Competence Time Financial Resources Documentation Senior management commitment is important for involving all departments in EMS development and is necessary for obtaining the time and budgeting required for implementation. Policy commitments need to have the input and backing of senior management to provide the drive and authority needed to take them forward. In terms of co-operation an EMS cannot be developed and implemented by a single person. There needs to be awareness and co-operation from all staff. Without across the board participation, plans are likely to remain atomised and ineffective.
Communication is an important consideration here.
The number and experience of staff will have some bearing on how and when the EMS is developed. If an organisation does not yet have the staff experience to carry out its plans, there are several options. First, proposals may be simplified to something that is manageable. Second, staff may be trained within existing resources and third, external assistance may be sought for some key tasks. Using external assistance can ensure greater impartiality and increase the status of reviews and audits.