Work instructions are written documents that provide clear and precise steps to carry out a single instruction. They are used to guide workers on how to perform a specific task or activity in a consistent and safe manner. Work instructions can also include information such as tools, quality standards, and troubleshooting tips

Some examples of work instructions are:

• How to assemble a piece of furniture
• How to file and approve an employee expense claim
• How to sterilize medical equipment

Work instructions are different from standard operating procedures (SOPs), processes, and procedures. SOPs are high-level documents that describe the overall purpose, scope, and responsibilities of a process. Processes are the sequences of actions or events that produce a desired outcome. Procedures are the detailed steps that make up a process. Work instructions are the most specific and detailed type of document that explain how to perform a single instruction within a procedure

To write work instructions, you can follow these steps:

• Define the scope and purpose of your work instruction. What is the problem or opportunity you want to address? Who is your target audience? What is the goal or outcome of the instruction?
• Write down the key steps or stages of the instruction. What are the main actions and decisions that the user takes? What are the touchpoints or interactions with other actors or systems?
• Sketch out each step or stage on a separate panel. Use simple shapes and symbols to represent the elements of the scene. You can also add text or speech bubbles to describe what is happening or what is being said.
• Add details and emotions to each panel. How does the user feel at each step? What are their pain points or delights? What are their expectations or frustrations?
• Review and refine your work instruction. Does it tell a clear and coherent story? Does it capture the essence of the instruction? Does it address the problem or opportunity you defined? How can you improve it?