SOP Archaeology Decision Matrix

The structured evaluation framework for existing process documentation that categorises each document as:

• Update (the process is still valid, but the documentation has drifted from current practice)
• Archive (the process no longer exists, but the documentation should be preserved for reference)
• Retire (both the process and the documentation should be deleted because they create confusion without adding value)

Regular application of the matrix prevents the SOP library from becoming an archaeological site of abandoned documentation.