Procedure vs. Protocol: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
"Procedure" refers to a particular method for carrying out a task or operation, while "protocol" refers to a set of rules that govern the format and transmission of data.
Key Differences
Procedure refers to a specific method or way of doing something, often detailed and step-by-step. It's like a recipe for action, ensuring consistency and efficiency. Protocol, on the other hand, often refers to a formal set of rules or guidelines, particularly in the context of diplomatic affairs, scientific experiments, or computer network communications.
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Nov 13, 2023
In many fields, procedures are crucial for the systematic execution of tasks, ensuring that activities are performed in a consistent and repeatable manner. They are often documented and require adherence for successful outcomes. Protocols, while similar in ensuring consistency, often relate more to standards and agreements, especially in communication, ensuring that interactions or transmissions occur smoothly and understandably.
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Nov 13, 2023
A procedure can be seen as a practical, step-by-step guide to accomplishing a particular task, often grounded in practice and experience. It is the "how-to" aspect of task execution. In contrast, protocols are more about the overarching rules and agreements that govern how various tasks or operations are carried out, often focusing on the "rules of engagement."
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Nov 13, 2023
In healthcare, procedures denote specific clinical actions, such as surgical methods or diagnostic processes. They are practical applications of medical knowledge. Conversely, protocols in the same field would refer to the standardized guidelines that dictate the general approach to patient care, like treatment plans for specific diseases.
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Nov 13, 2023
In summary, while both procedures and protocols are essential for order and efficiency, they serve different purposes. Procedures are the practical steps taken to accomplish a task, whereas protocols serve as a framework of rules and standards within which these tasks are performed.
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Nov 13, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Context
Often used in operational or practical settings
Common in formal, diplomatic, or technical settings
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Flexibility
Can be modified as per practical need
Usually rigid and standardized
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Procedure and Protocol Definitions
Procedure
An established or official way of doing something.
Emergency evacuation procedures were practiced monthly.
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Protocol
A set of rules governing the exchange or transmission of data.
The computer network uses a specific protocol for data transfer.
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Procedure
A series of actions conducted in a certain order.
The surgical procedure was followed precisely to ensure patient safety.
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Protocol
The customs and regulations dealing with diplomatic formality.
The ambassador was well-versed in international protocol.
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Procedure
A method or way of doing something.
The company's hiring procedure includes several rounds of interviews.
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Protocol
A formal or official record of scientific experimental observations.
The research study was conducted according to the established protocol.
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Procedure
A manner of proceeding; a way of performing or effecting something
Standard procedure.
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Oct 19, 2023
Protocol
The forms of ceremony and etiquette observed by diplomats and heads of state.
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Procedure
A series of steps taken to accomplish an end
A medical procedure.
Evacuation procedures.
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Oct 19, 2023
Procedure
(Computers) A set of instructions that performs a specific task; a subroutine or function.
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Protocol
The first copy of a treaty or other such document before its ratification.
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Procedure
A set of established forms or methods for conducting the affairs of an organized body such as a business, club, or government.
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Oct 19, 2023
Procedure
(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.
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Protocol
The plan for a course of medical treatment or for a scientific experiment.
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Protocol
(Computers) A standard procedure for regulating data transmission between computers.
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Procedure
(uncountable) The set of established forms or methods of an organized body for accomplishing a certain task or tasks.
Ensure that you follow procedure when accessing customers' personal information.
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Oct 19, 2023
Protocol
The minutes, or official record, of a negotiation or transaction; especially a document drawn up officially which forms the legal basis for subsequent agreements based on it.
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Oct 19, 2023
Protocol
An official record of a diplomatic meeting or negotiation; later specifically, a draft document setting out agreements to be signed into force by a subsequent formal treaty.
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Oct 19, 2023
Procedure
(computing) A subroutine or function coded to perform a specific task, but does not return a value.
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Protocol
The first leaf of a roll of papyrus, or the official mark typically found on such a page.
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Protocol
The official formulas which appeared at the beginning or end of certain official documents such as charters, papal bulls etc.
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Procedure
The act or manner of proceeding or moving forward; progress; process; operation; conduct.
