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Also known as: SOP, process documentation, operating procedure

Standard Operating Procedure

FoundationalOperationsDocuments

Definition

Standard Operating Procedure: A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is a documented set of step-by-step instructions for completing routine tasks consistently. SOPs reduce errors, enable delegation, and create institutional knowledge that survives employee turnover. Effective SOPs balance detail with usability—comprehensive enough to follow, concise enough to use.

Example Usage

“Creating SOPs for customer onboarding reduced onboarding time 40% and eliminated common mistakes new CSMs were making.”

Common Misconceptions

SOPs kill creativity. Good SOPs handle routine tasks efficiently, freeing time for creative work.
Document everything immediately. Prioritize high-frequency, error-prone processes; don't over-document.
Write once and done. SOPs need regular review and updating as processes evolve.

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