ISO 42001: Meaning, Requirements, Benefits, and Everything You Need to Know

ISO/IEC 42001 offers a practical framework to manage those risks, ensuring your AI remains transparent, explainable, and trustworthy from development to deployment.

Whether your AI makes automatic decisions, learns on its own, or turns data into insights, this standard helps you manage the unique challenges AI brings. It’s about keeping things fair, transparent, and safe while still pushing responsible use and innovation forward.

Managing your AI shouldn’t be a headache but a clear path to trust and growth. In our ISO 42001 guide, we will show you how this standard can help you manage AI that you and your customers can trust, while keeping your business one step ahead in a fast-changing world.

Key takeaways

• ISO IEC 42001:2023 helps organizations manage AI safely and ethically throughout its entire lifecycle.
• Whether you’re in healthcare, finance, automotive, retail, government, or beyond, ISO 42001 guides you to handle ethical AI development, AI risks, and regulations effectively.
• The standard complements ISO 9001 (quality management) and ISO 27001 (information security), letting you integrate AI governance smoothly into your current systems.
• The standard uses a proven approach that keeps your AI systems effective, compliant, and continuously improving over time.
• ISO 42001 helps identify AI risks like data bias and privacy issues early, so you can address them before they cause problems, ensuring responsible development.
• The standard is for robust AI governance. It balances innovation with accountability, empowering your organization to build trust and confidently leverage AI for growth.

What is the ISO 42001 Standard?

ISO/IEC 42001 is the latest international standard that helps organizations take control of how they build and use Artificial Intelligence. Released in late 2023, it’s designed to make sure AI systems (AIMS) are safe, fair, and trustworthy.

Pay attention, that ISO/IEC 42001 is a management system standard (MSS). When your organization implements it,  you put in place policies and procedures for AI governance. Rather than looking at the details of specific AI applications, it provides a practical way of managing applicable controls, AI-related risks, and opportunities.

Who should consider ISO 42001?

This AI management system standard is created for organizations of any size involved in developing, providing, or using AI-based products or services. It is relevant across all industries, for public sector agencies, companies, or non-profits. This standard is especially valuable for sectors where AI shapes key decisions and daily operations, and also complements other management systems.

Regardless of your organization’s location, ISO 42001 applies globally. It’s crucial in places with strict AI laws like Europe, but just as relevant everywhere else as AI becomes part of more businesses globally.

ISO 42001 goal

The goal is to guide companies step-by-step through managing AI responsibly: from the earliest design stages to day-to-day operations and eventual retirement. ISO 42001 also pushes organizations to think about the bigger picture and adhere to fundamental principles: how AI affects their customers, employees, and even society as a whole, addressing societal concerns that arise.

ISO/IEC 42001 and PDCA

The standard applies using PDCA (plan–do–check–act) methodology. Here is how it happens.

Defining the scope of the AI management system

The first step is for organizations to define the scope of their AI management system. This involves understanding which areas of the organization the AIMS will cover and what controls need to be in place to manage it.

As part of this process, organizations are required to produce a statement of applicability. This statement outlines all necessary controls and processes that need to be implemented to ensure data quality.

Supporting development and ensuring continual improvement

The standard focuses on supporting the development process for an artificial intelligence management system by maintaining high standards for ongoing improvement and system maintenance. It encourages organizations to actively monitor the performance of their AI systems, including conducting internal audits, to ensure they meet expectations.

Monitoring and improving the system

The final phase in the Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle requires organizations to use the insights gained from monitoring the AI system’s performance. Based on previous observations, companies are expected to take corrective actions where necessary, addressing any issues or inefficiencies. Continuous improvement becomes key here, as organizations refine their AI systems to better manage risks and adapt to new challenges, regulations, or market changes.

What Are the Focus Areas of ISO 42001?

Now, let’s take a look at 10 areas that the ISO 42001 standard focuses on.

1. Risk management

AI systems come with their share of risks: some expected, some not so much. ISO 42001 helps you take a proactive approach by guiding you through identifying, assessing, and mitigating these risks early.

Risks can range. Here are only a few examples:

• data biases;
• privacy concerns;
• algorithmic discrimination;
• unintended consequences of automated decisions.

The standard ensures that AI security risks are caught before they spiral out of control. This early detection and action help your organization address identified risks and avoid reputational damage, operational disruptions, or even legal issues related to interacting elements. This way, you can build trust with your stakeholders, knowing you’ve taken the necessary steps, including implementing security controls, to reduce potential harm.

