TL 9000, is a standard scheme based upon the ISO 9000/ISO 9001 series and focused towards telecommunication service providers and their suppliers. This scheme was initiated by an international group of Telecommunications service providers, and is designated QuEST (Quality Excellence for Suppliers of Telecommunications). The part of TL 9000 that sets it apart from ISO 9001 is the metrics focusing on telecommunications (hardware, software and service considering "firmware")

TL 9000 assists telecommunication providers by providing management system guidelines within three specific sectors:

• Hardware
• Software
• Service

In 1996 the the cost of poor quality worldwide in the telecoms industry was estimated to be $10 billion to $15 billion, indicating a tremendous potential savings. Compliance to TL 9000 can reduce these costs for the industry which can lead to improve service and lower costs to the consumer.

A few of the benefits are:

• Continuous improvement of service to subscribers
• Enhanced customer/supplier relationships
• Standardization of quality system requirements, worldwide
• Uniform performance and cost-based metrics
• Efficient management of external audits and site visits
• Overall cost reduction and increased competitiveness
• Enhanced competitive position for conforming suppliers
• Creation of a platform for improvement initiatives

For all inquiries regarding System Certification, Please Contact:
Avital Weinberg
Head, Customer Services
Quality & Certification Division
Tel: 972-3-6465194