There are several common misconceptions of standard operating procedures in the cannabis industry. We will describe 5 common misconceptions below.
#1
We’re too small for SOPs
Truth: Businesses at all sizes need to document their processes and procedures. This ensures these processes do not change and employees know what the standard is for the company. It also holds as a vital training source for new hires and promoted employees.
#2:
Our employees know what to do. We don’t need to document it…
Truth: Standard operating procedures document best practices. This ensures information is not only obtained by individuals, but by the entire company. Certain company specific practices such as extraction pressures, temperatures, and times would be necessary to document for future success of the company.
#3:
Documentation is a waste of time…
Truth: This has got to be one of the most common misconceptions of standard operating procedures. Documenting standard operating procedures can help decrease training time and increase new hire usefulness. Even if each employee’s usefulness increased by 5%, that could save you up to 100 hours PER EMPLOYEE! Although documentation of standard operating procedures does take an initial investment, some of the processes may take place along side the documentation process.
#4
We already have standard operating procedures, we don’t need to have them updated.
Truth: Procedures change as companies grow. Your documented standard operating procedures should be updated as well.
#5:
We cant afford it…
Truth: You can’t afford not to! “SOPs reduce operational costs by minimizing accidents, rework, and idle time while optimizing processes for efficiency.”
Let’s put these common misconceptions of standard operating procedures in the cannabis industry to rest.