2. AI lifecycle management

The lifecycle of an AI system doesn’t end when it’s deployed. It is a continuous journey. ISO 42001 ensures that AIMSs are managed properly at every stage, from initial design to retirement.

This means not just creating the AI, but also keeping track of the entire ai lifecycle.

• how it performs,
• how it evolves over time,
• and how it should be retired when it’s no longer useful or safe.

When you manage AI throughout its lifecycle, you ensure it remains effective, compliant, and aligned with both your business goals and ethical standards. The focus on ongoing monitoring and improvement makes sure that AI doesn’t become outdated, ineffective, or dangerous in terms of cybersecurity as technology and market needs change.

3. Leadership & commitment

ISO 42001 recognizes that effective AI management requires strong leadership. Top management must fully support AI governance, provide the necessary resources, and ensure alignment with broader business goals.

Leaders must set the tone for AI practices by establishing clear policies. They should foster a culture of responsibility and ensure that ethical AI practices are embedded at all levels of the organization.

Management’s commitment is crucial for successfully implementing AI governance frameworks, ensuring that the organization remains focused on its goals and ethical standards. This leadership also plays a key role in driving accountability.

4. Ethical AI governance

ISO 42001 puts strong emphasis on ethical AI governance, which ensures that your AI systems prioritize fairness, transparency, and respect for privacy. This focus on ethics helps prevent issues like discrimination, bias, or misuse of personal data.

By following ISO 42001, organizations can ensure their AI decisions are made with the right ethical framework, reducing the risk of harm to individuals, groups, or society. Ethical governance builds long-term trust with customers and users, creating an environment where AI innovations can thrive responsibly.

5. Compliance and regulatory alignment

ISO 42001 provides the foundation for meeting both current and future AI regulations, including complex laws like the EU AI Act and data protection regulations such as GDPR. With ISO 42001, you can be confident that your AI practices are aligned with the most up-to-date regulatory requirements, aiding in achieving compliance.

This reduces the risk of non-compliance penalties and helps position your organization as a responsible and trustworthy player in the AI field. Additionally, certification signals to regulators, customers, and stakeholders that your AI-based systems meet the highest standards of legal and ethical accountability.

6. Transparency and explainability

For AI systems to gain acceptance, people need to understand how they work and how decisions are made. Transparency and explainability are crucial aspects of ISO 42001, ensuring that your AIMSs are not black boxes.

The standard promotes clear documentation of the decision-making processes behind AI systems, making it easier to explain how and why specific outcomes are reached. This transparency fosters trust and helps users, regulators, and other stakeholders feel confident in your AIMSs. Your organization can explain decisions when needed and address concerns raised by users or regulatory bodies.

7. Third-party supplier management

Many organizations rely on third-party suppliers for AI tools, data, and services, but integrating these external resources comes with risks. ISO 42001 stresses the importance of managing these third-party relationships to ensure that all AI tools, services, and data providers meet the same high standards for security, ethics, and compliance.

This includes:

• assessing the fairness of algorithms,
• ensuring data privacy,
• making sure third-party systems align with your own governance principles.

Proper third-party supplier management reduces the risk of external systems causing harm to your AI outcomes or business reputation, ensuring that your entire AI ecosystem is ethical, secure, and compliant.

8. Operational control

The standard emphasizes the need for clear processes and procedures at every stage of the AI system lifecycle. This includes creating standardized processes for system design: testing, deployment, and monitoring, as well as setting up robust mechanisms for troubleshooting and updating these systems.

Operational control helps reduce errors, ensure systems remain effective, and make it easier to adapt to changes. When maintaining these processes, organizations can conduct a readiness assessment to avoid unexpected issues and ensure that AI remains a reliable, trustworthy tool for business operations.

9. Performance evaluation

To ensure that AI systems continue to meet their goals, ISO 42001 encourages organizations to evaluate the performance of their AIMS regularly. This includes:

• measuring how well AI is meeting business objectives,
• ensuring systems are working as intended,
• and identifying areas for improvement.

Performance evaluation involves setting clear metrics, reviewing system outcomes, and using this information to make data-driven decisions about AI improvements. Regular monitoring and feedback loops allow organizations to catch emerging risks, optimize performance, and comply with rapidly changing regulations.