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Oct 19, 2023
Protocol
(sciences) The original notes of observations made during an experiment; also, the precise method for carrying out or reproducing a given experiment.
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Oct 19, 2023
Procedure
A step taken; an act performed; a proceeding; the steps taken in an action or other legal proceeding.
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Oct 19, 2023
Protocol
The official rules and guidelines for heads of state and other dignitaries, governing accepted behaviour in relations with other diplomatic representatives or over affairs of state.
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Protocol
An accepted code of conduct; acceptable behaviour in a given situation or group.
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Procedure
A particular course of action intended to achieve a result;
The procedure of obtaining a driver's license
It was a process of trial and error
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Protocol
(computing) A set of formal rules describing how to transmit or exchange data, especially across a network.
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Procedure
A process or series of acts especially of a practical or mechanical nature involved in a particular form of work;
The operations in building a house
Certain machine tool operations
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Protocol
(medicine) The set of instructions allowing a licensed medical professional to start, modify, or stop a medical or patient care order.
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Procedure
A series of steps taken to achieve a particular end.
The lab procedure for testing samples was meticulously followed.
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Protocol
The original copy of any writing, as of a deed, treaty, dispatch, or other instrument.
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Procedure
A manner of proceeding in any action.
The legal procedure for filing a lawsuit was initiated.
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Protocol
A preliminary document upon the basis of which negotiations are carried on.
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Oct 19, 2023
Protocol
To make or write protocols, or first draughts; to issue protocols.
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Protocol
(computer science) rules determining the format and transmission of data
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Protocol
Forms of ceremony and etiquette observed by diplomats and heads of state
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Oct 19, 2023
Protocol
A system of rules that explain the correct conduct and procedures.
Diplomatic protocols were observed during the international summit.
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Protocol
A procedure for carrying out scientific experiments.
The lab adhered strictly to the testing protocol.
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Repeatedly Asked Queries
Are procedures legally binding?
Procedures themselves are not usually legally binding, but they may be part of activities governed by law.
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What is a procedure in a workplace setting?
In a workplace, a procedure is a set of instructions employees follow to complete a task.
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Can protocols vary between different organizations?
Yes, protocols can vary and are often specific to an organization's standards and practices.
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Are protocols the same as laws?
No, protocols are not laws but guidelines or rules that are expected to be followed in specific contexts.
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Do procedures apply to emergency situations?
Yes, procedures are crucial in emergencies to ensure quick, efficient, and correct responses.
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Do procedures need to be documented?
Yes, documenting procedures is important for consistency, training, and reference.
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How important is protocol in scientific research?
In scientific research, protocol is essential for ensuring the validity and reliability of results.
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Can procedures be changed easily?
Procedures can be updated or changed, but usually require a review process to ensure efficacy.
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Do protocols change frequently?
Protocols, especially in technical fields, can change in response to new standards or technologies.
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Is following protocol mandatory in government settings?
Yes, in government settings, following protocol, especially in formal interactions, is typically mandatory.
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Are procedures important in safety management?
Procedures are vital in safety management to prevent accidents and handle emergencies.
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Is protocol important in computer networking?
Yes, in computer networking, protocol ensures effective and secure communication between systems.
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How do protocols affect data security?
Protocols play a key role in data security by defining how information is encrypted and transmitted.
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Can procedures be specific to individual tasks?
Yes, procedures are often tailored to specific tasks or operations.
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Is understanding protocol important for international business?
Understanding protocol is crucial in international business to maintain respect and professionalism.
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Are procedures applicable in educational settings?
Yes, procedures are used in educational settings for administrative tasks and classroom management.
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Do medical professionals follow specific protocols?
Yes, medical professionals follow specific protocols for patient care, treatments, and procedures.
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Are all employees expected to know all procedures?
Employees are generally expected to know procedures relevant to their roles and responsibilities.
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Can a procedure be informal?
Procedures can be informal, especially in smaller organizations or less formal settings.
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Can ignoring protocol lead to diplomatic issues?
Yes, ignoring diplomatic protocol can lead to misunderstandings or tensions in international relations.
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Nov 13, 2023
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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.
Shumaila Saeed
