Standard Work vs SOPs: What's the Difference - and How GEN-OPS Bridges the Gap | Geneo
- latestbusinessoffe
- May 20
- 2 min read
Standard Work vs SOPs: What's the Difference - and How GEN-OPS Bridges the Gap by Geneo
In the world of operational excellence, terms like "SOP" (Standard Operating Procedure) and "Standard Work" often get used interchangeably - but they’re not the same.
Understanding the difference is critical for building a culture of continuous improvement.
🔹 SOPs are typically static documents - written to ensure compliance and consistency. They outline what to do but often fall short on how to do it best.
🔹 Standard Work, on the other hand, is dynamic. It defines the current best practice for performing a task, based on actual observations and refined through frontline engagement.
It includes not just steps, but also key timings, sequences, and safety/quality checks.
That’s where GEN-OPS comes in.
✅ GEN-OPS enables teams to create Standard Work that's accessible, visual, and built for real-time use - not just for audits or binders.
✅ It makes standard writing collaborative, so knowledge from experienced operators doesn’t stay locked in one person’s head.
✅ Updates are easy to make, which means Standard Work can evolve as better practices emerge.
By shifting from passive SOPs to active Standard Work, organizations empower their people, improve performance, and reduce variation.
💡 Want to stop SOPs from gathering dust and start building a leaner, smarter operation?
Let GEN-OPS help you write standards that actually work.
Why not book a demo today?
Follows Us On:
Contact Details:
7 Parade
Leamington Spa
Warwickshire
CV32 4DG
United Kingdom
Consulting
+44 (0)1926 940964
Software and general
+44 (0)1926 423132
Contact Name:: Tim King : 07810820414
Email: timking@geneo.co.uk