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Sop 3

An SOP format provides a template that defines the structure for creating standard operating procedures (SOPs). It establishes consistency by outlining elements like the layout, style guidelines, stakeholders, and references that should be included in all SOPs. SOPs describe who is responsible for what at a high level, while work instructions provide more detailed step-by-step guidance. An SOP framework regulates the process for developing SOPs across departments to ensure a unified format and that the documents work well together.

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Naveed Akhter
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193 views

Sop 3

An SOP format provides a template that defines the structure for creating standard operating procedures (SOPs). It establishes consistency by outlining elements like the layout, style guidelines, stakeholders, and references that should be included in all SOPs. SOPs describe who is responsible for what at a high level, while work instructions provide more detailed step-by-step guidance. An SOP framework regulates the process for developing SOPs across departments to ensure a unified format and that the documents work well together.

Uploaded by

Naveed Akhter
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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What is an SOP format

SOP stands for standard operating procedures – a set of instructions on


routine operations aimed at eliminating friction and improving team
efficiency. But what is an SOP format?

An SOP format is a template defining the structure stakeholders should follow


when creating SOPs. It allows organizations to create a predictable,
standardized process for building new SOPs.

Since SOPs can come in different forms and shapes – checklists, flowcharts,
step-by-step instructions, etc. – having a template is critical for maintaining
a consistent style of all your SOPs.

SOP formats always include:

• SOP layout.
• Style guidelines.
• Stakeholders.
• References (e.g., links to the company knowledge base or internal wiki).

The difference between SOPs and work instructions


Aren’t SOPs basically work instructions? Not exactly.

Work instructions are step-by-step guides on performing specific activities.


They’re very granular and detailed, with a deep focus on how a process is
carried out.

SOPs are top-level documents focusing on who does what and when they
do it.

For instance, an SOP for the last person to leave the office will cover the
entire process on the top level:

• Turn the lights off.


• Close the windows.
• Make sure all the devices are plugged out.
• Enable security.
• Close the door, etc.

On the other hand, an instruction will split each process into steps:

• To enable security, make sure the door is tightly closed.


• Activate the control panel by pressing any button.
• Dial the ‘1245’ code.
• Press the green button.
• Open the door and leave the space within 30 seconds.
• Lock the door.

Usually, work instructions are a part of standard operating procedures.

SOP use cases


Who needs SOPs? Literally everyone at your organization will benefit from
written standard operating procedures. Let’s back it with some evidence:

• HR representatives may use SOPs to standardize screening,


interviewing, employee onboarding, training, promotion and other
procedures in human resource management.
• Sales teams may use SOPs to streamline pipeline management,
pitching, contact management, deal closing, and customer interactions.
• Marketers may use SOPs for introducing new projects, running
marketing tests, evaluating test results, qualifying leads, etc.
• Customer service may use SOPs to handle customer complaints,
collect feedback, and analyze customer data.
• IT teams may use SOPs for troubleshooting, project management, code
reviews and other repetitive processes.
• Finance departments may use SOPs to run bank operations, handle
taxes, track money flows, etc.
• Call centers may use SOPs for call load forecasting, call handling,
feedback processing, and more.
• Office managers may use SOPs for event planning, managing supplies,
establishing workplace rules, and regulating offboarding employees.

How to create an SOP framework that


works with all teams
Paradoxically, you need to develop a dedicated SOP for creating effective
SOPs. In other words, you need an SOP framework.

You can’t expect one person to document all the procedures. Great SOPs are
a result of cross-departmental collaboration – and if you fail to regulate it,
you’ll end up with hundreds of documents that have nothing in common.

An SOP framework introduces rules for writing SOPs that can be easily
interlinked and adopted. Here’s how you build one and streamline SOP
creation.

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