{"id":58419,"date":"2022-04-21T12:57:54","date_gmt":"2022-04-21T16:57:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/?p=58419"},"modified":"2026-04-01T04:17:12","modified_gmt":"2026-04-01T08:17:12","slug":"work-instruction-vs-sop","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/work-instruction-vs-sop\/","title":{"rendered":"Work Instruction vs SOP: Which is Better?"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Work-Instruction-vs-SOP-Blog-Header.png\" alt=\"work instruction vs sop\" class=\"wp-image-58431\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Work-Instruction-vs-SOP-Blog-Header.png 1024w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Work-Instruction-vs-SOP-Blog-Header-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Work-Instruction-vs-SOP-Blog-Header-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Work-Instruction-vs-SOP-Blog-Header-730x411.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Work instructions and standard operating procedures (SOPs) are both process analysis tools used by businesses to make a process more detailed and actionable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They ensure the proper and efficient accomplishment of tasks that make up core processes and key operating activities in a company.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we will define each term extensively to see the similarities and differences between them and figure out which one will be the better fit for your organization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You will also learn how you can&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/features\/checklist-maker\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">create work instructions<\/a> and SOPs with Venngage&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/checklist\/work\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">checklist templates<\/a>. Ready? Let&#8217;s get started!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/infograph.venngage.com\/register?category=checklist\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>START CREATING FOR FREE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Click to jump ahead:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#what\">What is SOP?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#work\">What is a work instruction?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#diff\">Difference between work instructions and SOPs<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#when\">When to use work instructions vs SOPs<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#FAQs\">FAQs<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what\"><strong>What is SOP?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>To provide a clear definition of an SOP (a standard operating procedure), we must first differentiate a process from a procedure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A process is a series of actions or steps taken to achieve a particular result, while a procedure communicates the specific way to carry out a process. This means that a procedure is a more detailed version of a process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now, a standard operating procedure or SOP is a formal documentation of a procedure or routine activity in an organization. It provides general information about the activity and focuses on specifying details such as the people and resources needed to complete it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/standard-operating-procedure\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Standard operating procedures<\/a>&nbsp;outline:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li>What the activity is<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Who performs the activity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>When the activity is performed<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, this SOP checklist template identifies blog publishing as the activity, and the content writers, editors, and content managers are the people involved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/checklist\/simple-blog-publishing-checklist-05f9f59a-e304-42b6-99a9-43eb259bd724\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Simple-Blog-Publishing-Checklist-Template.png\" alt=\"Simple Blog Publishing Checklist Template\n\" class=\"wp-image-58421\" width=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Simple-Blog-Publishing-Checklist-Template.png 816w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Simple-Blog-Publishing-Checklist-Template-232x300.png 232w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Simple-Blog-Publishing-Checklist-Template-791x1024.png 791w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Simple-Blog-Publishing-Checklist-Template-768x994.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Simple-Blog-Publishing-Checklist-Template-730x945.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 816px) 100vw, 816px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/checklist\/simple-blog-publishing-checklist-05f9f59a-e304-42b6-99a9-43eb259bd724\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>EDIT THIS TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Who needs an SOP?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Standard operating procedures are assigned to different departments or business units to maintain and comply with industry regulations and business standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Managers can use SOPs to coordinate and assign target outputs and measure individual performance. At the same time, SOPs produce guidelines that employees are required to follow for consistency and efficiency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What are the use cases for an SOP?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Standard operating procedures cover the processes, policies, and standards that keep an organization running. They can be used for various purposes, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/process-documentation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Documenting processes<\/a>&nbsp;or establishing strict schedules and specific procedures<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/onboarding-checklist\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Onboarding<\/a>&nbsp;new employees<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Controlling product or service quality and consistency<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Simplifying&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/performance-management\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">performance management<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Guaranteeing compliance to standards and regulations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, this SOP documents the 7 steps involved in the talent management process for a company:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/talent-acquisition-processes-infographic-be2b63f4-2a00-49a1-a72d-fa5ae936712c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/SOP-management.png\" alt=\"Talent Acquisition Processes Infographic Template\n\" class=\"wp-image-58422\" width=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/SOP-management.png 816w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/SOP-management-89x300.png 89w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/SOP-management-304x1024.png 304w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/SOP-management-768x2588.