ˈstæn.dəd ˈɔ.pə.rei.tiŋ prə.ˈsiy.ǰər / Standard Operating Procedure (S-O-P)
Definition
Standard operating procedure (SOP) is a set of step-by-step instructions that outlines how employees must accomplish a routine activity.
Employees must follow each step every time they need to perform the task. It's crucial to promoting consistency in business, especially in the eyes of customers and other external parties.
An SOP aims for efficiency, uniformity, and quality while avoiding issues such as miscommunication, confusion, and bad branding.
Ideally, an SOP must be straightforward. It should briefly outline every essential step for an employee to complete an activity.
