If you’re just getting into setting up processes then it’s worth knowing the different types of process documentation available to you.
We’ll base the examples on getting into and starting a car, an example that most people are familiar with.
The checklist
This is the most straight forwards approach to an SOP. You can either create a simple checklist or multi-step checklist.
Simple checklist example
- Unlock the car
- Open the driver door and take a seat behind wheel
- Adjust the seat so that you can see adequately
- Adjust the side & rear view mirrors
- …
Multi-step checklist
- Unlock the car
- Use the unlock button on the key
- If the remote button doesn’t work put key in lock
- Open the driver door and take a seat behind wheel
- Adjust the seat so that you can see over the wheel
- Adjust side and rear view mirrors
- Ensure that you have all round vision through windows
- …
Pro’s
- Simple to follow
- Quick to write
- Very hard to mis-interpret
Con’s
- Not a huge scope for detail
- Doesn’t manage decisions well
Photo/graphical
These are really great for technical or manual processes that could be misinterpreted.
Pro’s
- Simple to follow
- Can show lots of detail
- Good for long processes
Con’s
- Not great for decisions
- Takes a little longer to write
Flowchart
These are great for where decisions need to be made but may require some employee training.
Example of a flowchart SOP
Pro’s
- Simple to follow
- Logical to follow
Con’s
- Takes more time/skill to write
- Not great for details
Bonus format: Hybrid
In none of the above really fit, there’s no reason you can’t mix up your formats. For example, combine a flow chart with a checklist/images.
You can get carried away with these, the key to remember is that they should be as easy to follow as possible.
Which format to use
Here’s a quick table to help choose the best candidate for your SOP.
| SOP Format | Many decisions? | Over 10 steps? |
| Checklist | No | No |
| Photo/Graphical | No | Yes |
| Flowchart/Hybrid | Yes | Yes |