10. Continuous improvement

AI is a rapidly evolving field, and the systems you build today may not be effective tomorrow. ISO 42001 emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement by encouraging organizations to evaluate and refine their AI systems regularly.

This approach ensures that AI solutions remain effective, relevant, and safe as both technology and business needs evolve. This culture of continuous learning and continuous improvement helps businesses stay ahead of the curve, making sure their AIMSs are always aligned with the latest advancements and standards.

Key Requirements of ISO 42001 Certification

Like any other regulatory standard, ISO 42001 outlines very specific requirements that organizations must meet to achieve certification. Let’s break them down.

Establishing an AI Management System (AIMS)

The first requirement is to establish a clear AI Management System (AIMS). This involves several specific tasks.

Define governance structure

Identify key stakeholders, including leadership, project managers, and AI ethics officers, and establish clear roles and responsibilities for overseeing AI systems.

Create policies and procedures

Develop policies for AI system development, deployment, and maintenance. These should align with business objectives, regulatory requirements, and ethical guidelines.

Document AI goals and scope

Set clear objectives for AI systems, outlining their intended applications, expected outcomes, and scope of operation within the organization.

Ensure legal and ethical compliance

Ensure all AI systems comply with relevant regulations (such as data protection laws) and adhere to ethical principles, including fairness, transparency, and accountability.

Implementing the AIMS

Once the AIMS is established, organizations must take concrete steps to implement it across their operations.

Training and educating employees

Provide regular training to ensure that all staff involved in AI management are well-versed in governance, ethics, compliance, and operational processes.

Allocate necessary resources

Ensure that sufficient financial and human resources are allocated to support the implementation of AIMS. This includes hiring skilled professionals and investing in necessary technologies.

Integrate AIMS into business operations

Embed AI governance processes into the organization’s daily workflow, ensuring AI systems are developed, deployed, and maintained according to the established standards.

Establish internal communication channels

Create pathways for communication among teams working on AI projects to ensure transparency and consistent governance across the organization.

The goal is to make sure that all aspects of AI governance are put into practice and that AI is used responsibly and effectively across the organization.

Maintaining the AIMS

ISO 42001 standard requirements emphasize the need to maintain the AIMS over time, focusing on continually improving the system. This means organizations need to implement the following measures.

Regular performance reviews

Set up periodic assessments to review AI system performance against established KPIs, ensuring the systems continue to meet business goals and ethical standards.

Continuous risk assessment

Conduct regular risk assessments to identify new or evolving risks associated with AI systems, such as ethical concerns or security vulnerabilities.

Update systems as needed

Revise policies and procedures based on lessons learned, changes in the regulatory landscape, and technological advancements. Ensure AI systems continue to be aligned with current business and regulatory requirements.

Monitoring for compliance

Regularly review and ensure that AI systems comply with both internal policies and external regulations, preparing an audit report as necessary. This includes keeping up with new legal requirements as they evolve.

Continually improving the AIMS

The final requirement is the continuous improvement of the AIMS. ISO 42001 encourages organizations to monitor and evaluate their AI systems regularly.

Implement a feedback loop

Regularly collect feedback from AI system users, stakeholders, and auditors to identify potential issues or opportunities for improvement.

Monitor AI system performance

Use performance data to evaluate how well AI systems are functioning, identifying areas where improvements can be made, whether in terms of efficiency, safety, or compliance.

Update and refine processes

Based on performance evaluations and feedback, adjust AI system processes, algorithms, and governance frameworks to address identified challenges and improve outcomes.

Conduct regular audits and reviews

Perform internal audits to evaluate the effectiveness of the AI governance system and identify areas that need refinement. Set a schedule for ongoing performance and compliance evaluations of your artificial intelligence management system.

This ongoing process ensures that AI systems remain effective, safe, and compliant, even as new challenges and opportunities arise.

ISO/IEC 42001 and Other Standards

ISO/IEC 42001 is designed to complement and integrate seamlessly with other standards. Let’s discuss its relations with other standards in forming a unified approach to organizational governance.

ISO 42001 and ISO 9001 (quality management)

While both ISO 9001 and ISO 42001 are standards that promote effective management, they apply to different aspects of an organization’s operations, especially when it comes to AI.

ISO 9001 focuses broadly on quality management across all business processes. It ensures that products and services consistently meet customer requirements and regulatory expectations, while driving continuous improvement in quality. This standard provides a framework for maintaining consistency, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing customer satisfaction.

