What are Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Why Are They Important?

A standard operating procedure is a document providing explicit directions for completing a certain task or operating a certain system.

David Oragui

SOP documents have detailed information on how to operate and manage your backend business operations. They should be “living” documents that should be updated frequently with changes in tools, technologies, workflows, processes, team members, etc.

SOPs are important because organizations and businesses can optimize and systemize their processes. Examples of why Standard Operating Procedures are important can include:

• Creating Consistency
• Encourages Best Practices in Business
• Enables Onboarding, Training, Communication, and Offboarding Efficiency

Perhaps the best way to illustrate the importance of developing SOP documentation is to consider the negative impact of not doing so. Basically, it leaves too much up to chance: There’s no guarantee that best practices will be followed at all times, that all team members will remain in alignment, or that the organization will continue to operate positively and effectively.

David Oragui

Keeping that in mind here are some non-negotiables when setting up your very own SOPs!

4 non-negotiables when creating your SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures)

1. Determine clear categories for classifying your SOPs

I have Standard Operating Procedures for every service I offer but if you are just getting started and want to start with something a little less robust, think big scale! 

Start with categories like team ops, client ops, marketing, etc.

2. Record your step-by-step process in writing & video

This is most important when working with a team with a different learning style than you do. Having both the written & video will create really robust SOPs that your team and clients understand!

3. Use a project management tool (ClickUp) to house your SOPs

Save the time and the headache.

We ALL know that ClickUp is my go-to #1 tool! You can create a sustainable & extensive system to house your business information and basically build a library of resources & SOPs that you can easily pull from and reference when needed.

When you house your SOPs in the same place as your tasks, you have easy access and clear organization that works FOR YOU!

ClickUp features that support SOPs

• Views
  • Table View is one of the most effective views for managing your SOPs.
    • Table view has the most structured form of organization.
    • Makes for streamlined organization & clear structure.
• ClickUp Docs
  • Using CU docs over Google Docs has more flexibility, and it is a ONE LESS tool for you to navigate.
• Mindmap
• Forms
• Custom Fields
  • Enables quick and easy filtering.
  • Provides an organized way to view your table.
  • Gives quick access to documents.

4. Creating & implementing as SOP Library in ClickUp

The last and seemingly most daunting step with SOPs would be to start creaing the magic!

The best part about it, it doesn’t have to be difficult if you take it one step at a time.

For more details on the implementation process of your SOPs, check out ClickUp for Entrepreneurs, Agencies, Marketers, & CEOs, and check out the Plug & Play templates to change your ClickUp game for good!