An organizational directive that establishes a standard course of action is known as a(n):

A standard operating procedure (SOP) is a detailed, written instruction intended to document how to perform a routine activity. It establishes a standard course of action for specific tasks to ensure consistency and efficiency within an organization. SOPs serve as a comprehensive guide that outlines the steps required to complete a task correctly, thus enhancing uniformity in performance and improving accountability among personnel.

In contrast, while a policy provides the overall framework that guides decision-making within an organization, it may not contain the explicit step-by-step instructions found in an SOP. Guidelines are often broader and suggest best practices but do not dictate specific actions. Protocols refer to formalized procedures, often in situations requiring adherence to a specific set of rules, but they can be less detailed than a standard operating procedure. Therefore, in the context of establishing a specific course of action within an organization, the standard operating procedure is the most accurate term.