5 Reasons Why Every Business Should be Documenting Policies and Procedures

Documented policies and procedures provide a guide for best practices. Even if you think your procedures and policies are uncomplicated, there is still great benefit in documenting effective written policies and procedures. Here are 5 reasons why every business, no matter the size or industry, should be documenting policies and procedures:

1) Consistency. When procedures are followed, there is consistency in practice. This helps ensure things are done the same way, every time! When steps get skipped it creates inconsistency and the final service, product and/or the customer’s experience can be negatively affected.

2) Set Expectations. Policies and procedures allow an employer to commit to writing the company’s values and mission. They provide transparent standards of behavior, conduct and performance for employees and managers.

3) Training Tools. Effective policies and procedures build off of those who have been performing the job tasks and documents work methods of experienced employees. They incorporate lessons learned and best practices and clearly defines expectations for employees. They also provide a source of reference for employees to be able to review and check if they are following the appropriate policies and procedures.

4) Compliance of Law. Policies and procedures will assist a company in staying compliant with all laws and regulations. If a company was found to be liable, it would also serve to demonstrate that the company was genuinely trying to obey the laws and regulations through its documented policies and may even help to avoid penalties.

5) Foundation for Improvement. Documented policies and procedures are easily accessible and allows them to be reviewed regularly. This serves as a great template for what is currently done and can help to improve current processes to provide the best possible operating standards for the future.

If you need help documenting your policies or procedures or have any questions please contact me through the contact link.