The “S” stands for “Standard”
In a conversation with a past client, we were discussing the importance of standard operating procedures (SOPs) when managing data. I refer to this, generically, as documentation. Your processes need to be written down so that staff knows how to manage the data.
My client pointed out that one of their challenges is that staff isn't following the SOPs closely enough. I said "Well, it's called "standard" for a reason; everyone has to do it the same way." My client quickly replied, "The "S" does not stand for "suggested."" *
TRUTH!
So ask yourself, in your organization, are the SOPs standard, or are they suggested? If they aren't standard, you're going to have trouble.
*Props to Bill at HFTP for this great line!
![]()
Wes's Wednesday Wisdom Archives
Sometimes you just have to try it and see what happens
Sometimes you just have to try it and see what happens The single greatest key […]
Training and testing
Training and testing I’ve written before that the best form of training follows this process: […]
How to save a “failing” project
How to save a “failing” project It is not unusual for me to receive a […]
How to avoid the “IT black hole”
How to avoid the “IT black hole” Going all the way back to my days […]
The “People” are important!
The “People” are important! I’ve written a lot about people, process, and technology over the […]
Always look for the MVP
Always look for the MVP I first wrote about minimum viable product (MVP) just three […]
The longer you take, the longer it will take
The longer you take, the longer it will take It may sound like a tautology, […]
Data is for action
Data is for action When deciding whether or not to collect a piece of data, […]
Have you shopped yourself?
Have you shopped yourself? I’ve always been fascinated by the “secret shopper” concept. (Maybe it’s […]
To improve adoption, decrease the friction
To improve adoption, decrease the friction “Before you try to increase your willpower, try to […]
