Glossary

What is a standard operating procedure (SOP)?

Definition

A standard operating procedure (SOP) is a documented, step-by-step set of instructions for completing a routine task the same way every time. Modern SOPs often combine a written checklist with screenshots and a short video.

What an SOP contains

Most SOPs follow the same shape.

  • Purpose and scope
  • Owner and last review date
  • Trigger: when to use it
  • Numbered steps with screenshots
  • Rules, exceptions and escalation

Creating SOPs faster

Recording the task once and converting the recording into steps and screenshots is much faster than writing from memory. Explaino produces a narrated video and a written guide from the same recording.

Related terms

See it in practice

Explaino turns one screen recording into a narrated how-to video, a step-by-step article and translations.

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