Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
A mandatory, standardized procedure for a recurring activity.
What it means
An SOP describes the steps, responsibilities, and checkpoints of a given activity. It ensures repeatability and is essential in regulated operations.
Why it matters
An SOP ensures consistency but doesn't capture the decision-making needed in situations the procedure doesn't cover. That's why it needs to be complemented with tacit know-how.
A real-world example
The SOP for cleaning a piece of equipment sets out the procedure; the operator's experience determines when it needs to be done earlier.
Detailed instructions for carrying out a specific task.
A practical script describing how to handle a specific, recurring situation.
Converting proven experience into unified, mandatory procedures.
Knowledge that can be written down, shared, and passed on in documented form.
A proven approach that consistently delivers the best results in a given organization.