ISO 42001, on the other hand, specifically addresses the governance of AI systems within an organization. While ISO 9001 ensures overall quality management, ISO 42001 tackles the unique challenges AI brings, such as ethical issues, bias management, regulatory compliance, and ensuring transparency in AI decision-making. It focuses on responsible development, deployment, and ongoing oversight of systems, recognizing that AI introduces new complexities that require specialized governance.

The key relationship between these standards is that they complement each other. ISO 9001 provides the general framework for ensuring quality in processes, while ISO 42001 dives deeper into the nuances of AI governance. When integrating both, organizations can ensure that AIMSs are not only high-quality and reliable but also ethically sound, legally compliant, and transparently managed.

In practice, ISO 9001 establishes the foundation for general quality practices across an organization, and ISO 42001 builds upon this foundation to provide a specialized focus on the responsible and transparent management of AI systems, which are increasingly integral to business operations.

ISO 42001 and ISO 27001 (information security)

ISO 27001 is focused on protecting an organization’s data and information systems from security threats, ensuring confidentiality, integrity, and availability. It provides a framework for managing information security, helping organizations safeguard sensitive data, prevent cyberattacks, and maintain compliance with data protection regulations.

In contrast, ISO 42001 goes beyond information security to specifically address the governance of AI systems. It provides a comprehensive approach for managing AI models and algorithms, ensuring that they are secure, transparent, and aligned with ethical standards.

While ISO 27001 compliance ensures that the data used in AI systems is protected, ISO 42001 ensures that these systems themselves are developed, deployed, and maintained responsibly. This includes addressing risks such as algorithmic bias, ensuring explainability, and compliance with AI-specific regulations.

Together, these standards work hand in hand to create a robust framework for securing both the data and the technology that powers AI. ISO 27001 focuses on securing information assets, while ISO 42001 ensures the responsible, ethical, and secure use of AI.

The integration of both standards helps confidently manage Artificial Intelligence systems in a way that protects data, meets regulatory requirements, and builds trust with customers and stakeholders.

Other relevant standards

ISO/IEC 22989 (AI terminology)

ISO/IEC 22989 provides a common set of terms and definitions related to AI, ensuring that organizations use standardized language when discussing AI technologies. This is crucial for ISO 42001, which focuses on the responsible management, development, and deployment of AI systems.

Standardized terminology from ISO/IEC 22989 enables organizations to avoid confusion, ensure alignment across teams, and communicate AI-related concepts clearly with stakeholders, regulators, and clients. On the other hand, having a shared language enhances the implementation of ISO 42001, particularly in areas like risk management, transparency, and ethical governance.

For example, clear definitions of terms like “bias,” “algorithm,” “explainability,” and “data governance” are essential when applying the governance frameworks outlined in ISO 42001. Together, these standards ensure that AI-based systems are not only managed responsibly but also aid in ai risk management and are understood and communicated effectively across all levels of an organization.

ISO/IEC 23053 (AI and ML framework)

ISO/IEC 23053 provides a framework for describing a generic AI system using Machine Learning technology. This standard outlines the essential components and processes, helping organizations structure and manage their AI technologies.

This framework also helps organizations address common ML issues, such as ensuring the accuracy of AI models, preventing bias in data, and avoiding errors during the learning process. When combined with ISO 42001, it strengthens the management of AI systems and provides a more structured approach to their development and governance.

ISO/IEC 23894 (AI Risk Management)

ISO/IEC 23894 focuses on managing the risks associated with AI-based systems. It offers practical steps for identifying, assessing, and addressing risks to ensure safe and responsible AI.

Organizations can improve their overall AI governance by integrating ISO/IEC 23894 with ISO 42001. This combination helps address risks early on, such as bias, transparency issues, and unintended consequences, ensuring that AI systems operate effectively and ethically. The approach helps minimize potential harm while maximizing the trustworthiness and performance of these systems.

Main Benefits of ISO 42001 Certification

ISO 42001 requires structured risk management and impact assessments. It helps your team make smarter, data-driven decisions about AI development and deployment. It also gives you a clear process to evaluate the benefits and risks of AI projects, so you can move forward with confidence.

This standard also maintains a balance between managing risks and encouraging innovation. The certification doesn’t hold you back; instead, it provides a solid framework that lets you explore new AI applications while keeping potential downsides under control.

