In plain English
SOPs are how a task leaves your head: receiving a load, testing a unit, photographing stock, handling a return, closing the day.
Written badly they are ignored. Written well they are short, specific and matched to how the job is actually done.
Example
A one-page receiving SOP: count against the manifest, photograph damage, grade, tag, shelve, log landed cost.
Why it matters
You cannot hire, delegate or open a second location without them.
COMMON MISTAKEWriting SOPs for a business you wish you had instead of the one you run.
Related
YOU'RE APPROACHING THE EDGE OF THE PUBLIC BLUEPRINT.