Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Document

A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Document is a formal reference document that provides structured information, instructions, and guidelines for (typically mission-critical) organizational tasks.

• AKA: Guide Document.
• Context:
  • It can (typically) aims to provide Clear and Actionable Information.
  • It can (typically) have a Target Audience.
  • It can (often) includes Step-by-Step Instructions, Best Practices, and Troubleshooting Tips to assist users.
  • It can range from Brief Guide Document to Comprehensive Guide Document.
  • It can be managed by a SOP Document Management Task.
  • It can incorporate Visual Aids such as Diagrams, Flowcharts, or Screenshots to enhance understanding.
  • It can be updated to ensure the Information Currency and Information Relevance to User Needs.
  • It can range from being a Physical Guide Document to being an Electronic Guide Document.
  • It can be used for Self-Study, Training, or as a Quick Reference in Professional Settings.
  • ...
• Example(s):
  • A User Manual for a Software Application or Electronic Device.
  • A Style Guide detailing a Company's Branding and Writing Standards.
  • A Policy and Procedure Manual for an Organization.
  • A Legal Playbook providing Guidelines for handling specific Legal Scenarios.
  • A Technical Specification document for a Product or System.
  • ...
• Counter-Example(s):
  • An Advertisement that primarily aims to promote rather than guide or inform.
  • A Fictional Novel that tells a Story rather than provides Instructions or Guidelines.
  • A Raw Data Spreadsheet that presents Information without Explanatory Context or User Guidance.
  • a Runbook Document.
• See: Checklist, Industry Regulation, Manual, Handbook, Playbook, Standard Operating Procedure, Instruction Manual

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References

2022

• HTTP://chat.openai.com
  • Q: what is a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).
  • A: A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is a set of instructions that outlines the steps required to perform a specific task or process. SOPs are used to ensure that tasks are performed consistently and efficiently, and they can help to reduce the risk of errors and improve the quality of products or services.

    SOPs are commonly used in a variety of industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, and government. They are typically written in a clear and concise manner, and they may include details such as the purpose of the task, the materials and equipment needed, the steps to be followed, and any safety precautions that should be taken.

    SOPs are often used to ensure compliance with regulations and standards, and they may be required by law or industry standards in certain situations. They can also be used to train new employees or volunteers, and to provide guidance for tasks that are performed infrequently.

    SOPs can be created and maintained using a variety of tools and techniques, such as workflow management systems, templates, and document management systems. They may be reviewed and updated periodically to ensure that they are accurate and up-to-date.

2022

• HTTP://chat.openai.com
  • Q: what is the relationship between a standard operating procedure (SOP) and a workflow specification?
  • A: A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and a workflow specification are both tools that can be used to define and automate processes or tasks. However, there are some differences between the two:
    • Scope: SOPs are typically focused on specific tasks or processes, while workflow specifications can cover a broader range of activities and may include multiple tasks or processes.
    • Detail: SOPs are generally more detailed and specific than workflow specifications, as they typically include step-by-step instructions for performing a specific task or process. Workflow specifications may be more high-level and abstract, focusing on the overall structure and dependencies between tasks rather than the specific steps to be taken.
    • Audience: SOPs are often designed for a wider audience, including employees and volunteers who may not be familiar with the task or process. Workflow specifications may be more technical and geared towards individuals who are responsible for designing and implementing workflows.
    • Purpose: SOPs are typically used to ensure that tasks are performed consistently and efficiently, and to provide guidance for infrequently performed tasks. Workflow specifications are often used to automate processes and improve efficiency by defining the steps and dependencies involved in a task or process.
  • In practice, SOPs and workflow specifications can be used together to define and automate processes. For example, a workflow specification may define the overall structure and dependencies of a process, while SOPs provide the specific instructions for each task or activity.

2021

• (Wikipedia, 2021) ⇒ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Standard_operating_procedure Retrieved:2021-10-21.
  • A standard operating procedure (SOP) is a set of step-by-step instructions compiled by an organization to help workers carry out routine operations. SOPs aim to achieve efficiency, quality output and uniformity of performance, while reducing miscommunication and failure to comply with industry regulations.

    The military (e.g. in the U.S. and UK) sometimes uses the term standing (rather than standard) operating procedure because a military SOP refers to a unit's unique procedures, which are not necessarily standard to another unit. The word "standard" can imply that only one (standard) procedure is to be used across all units.

    The term can also be used facetiously to refer to practices that are unconstructive, yet the norm. In the Philippines, for instance, "SOP" is the term for pervasive corruption within the government and its institutions.

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