis
Clarify the assessment objective, the activities in scope and the applicable requirements. Examine the gap between what is defined and what happens in practice. For IFS, ISO, HACCP or FSSC 22000 projects, the approach follows the specific requirements and organisational context; these frameworks are not interchangeable.
2. Connect documentation with operations
Procedures, responsibilities and records should describe a way of working that can be applied. Review workflows, control points and information traceability. A well-written document cannot compensate for a control that is not carried out or a responsibility that nobody has accepted.
3. Prepare people, not just the file
Discuss roles, situations that should be reported and the evidence needed. Training should connect to each person's work. Check understanding through practical examples and observations on site, rather than relying solely on a signature on a training record.
4. Verify actions and address root causes
An internal assessment or pre-audit review can reveal remaining inconsistencies. For each finding, establish its cause, the action required, its owner and how effectiveness will be checked. Consulting supports preparation; certification decisions belong to the competent certification body and cannot be guaranteed by the consultant.