Policies vs. Procedures: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Published on January 30, 2024
Policies are guidelines or principles directing decision-making and actions. Procedures are step-by-step instructions for specific tasks or operations.
Key Differences
Policies are overarching principles that guide the decision-making process within an organization. They set the tone and direction, reflecting the ethos and values of the organization. Conversely, Procedures are specific, detailed instructions on how to perform particular tasks or operations, ensuring consistency and efficiency.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 30, 2024
Policies provide a framework for consistent decision-making and behavior, helping in achieving long-term objectives. They are often broad and flexible, allowing for discretion in implementation. Procedures, however, are more about the practical application, detailing the exact steps needed to accomplish a specific task, leaving little room for interpretation.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 30, 2024
In an organizational context, Policies might include codes of conduct, employment policies, or financial guidelines. These policies set standards and expectations. On the other hand, Procedures might encompass protocols for handling customer complaints, safety procedures, or steps for processing invoices, focusing on the operational aspect.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 30, 2024
The creation of Policies often involves a high-level perspective, considering the overall mission and goals of an organization. It's about setting a course of action. In contrast, the development of Procedures is typically more technical, focusing on efficiency, effectiveness, and compliance with established policies.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 30, 2024
When it comes to change management, altering Policies can have a wide-ranging impact, often requiring careful consideration and consultation. Changing Procedures, however, is usually more about refining methods to improve performance or adapt to new requirements.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 30, 2024
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Comparison Chart
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Policies and Procedures Definitions
Policies
Policies reflect an organization's ethos and values.
The inclusivity policy represents our commitment to diversity.
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Jan 09, 2024
Procedures
Procedures set standards for task performance.
The maintenance procedure requires regular checks of all equipment.
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Jan 09, 2024
Policies
Policies set the standards for behavior and decision-making.
The company's environmental policy emphasizes sustainable practices.
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Jan 09, 2024
Procedures
Procedures focus on how to execute tasks efficiently.
The hiring procedure outlines each stage of the recruitment process.
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Jan 09, 2024
Policies
Policies provide a framework for consistent actions.
Our privacy policy ensures customer data is always protected.
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Jan 09, 2024
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Procedures
Procedures provide detailed operational guidance.
The laboratory procedure ensures accurate and safe experiments.
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Jan 09, 2024
Policies
A plan or course of action, as of a government, political party, or business, intended to influence and determine decisions, actions, and other matters
American foreign policy.
The company's personnel policy.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 06, 2024
Procedures
Procedures detail the steps to perform a specific task.
The evacuation procedure clearly explains the steps in case of a fire.
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Jan 09, 2024
Policies
A course of action, guiding principle, or procedure considered expedient, prudent, or advantageous
Honesty is the best policy.
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Jan 06, 2024
Procedures
A manner of proceeding; a way of performing or effecting something
Standard procedure.
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Jan 06, 2024
Policies
Prudence, shrewdness, or sagacity in practical matters
It is never good policy to speak rashly.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 06, 2024
Procedures
A series of steps taken to accomplish an end
A medical procedure.
Evacuation procedures.
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Jan 06, 2024
Procedures
(Computers) A set of instructions that performs a specific task; a subroutine or function.
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Jan 06, 2024
Procedures
A set of established forms or methods for conducting the affairs of an organized body such as a business, club, or government.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 06, 2024
Procedures
(Law) The set of rules under which litigation is conducted, especially in contrast to the set of substantive legal principles that determine the merits of legal controversies and disputes.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 06, 2024
Policies
Policies establish standards of conduct for individuals.
The ethics policy dictates how employees should resolve conflicts of interest.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 09, 2024
Policies
Policies guide decision-making processes.
Our investment policy outlines criteria for choosing financial ventures.
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Jan 09, 2024
Procedures
Procedures describe the methodology for completing tasks.
The financial reporting procedure specifies how to prepare annual reports.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 09, 2024
Repeatedly Asked Queries
What is the main purpose of a policy?
To set guiding principles for an organization.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 30, 2024
Can policies change frequently?
Generally, they are more stable but can change as needed.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 30, 2024
Who is responsible for creating policies?
Typically, top management or the board of directors.
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Jan 30, 2024
Are procedures important for compliance?
Absolutely, they ensure adherence to standards.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 30, 2024
How often are policies reviewed?
Periodically, to ensure relevance and effectiveness.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 30, 2024
Are procedures legally binding?
They can be, especially in regulated industries.
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Jan 30, 2024
Can a single policy cover multiple areas?
Yes, some policies are comprehensive.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 30, 2024
Do policies apply to all members of an organization?
Yes, they are universally applicable.
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Jan 30, 2024
Can employees contribute to policy-making?
In some organizations, employee feedback is considered.
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Jan 30, 2024
How do policies and procedures interact?
Policies provide the framework, procedures detail the execution.
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Jan 30, 2024
Do procedures eliminate discretion?
They limit discretion to ensure consistency.
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Jan 30, 2024
Is it necessary to document procedures?
Yes, for clarity and training purposes.
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Jan 30, 2024
Can procedures be modified easily?
Yes, they're often updated to improve efficiency.
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Jan 30, 2024
What is the primary role of a procedure?
To provide specific, step-by-step instructions.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 30, 2024
Can procedures vary within the same organization?
Yes, they can differ based on departmental needs.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 30, 2024
Do procedures help in training?
Yes, they are essential for consistent training.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 30, 2024
How do policies support an organization's mission?
They align actions with organizational goals.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 30, 2024
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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