Processes, procedures & operating systems · Core
Standard operating procedure
Also called: SOP
ELI5
A controlled document describing how a recurring activity should be performed.
Used in conversation
“Attach the latest standard operating procedure to the decision pack before the meeting.”
Pitch context
You will see “Standard operating procedure” in operating plans, procurement packs, supplier reviews and supply-chain reports when the discussion reaches processes, procedures & operating systems.
Why it matters: In processes, procedures & operating systems, the definition can change ownership, capacity, process, cost or safety decisions.
Sources & evidence · 3
Direct term-level sources and supporting source families.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Productivity programmeDirect source · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- U.S. Acquisition.gov — Federal Acquisition Regulation Part 15 — Contracting by NegotiationDirect source · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- UK Government — Groceries Supply Code of PracticeSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-16