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I.  Description

(Italicized text is instructions, which get deleted from the template.)

REQUIRED - This section should answer the question, “Why is this procedure in place?”  This should be concise to allow the reader to easily identify the content.  This section should be brief, but background can be provided when needed.  Do not include minor details in this section.

II.  Objectives

OPTIONAL FOR RMs - Include a list of objectives that will be accomplished through the procedure.  After reading the procedure, the audience should be able to understand the document’s objectives.

III.  Scope

REQUIRED - Specify or describe the extent to which teams, people, work functions, or operations this SOP applies.  

IV.  Definitions & Acronyms

OPTIONAL FOR RMs - List and define the terms and acronyms used uniquely in this document. List in alphabetical order.

V.  Authorities/Responsibilities

OPTIONAL FOR RMs - Identify the stakeholders and briefly describe their roles.  Highlight roles who have pivotal responsibilities and authority to interpret organizational policies and/or determine the content and structure of the SOP.

VI.  Procedures

For RMs, the “Procedures” title can be relabeled for descriptive purposes, based on the purpose of the document.  

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1. Numbered lists up to six levels with format as 1 / a / i / 1 / a / i

2. Bulleted lists up to four levels, with format as solid / open circle / square / solid.

VI.  Associated Documents and Resources

OPTIONAL FOR RMs.  List any documents related to this RM.

 (Whenever possible, reference any associated documents directly into preceding sections rather than listing them independently here.)

VIII.  Revision History

Insert “N/A” if none.  Provide the history in table format. Example:

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