The list of benefits ISO 42001 certification can bring you doesn’t end here. There are some more advantages that are worth taking into consideration.

Responsible AI development

ISO 42001 certification guides organizations to develop and use AI systems in a way that’s both responsible and ethical. It encourages thoughtful design and deployment and helps companies avoid common pitfalls like bias or unfair treatment while promoting ethical practices. This leads to AI solutions that respect users and society, making innovation safer and more sustainable.

Practical guidance on risk management

One of the biggest advantages of ISO 42001 is its clear, structured approach to identifying and managing AI-related risks. From potential biases in data to unintended consequences of AI decisions, the standard helps organizations spot and address these challenges early. This reduces surprises and protects the business from reputational or operational damage.

For example, a financial company using AI to approve loans might face risks if the algorithm unintentionally favors certain groups over others. By following ISO 42001’s structured risk management approach, the company can:

• identify this bias early,
• adjust the AI model,
• prepare for the external audit by an independent third party;
• prevent unfair decisions that could lead to legal trouble or damage to its reputation.

AI governance and protection from fines and penalties

ISO 42001 provides a strong foundation for meeting legal and regulatory requirements, including upcoming laws like the EU AI Act. Non-compliance with these evolving regulations can lead to costly fines, legal challenges, and damage to your brand’s reputation.

ISO 42001 standard compliance demonstrates to regulators and customers that your AI practices meet recognized international standards. It shows that you’re proactive, trustworthy, and committed to doing things the right way.

This not only helps you avoid penalties but also strengthens your credibility in the market. Accordingly, winning clients and building long-term partnerships in a landscape where responsible AI use is increasingly demanded is much easier.

Trust and transparency: reputational management

Trust is essential when deploying AI-based systems, especially those that affect people’s lives or sensitive data. ISO 42001 compliance promotes transparency by encouraging clear documentation, explainability, and accountability throughout the AI lifecycle, significantly influencing AI deployment. This openness builds confidence among users, partners, and stakeholders, making it easier to adopt AI solutions successfully.

Continuous improvement

AI changes fast, and so do the risks that come with it. ISO 42001 helps you keep up by encouraging regular check-ins and updates to your AI-based systems. Instead of waiting for problems to happen, a risk-based approach allows you to spot and fix them early. This creates a culture where learning and improving are just how you work, keeping your AI safe, effective, and aligned with what your business and customers need.

For example, a healthcare provider using AI does not just set it and forget it. To meet regulatory compliance, they have to monitor how the AI performs as new medical information comes in. And following a process like ISO 42001, they can quickly update the AI to improve accuracy and reduce bias. That meant fewer mistakes, safer patients, and trust from regulators and the public alike.

Better integration with existing systems

In short, integrating artificial intelligence governance like this keeps your operations efficient and your risk management tight.

ISO 42001 works hand-in-hand with standards you probably already use, like ISO 9001 for quality and ISO 27001 for security. That means you don’t have to build your AI governance from scratch or juggle multiple, disconnected processes.

Instead, certification helps you bring AI management right into your existing quality and security workflows. This makes everything simpler: less paperwork, fewer overlaps, and clearer accountability across teams.

Competitive advantage

Being ISO 42001 certified positions your organization as a leader in ethical AI, and this is something that sets you apart in a crowded market. It’s a powerful way to demonstrate your forward-thinking approach and can help attract clients who prioritize responsible innovation.

Support for innovation and new opportunities

Finally, ISO 42001 balances governance with flexibility. Certification doesn’t slow innovation; instead, it provides a clear and structured framework for balancing innovation while helping you confidently explore new AI opportunities.

Challenges in Aligning with ISO 42001

Organizations often face several hurdles when working to align with ISO 42001, particularly as they aim to manage AI risks.

Integrating AIMS with existing systems

Bringing an AI management system into your current workflows can be tricky. It takes careful planning of data management processes to make sure new AI governance fits smoothly with your existing processes, without slowing things down or causing disruptions.

Addressing complex AI risks

AI brings unique and sometimes unpredictable risks. Spotting them early and managing them through effective AI controls is a challenge. Organizations need to handle everything from bias and privacy concerns to unintended AI behaviors, which requires a deep understanding and a proactive approach.

Lack of AI expertise

Many organizations find it hard to hire or train people with the right skills to manage AI responsibly. Understanding AI ethics, technical risks, and compliance demands specialized knowledge that may not be available in-house, making effective AI governance tougher to implement.

