Standard operating procedures are written instructions that a company establishes to ensure that all products and services are delivered consistently every time while achieving minimum quality standards. They are step-by-step instructions that show employees or franchisees what they must do to accomplish certain tasks. SOPs should be designed to ensure efficient, quality output on a consistent basis, regardless of who follows them. SOPs should reduce or eliminate miscommunications and promote adherence to industry standards and regulations. SOPs are required if a business intends to expand organically or by means of acquisitions or franchising. Clearly, well written SOPs make it easier to train new employees and/or franchisees and make it far easier to sell or franchise a business if that is the owner's goal.

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