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/SOP-management-456x1536.png 456w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/SOP-management-608x2048.png 608w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/SOP-management-730x2460.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 816px) 100vw, 816px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/talent-acquisition-processes-infographic-be2b63f4-2a00-49a1-a72d-fa5ae936712c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>EDIT THIS TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What is included in an SOP?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There are no official guidelines on how to prepare an SOP. However, a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/standard-operating-procedure-checklist\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">standard operating procedure checklist<\/a>&nbsp;generally consists of 3 primary elements:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li>A title that clearly identifies the procedure or activity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The procedure, which includes its purpose, scope, requirements, and summary of its steps<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A checklist of activities for quality control and quality assurance<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Here is an example of an SOP checklist for a cleaning job. As you can see, it contains a checklist of steps and activities that are part of the process of cleaning and practicing health and safety protocols:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/checklist\/cleaning-job-aid-checklist-d5072cd2-07f9-40be-808e-98e6a7257dc7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Cleaning-Job-Aid-Checklist-Template.png\" alt=\"Cleaning Protocol Job Aid Checklist Template\n\" class=\"wp-image-58423\" width=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Cleaning-Job-Aid-Checklist-Template.png 816w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Cleaning-Job-Aid-Checklist-Template-232x300.png 232w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Cleaning-Job-Aid-Checklist-Template-791x1024.png 791w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Cleaning-Job-Aid-Checklist-Template-768x994.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Cleaning-Job-Aid-Checklist-Template-730x945.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 816px) 100vw, 816px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/checklist\/cleaning-job-aid-checklist-d5072cd2-07f9-40be-808e-98e6a7257dc7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>EDIT THIS TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"work\"><strong>What is a work instruction?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>On the contrary, <a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/work-instruction\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">work instructions<\/a> are documents that contain very specific instructions or directions on how to carry out a certain task.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A work instruction explains and describes in detail the steps required to complete a task and how to do each step correctly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This example shows the step-by-step instructions for responding to a negative customer review:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/customer-support-response-process-job-aid-template-4ef7032e-dcc1-4578-8843-3d72c4f8f207\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Customer-Support-Response-Process-Job-Aid-Template-1.png\" alt=\"Customer Support Response Process Job Aid Template Infographic\n\" class=\"wp-image-58424\" width=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Customer-Support-Response-Process-Job-Aid-Template-1.png 816w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Customer-Support-Response-Process-Job-Aid-Template-1-186x300.png 186w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Customer-Support-Response-Process-Job-Aid-Template-1-634x1024.png 634w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Customer-Support-Response-Process-Job-Aid-Template-1-768x1240.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Customer-Support-Response-Process-Job-Aid-Template-1-730x1179.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 816px) 100vw, 816px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/customer-support-response-process-job-aid-template-4ef7032e-dcc1-4578-8843-3d72c4f8f207\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>EDIT THIS TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<p>Work instructions focus on the instructions of the actual work or task at hand. They usually involve the participation of one person with one role in a single business unit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In contrast, standard operating procedures can consist of more than one task and therefore include multiple work instructions and involve various roles and departments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Who needs a work instruction?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Workers in highly controlled environments need detailed work instructions to help guide them in doing their jobs safely, accurately, and efficiently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Work instructions can also help management teams ensure that the best possible means of accomplishing a task is clearly communicated and executed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once implemented, both work instructions and standard operating procedures become mandatory methods and guidelines in the workplace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What are the use cases for a work instruction?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While SOPs are in charge of the \u2018what,\u2019 \u2018who,\u2019 and \u2018when,\u2019 work instructions answer the \u2018how\u2019 in a procedure. They ensure the successful completion of tasks that make up the daily operations of a business. Aside from that, they can be used for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Minimizing risks and errors<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Standardizing and streamlining workflows<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Resolving issues<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Promoting workplace safety<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Improving processes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>For instance, this example contains an in-depth guide with complete steps on how to use an employee management system to streamline the process of clocking in and recording transactions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/employee-reference-guide-job-aid-b7e77a32-061c-459b-b514-f3b512b7fc0d\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Employee-Reference-Guide-Job-Aid-Infographic-Template-1.png\" alt=\"Employee Reference Guide Job Aid Infographic Template\n\" class=\"wp-image-58425\" width=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Employee-Reference-Guide-Job-Aid-Infographic-Template-1.png 816w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Employee-Reference-Guide-Job-Aid-Infographic-Template-1-136x300.png 136w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Employee-Reference-Guide-Job-Aid-Infographic-Template-1-464x1024.png 464w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Employee-Reference-Guide-Job-Aid-Infographic-Template-1-768x1695.