One way to manage a growing operation is to establish standard operating procedures (SOP).  These should cover all parts of your business, including customer-facing roles.  They ensure staff know about and understand the way you would like them to carry out their job.  Written procedures underlie any quality system. 

Documented procedures are necessary for controlling costs, maintaining consistent levels of customer service and adhering to health and safety or production standards.  Learndirect offers an online introductory course in Standard Operations.

Depending on the industry in which you operate, there may be legal or professional standards with which you must comply.  For example in catering trades, you must have hygienic working practices when storing and handling food.  Training your staff should therefore be paramount - see the Events Diary for forthcoming business training in Bristol.

Suppliers who maintain proven quality standards in their manufacturing or service provision can attract larger customers, including public sector contracts. Contact Business West to find out more about quality standards from BSI and ISO.