How to Produce Procedure Manuals Part 1 – Framework

A General Understanding

Companies are aware today, that a written Procedures & Policy Manual distributed throughout its organisation is a catalyst to higher working levels. The goal of such a charter is to establish fundamental understanding of the Company’s policies, adherence to the rules while also addressing the concerns and expectations of the people employed in the Company.

Ideally, policies are best written up before commencing business as advised by established retailer, Shari Waters, in ‘Establishing Store Policies’. In reality however, that’s not the case for most business enterprises. Nonetheless, it’s urged that business owners have basic guidelines in place sooner than later to avoid any inconveniences.

In that regard, the following paragraphs outline the required action plan for publishing a Procedures Manual. The ideas presented in this article are usable for a new business start-up or for an ongoing business. But let’s assume that all Companies start their operations without a written manual.

You see, every business unwittingly establish procedures and policy that works for them over time. Typically, it is via the knowledge of the owner, background expertise of his/her employees and/or through solving routine problems faced by the business. Unfortunately, these processes are often not written and properly compiled into a file as expected.

Ironically, that is all it takes for a Policy Manual to materialise. It is a compilation of tested and proven procedures, rules, instructions etc. that already exists and works. These everyday practices are the ones that eventually form the Company’s procedures and influence its policies.

Consequently, business operators should also acknowledge that what worked before may not necessarily work still as the business progresses. Newer and younger people joining the Company with different mind-sets and experience; in addition to increasing customer expectations require flexibility. State regulations and Governmental laws must be taken into account as well. Therefore, being receptive to change is key; and having that translated into the Company’s procedures and policies make good sense and augurs well for the future of the Company.

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