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Employee-Reference-Guide-Job-Aid-Infographic-Template-1-696x1536.png 696w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Employee-Reference-Guide-Job-Aid-Infographic-Template-1-730x1611.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 816px) 100vw, 816px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/employee-reference-guide-job-aid-b7e77a32-061c-459b-b514-f3b512b7fc0d\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>EDIT THIS TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What is included in a work instruction?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There is also no standard way to create work instructions. Although they are more detailed than SOPs and have elaborate components, they can usually be compressed to less than one page that discusses a task\u2019s\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li>Title and description<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Objectives<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Purpose<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Scope<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Requirements<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Complete step-by-step instructions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Expected outcomes<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s an example of a work instruction to help employees learn to use Google Meet:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/colorful-how-to-use-google-meet-infographic-e08d5f33-8c56-4ff9-b166-400a82d7dfa5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/process-infographic-template.png\" alt=\"Colorful How to use Google Meet Infographic Template\n\" class=\"wp-image-58426\" width=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/process-infographic-template.png 816w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/process-infographic-template-92x300.png 92w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/process-infographic-template-313x1024.png 313w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/process-infographic-template-768x2513.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/process-infographic-template-469x1536.png 469w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/process-infographic-template-626x2048.png 626w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/process-infographic-template-730x2389.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 816px) 100vw, 816px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/colorful-how-to-use-google-meet-infographic-e08d5f33-8c56-4ff9-b166-400a82d7dfa5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>EDIT THIS TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"diff\"><strong>What is the difference between work instruction and SOP?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Work instructions and SOPs both fall under&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/job-aid\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">job<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/job-aid\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> <\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/job-aid\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">aids<\/a>&nbsp;that aim to improve efficiency and quality of work in an organization. However, while they can be similar in structure, work instructions and SOPs have different functions and content.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>SOPs summarize the specifications of a process while a work instruction is narrowed down to an individual task and elaborates each of the steps outlined within an SOP.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As you can see, this standard operating procedure provides the different activities and steps involved in the process of training a new employee:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/checklist\/new-employee-training-checklist-template-3beecfad-3f0e-49cc-a838-4a0511d4c041\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/New-Employee-Training-Checklist-Template.png\" alt=\"New Employee Training Checklist Template\n\" class=\"wp-image-58427\" width=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/New-Employee-Training-Checklist-Template.png 960w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/New-Employee-Training-Checklist-Template-115x300.png 115w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/New-Employee-Training-Checklist-Template-393x1024.png 393w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/New-Employee-Training-Checklist-Template-768x2002.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/New-Employee-Training-Checklist-Template-589x1536.png 589w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/New-Employee-Training-Checklist-Template-785x2048.png 785w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/New-Employee-Training-Checklist-Template-730x1903.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/checklist\/new-employee-training-checklist-template-3beecfad-3f0e-49cc-a838-4a0511d4c041\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>EDIT THIS TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<p>Meanwhile this work instruction discusses each step for onboarding a new employee:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/10-steps-employee-onboarding-process-infographic-2fe23420-1437-4eb6-b60b-e5cb5e7e5773\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/10-Steps-Employee-Onboarding-Process-Infographic-Template-1.png\" alt=\"10 Steps Employee Onboarding Process Infographic Template\n\" class=\"wp-image-58428\" width=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/10-Steps-Employee-Onboarding-Process-Infographic-Template-1.png 816w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/10-Steps-Employee-Onboarding-Process-Infographic-Template-1-72x300.png 72w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/10-Steps-Employee-Onboarding-Process-Infographic-Template-1-246x1024.png 246w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/10-Steps-Employee-Onboarding-Process-Infographic-Template-1-768x3200.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/10-Steps-Employee-Onboarding-Process-Infographic-Template-1-730x3042.