Policy vs. Procedure vs. Standard: Understanding the Big Three

Have you ever felt confused by the terms “policy,” “procedure,” and “standard”? You’re not alone. I’ve seen these terms used interchangeably throughout my career, often leading to confusion. However, each has a distinct purpose within an organization. Understanding these differences can help you navigate workplace expectations and ensure tasks are completed efficiently. Let’s break down the big three!

Policies: The Guiding Principles

Think of policies as the “why” behind what you do at work. They establish the overall goals and core values that guide an organization’s actions. Policies are high-level statements that set the direction and provide a framework for decision-making. For example, a company policy might state a commitment to diversity and inclusion, environmental sustainability, or customer satisfaction.

TL;DR: Policies: What needs to be done and why.

Procedures: The Step-by-Step Guide

Procedures are the “how-to” manuals that translate policies into action. They provide detailed instructions on completing specific tasks or processes per the organization’s policies. Procedures ensure consistency and efficiency by outlining the expected steps involved. Imagine a procedure for handling customer complaints or processing expense reports. These procedures detail the specific actions employees should take at each stage.

TL;DR: Procedures: Steps on how to do things.

Standards: The Benchmark for Quality

Standards define the “what” - the specific criteria or benchmarks to be met. They establish a level of quality or performance that is to be expected. Standards can apply to various areas, from product development and safety protocols to communication styles and data formatting. For instance, a company might have a dress code standard or a quality standard for manufactured goods.

TL;DR: Standards: Specific criteria that must be met.

An Analogy to Help You Remember

Imagine building a house. The policy is your overall vision - a comfortable and energy-efficient home. The standards are the specific building codes and material specifications you must follow. Finally, the procedures are the detailed construction plans outlining how to frame the walls, install the wiring, etc.

The Bottom Line: Working Together

Policies, procedures, and standards work together to create a well-functioning organization. Policies set the goals, standards define the expected outcomes, and procedures provide the roadmap for achieving them. By understanding these distinctions, you can better navigate your workplace expectations and contribute to a more efficient and successful organization.