---
name: Standard Operating Procedures
description: Document repeatable work.
---
# Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

An SOP captures how a repeated task is done correctly, so quality doesn't depend on who's on shift. Without them, every new hire rediscovers the same mistakes.

## Structure
- **Purpose.** Why this procedure exists and when to use it.
- **Prerequisites.** Access, tools, materials, approvals needed before starting.
- **Steps.** Numbered, exact, in order. Written so someone competent but new can follow.
- **Decision points.** Where judgment is needed, with the criteria. "If X, do Y; if Z, escalate."
- **Verification.** How to confirm it worked. "Check that report shows…"

## Maintain
- SOPs rot. Review on a cadence; version them. An outdated SOP is worse than none — it confidently misleads.
- Capture the exceptions. Most failures happen at edge cases the happy-path SOP ignores.