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 816px) 100vw, 816px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/10-steps-employee-onboarding-process-infographic-2fe23420-1437-4eb6-b60b-e5cb5e7e5773\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>EDIT THIS TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<p>This means the distinction between these documents lies in their use and degree of detail. Work instructions are more applicable for supporting the day-to-day operations of a business while SOPs make processes more systematic from a management standpoint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In a <a href=\"https:\/\/simplerqms.com\/qms\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">quality management system<\/a>, work instructions and SOPs belong in a hierarchy of procedural documents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At the first level are manuals which serve as a reference point for targets, objectives, and responsibilities. Meanwhile, SOPs and work instructions comprise the second and third levels respectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"when\"><strong>When to use: Work instruction vs SOP<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Work instructions are used when establishing a uniform way of doing a task. They are used to show the precise steps for completing a task and often include images, graphics, and illustrations to provide more information and a better demonstration of the steps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>SOPs on the other hand, are used during circumstances that require a standard course of action. They are used to standardize processes and serve as guidelines for routine activities. For example, when managing business email, creating a guide on organizing incoming messages into folders would be an example of work instructions. Meanwhile, using a tool like <a href=\"https:\/\/clean.email\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Clean Email<\/a> to automate sorting and decluttering could be considered an SOP, as it provides a standardized method for maintaining an efficient inbox.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"FAQs\"><strong>FAQs about work instructions and SOPs<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faq-question-1\"><strong>What is the difference between SOP and OCP?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) is a detailed document outlining the steps and processes required to perform a specific task consistently. OCP (Operational Control Procedure) focuses on controlling specific operational aspects to ensure compliance with regulations and standards. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While SOPs provide comprehensive instructions, OCPs are more about maintaining control over specific operations to achieve regulatory compliance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faq-question-2\"><strong>What&#8217;s the difference between policy, procedure, and instruction?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Policies reflect your company values and should govern your business operations in order to influence employee behavior positively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A procedure then tells people how to put these policies into practice &#8211; managers specifically, so they can implement them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Finally, work instructions specify how to perform specific tasks, which leads to the fruition of policies and procedures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>In conclusion: Work instructions and SOPs both have distinct uses and benefits that can improve business performance<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The success of a business will depend \u200con clear, comprehensive, and organized work instructions and SOPs that facilitate the successful execution of business processes and operations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For actionable work instructions and SOPs, use Venngage to&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/training-materials\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">create training materials<\/a>&nbsp;and take advantage of thousands of fully customizable templates. It\u2019s free to get started.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/solutions\/training-materials\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>START CREATING FOR FREE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Work instructions and standard operating procedures (SOPs) are both process analysis tools used by businesses to make a process more detailed and actionable. They ensure the proper and efficient accomplishment of tasks that make up core processes and key operating activities in a company. In this article, we will define each term extensively to see [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":78,"featured_media":58431,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"om_disable_all_campaigns":false},"categories":[198,604,189],"tags":[241,276],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v17.3 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Work Instruction vs SOP: Learn the difference between them and how they can help you achieve efficiency, productivity, and quality output.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/work-instruction-vs-sop\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Work Instruction vs SOP: Which is Better? - Venngage\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Work Instruction vs SOP: Learn the difference between them and how they can help you achieve efficiency, productivity, and quality output.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/work-instruction-vs-sop\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Venngage\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Venngage\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2022-04-21T16:57:54+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-04-01T08:17:12+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Work-Instruction-vs-SOP-Blog-Header.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1024\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"576\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@venngage\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@venngage\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Let\u00edcia Fonseca\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"8 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/\",\"name\":\"Venngage\",\"description\":\"Learn to Communicate with Data\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":\"required name=search_term_string\"}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/work-instruction-vs-sop\/#primaryimage\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Work-Instruction-vs-SOP-Blog-Header.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Work-Instruction-vs-SOP-Blog-Header.png\",\"width\":1024,\"height\":576,\"caption\":\"work instruction vs sop\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/work-instruction-vs-sop\/#webpage\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/work-instruction-vs-sop\/\",\"name\":\"Work Instruction vs SOP: Which is Better? 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