Recommended Guidelines for Developing Standard Operating Procedures
Scientific Working Group on Imaging Technology (SWGIT)
Introduction:
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are agency unique documents describing the methods and procedures to be followed in performing routine operations. SOPs are essential to improve the quality and to implement uniform processes for conducting digital & multimedia evidence forensic tasks in a precise, accurate manner. SOPs should be task-based and written for each procedure conducted. They should be reviewed at least annually. The previously approved versions of an SOP should be retained for reference.
Scope:
SOPs should conform to agency-specific policies. Such policies may address document format, workflow, approval process, and tasks performed. SOPs may be stored separately, in one large collected manual, or organized by functional unit. For instance, a single manual may be more convenient, but having separate SOP documents may be more amenable to the discovery process. SOPs should contain all information necessary to perform the task being described. Individual agency needs and/or processes will dictate what information is necessary.