What is a standard operating procedure (SOP)?

<p>A standard operating procedure is a set of step-by-step instructions for performing a routine activity. SOPs should be followed the same way every time to guarantee that the organization remains consistent and complies with industry regulations and business standards.</p>
<div class=”ad-wrapper ad-embedded”>
<div id=”halfpage” class=”ad ad-hp”>
<script>GPT.display(‘halfpage’)</script>
</div>
<div id=”mu-1″ class=”ad ad-mu”>
<script>GPT.display(‘mu-1’)</script>
</div>
</div>
<p>SOPs provide the processes needed for an organization to succeed. They reduce errors, increase <a href=”https://www.techtarget.com/searchbusinessanalytics/definition/operational-efficiency”>efficiency</a> and enhance profitability. They also create a safe work environment and produce guidelines for resolving issues and overcoming obstacles.</p>
<p>Policies are essential because they reflect specific standards, regulations and other statutes the organization may need to comply with, such as company <a href=”https://www.techtarget.com/searchsecurity/tip/How-to-create-a-company-password-policy-with-template”>password governance</a>. They often serve as the foundation for developing SOPs.</p>
<figure class=”main-article-image full-col” data-img-fullsize=”https://www.techtarget.com/rms/onlineImages/security-comparing_policies-f.png”>
<img data-src=”https://www.techtarget.com/rms/onlineImages/security-comparing_policies-f_mobile.png” class=”lazy” data-srcset=”https://www.techtarget.com/rms/onlineImages/security-comparing_policies-f_mobile.png 960w,https://www.techtarget.com/rms/onlineImages/security-comparing_policies-f.png 1280w” alt=”A chart comparing the focus and purposes of policies, standards, procedures and technical controls.” height=”509″ width=”559″>
<figcaption>
<i class=”icon pictures” data-icon=”z”></i>SOPs focus on procedures, often tied to policies, and support standards and technical controls.
</figcaption>
<div class=”main-article-image-enlarge”>
<i class=”icon” data-icon=”w”></i>
</div>
</figure>
<section class=”section main-article-chapter” data-menu-title=”How to write a standard operating procedure”>
<h2 class=”section-title”><i class=”icon” data-icon=”1″></i>How to write a standard operating procedure</h2>
<p>An effect

[…]
Content was cut in order to protect the source.Please visit the source for the rest of the article.