Procedures are one of the main pillars of management systems (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, etc.). They help organizations manage their operations in a systematic, transparent, and repeatable way. However, in many organizations, several “common misconceptions” arise when developing procedures.

1. “The longer the procedure, the better it is.”
This is one of the most frequent mistakes. In reality, a procedure should be as simple, clear, and detailed as possible. Overly long and complex procedures discourage employees from reading and applying them effectively.

2. “Only the quality department should prepare procedures.”
A procedure is a product of teamwork. Its effectiveness can only be ensured through the participation of process owners and end users. After all, those who perform the process know it best.

3. “Once a procedure is developed, it should remain unchanged.”
This is also incorrect. Like any system, procedures should be dynamic. They must be regularly updated, taking into account changes in conditions, technologies, and risks.

4. “Procedures are only needed for audits.”
The main purpose of a procedure is not just to pass an audit but to keep processes stable and under control. The audit merely verifies how effectively it works in practice.

5. “The procedure only exists on paper.”
Once a procedure is developed, its implementation becomes the most important step. To achieve this, internal trainings and application mechanisms should be put in place. Otherwise, the procedure simply turns into a stack of unused documents.

A good procedure is simple, understandable, practical, and continuously improved. It is one of the key documents that shapes an organization’s quality culture.

📘 Smart Academy provides organizations with training and consultancy services on procedure development, document control, and the implementation of ISO standards.
📞 Contact: +994 51 876 04 49
🌐www.smartacademy.az
📧[email protected]