We Help You Overcome Every Challenge of ISO 42001 Alignment

Aligning with ISO 42001 comes with its share of hurdles, from integrating new AI management systems without disrupting your current operations to tackling complex AI-specific risks and even bridging gaps in internal AI expertise. That’s exactly where we can help.

Our team combines deep security and compliance consulting experience with hands-on AI expertise. We’ve helped organizations like yours smoothly weave AI governance into existing workflows, so nothing slows down and every process stays clear and efficient.

We understand the unique risks AI brings (bias, privacy, unpredictable behavior), and we know how to spot and manage them before they become problems. Plus, if you’re worried about skill gaps, we offer tailored expert guidance to build, improve, or complement your AI team.

With our custom, result-focused approach, we tackle every challenge head-on, crafting solutions that fit your specific needs and goals. We don’t just aim for compliance. We help our client turn it into a competitive advantage that builds trust and drives growth.

Final Thoughts

As AI becomes deeply woven into everyday business operations, managing it responsibly is a legal requirement now. Not all organizations were prepared for this, but here is where ISO 42001 comes into play.

It offers a straightforward, practical way to govern AI management systems ethically and effectively. Don’t think about it as another annoying regulation but as a way to protect your business from risks like bias and security issues, stay ahead of fast-changing regulations, and build AI that your customers and regulators can trust.

We expect ISO 42001 to be adopted rapidly worldwide, especially in regions with strict AI laws like the EU. It will become a key part of how organizations integrate AI governance with existing quality and security standards, creating a seamless, unified approach to managing technology responsibly.

Because AI technology and its challenges evolve quickly, ISO 42001 will keep adapting too, giving you the latest guidance to keep your AI systems safe and effective. Whether you’re just starting your AI journey or looking to strengthen your existing systems, ISO 42001 equips you with the tools to manage AI confidently and turn compliance into a true business advantage.

FAQ

1. What is the ISO 42001 standard?

   ISO/IEC 42001 or ISO 42001 is a global standard that outlines the necessary steps for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continuously improving an Artificial Intelligence Management System (AIMS) within a local or international organization. It is tailored for organizations that develop or use AI-driven products or services, including various AI initiatives promoting the responsible creation and application of AI technologies.

2. Is ISO 42001 worth it?

   Yes, ISO 42001 is worth it, especially for organizations utilizing AI-based products or developing AI technologies. Achieving certification helps protect your business from penalties and financial losses by ensuring compliance with AI-related regulations, such as data protection laws and emerging AI-specific standards.

   When following ISO 42001, you demonstrate your commitment to ethical AI practices and mitigate the risks of costly legal issues, fines, and reputational damage. It is about safeguarding your business and positioning yourself as a responsible, trusted leader in AI.

3. What is the difference between ISO 27001 and 42001?

   While both ISO 27001 and ISO 42001 focus on AI processes, governance, and management in particular, their scope is different. ISO 27001 primarily addresses information security management, ensuring that an organization’s data, systems, and processes are protected against security threats. It focuses on the confidentiality, integrity, risk mitigation, and availability of information.

   On the other hand, ISO 42001 specifically deals with Artificial Intelligence governance. It provides a framework for managing AI systems and their interrelated or interacting elements. It focuses on AI impact assessment, AI landscape ethical considerations, transparency, risk management, and compliance with regulations like data privacy laws. While ISO 27001 ensures secure data handling, ISO 42001 ensures that AI systems are developed, deployed, and managed in an ethical and responsible manner.

   In essence, ISO 27001 is more about protecting information, while ISO 42001 is about managing AI systems in a responsible and transparent way.

4. What is the difference between ISO 42001 and ISO 9001?

   ISO 9001 is a broader standard focused on quality management systems (QMS) across all areas of business. It ensures that products and services meet customer expectations and regulatory requirements, driving continuous improvement in processes, products, and services.

   In contrast, ISO 42001 specifically focuses on managing AI systems within an organization. While ISO 9001 is about maintaining quality across processes, ISO 42001 goes deeper into the responsible development, deployment, and ongoing governance of AI systems. This includes ethical considerations, risk management, compliance with AI-specific regulations, and ensuring transparency and accountability in AI decision-making.

   The key difference is that ISO 9001 addresses general quality management, while ISO 42001 targets the unique challenges and ethical concerns related to AI systems.