---
title: "Standard operating procedure (SOP): Meaning for Small Business Owners"
description: "A standard operating procedure is a written, step-by-step guide for doing a recurring task the same way each time, no matter who does it."
url: https://peachtreeva.multisites.ai/glossary/standard-operating-procedure
publisher: Peachtree VA
book: https://peachtreeva.multisites.ai/contact
---

Operations

# Standard operating procedure (SOP)

A standard operating procedure is a written, step-by-step guide for doing a recurring task the same way each time, no matter who does it.

A standard operating procedure, or SOP, lists the steps, tools, rules and examples for a recurring task. It might be as short as a checklist or as long as a full manual with screenshots. The goal is that anyone trained can do the task and get the same result.

SOPs make [delegation](https://peachtreeva.multisites.ai/glossary/delegation) and [onboarding](https://peachtreeva.multisites.ai/glossary/onboarding) faster. A new assistant reads the steps and starts, instead of waiting for you to explain. They also protect you when someone leaves, because the knowledge stays in the business. Start with the tasks you repeat most.

Our [guide to virtual assistant SOPs](https://peachtreeva.multisites.ai/guides/virtual-assistant-sops) shows how to write them. Peachtree VA's [virtual assistant services](https://peachtreeva.multisites.ai/va-services) work best when your key tasks are written down. Keep each SOP short, test it with a new person and update it when the process changes.

## Related terms

-   [Delegation](https://peachtreeva.multisites.ai/glossary/delegation)
-   [Onboarding](https://peachtreeva.multisites.ai/glossary/onboarding)
-   [Delegation matrix](https://peachtreeva.multisites.ai/glossary/delegation-matrix)
-   [CRM (customer relationship management)](https://peachtreeva.multisites.ai/glossary/crm)

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