Episode E3.006 Managing implementation of SOP's (Standard Operating Procedures)

Introduction

A standard operating procedure (SOP) is a set of step-by-step instructions compiled by an organization to help workers carry out complex routine operations. SOPs aim to achieve efficiency, quality output and uniformity of performance, while reducing miscommunication and failure to comply with industry regulations.
​
Listen>Apply>Engage

Show Objectives - The Why

Many organizations have procedures written down and unfortunately confuse having procedures with SOPs.  When your audience or employee only needs to know what to do in order to reach the desired outcome; then a process may be sufficient.  The reasons for having an SOP, would be because you may also need to describe what needs to happen for an outcome. As such, in a SOP,, you would include more detailed steps and information such as who, when, and where..

Key Issues - Owner Perspective:

1. Creating SOPs is time consumptive.
2. Even when creating SOPs, employees often do not take the time to read and implement them.
3. Things change and they often become outdated very quickly.

What You Need to Know - The What

1. The core reasons to and benefits of having an SOP
2. How to write an SOP
3. Mechanisms to increase utilization and the updating of the SOPs

​What You Need to Do​​ - The How

1. Begin with the end in mind
2. Choose a format
3. Ask for input
4. Define the scope
5. Identify your audience
6. Write the SOP
7. Review, test, edit, repeat

​Shows

• Previous: Episode E3.005 Managing implementation of Value Mapping
• Next: Episode E3.007 Managing the implementation of PD's (Position Descriptions) 

Written by Angela Hooper-Menifield

​