What is the Difference between policies and procedures?

Answer 1

* The differences between policies and procedures can be summarized as follows:

1. Policies guide decision making, while procedures drive actions.

2. Policies leave some room for managerial discretion, while procedures are detailed and rigid

3. Policies are an integral part of organizational strategies, while procedures are tactical tools.

4. Policies are generally formulated by top management, while procedures are laid down at lower organizational levels in line with policies *

Read more: [http://www.ehow.com/about_5100532_difference-between-policy-procedure.html#ixzz16HwVQgdU What Is the Difference Between a Policy & a Procedure? | eHow.com] [http://www.ehow.com/about_5100532_difference-between-policy-procedure.html#ixzz16HwVQgdU http://www.ehow.com/about_5100532_difference-between-policy-procedure.html#ixzz16HwVQgdU]

Answer 2

A policy is a high level, overall plan embracing the general goals and expectations of an institution or organisation - a statement that guides behaviour, influences decisions, and sets general parameters related to how the business will be conducted and to what is expected of employees.

A procedure, on the other hand, is a more specific statement. It describes how a policy is to be practically applied. Procedures are specific, factual, succinct and to the point. Procedures also outline reporting processes - the people to whom workers should report, the types of reports that should be made and the type of information that should be contained in reports. Procedures are documented and recorded so they can referred to as needed.