TABLE 2.

Differences between protocols and SOPs.

	Protocol	SOP
Terminology usage	Generic use or exclusive abbreviation	Peer‐consensus standard
Purpose	Aim for individual experiment design under specific application conditions	Ensures the quality of all analytical phases
Document formation	Separate file	Composed by one or more relevant protocols or other controlled documents
Applicability	Scientific medical research or unaccredited tests	Clinical routine or accredited tests
Files compiler	Manufacturer, designers, and developers	Clinical laboratory managers and peer experts
Revision procedures	Depend on each developer for individual experiments	If revisions are required, re‐authorization is needed
Description scope	Often described for specific operation step sonly	Detailed normative description for the entire procedure
Personnel requirements	Professionals or scientists	Clinical laboratory staff or peers
Feasibility of implementation	Options or references	Mandatory implementation once approved