Policies for Download
At LSC, policies are values based and set the ethical direction for organization, procedures outline the specific steps to implement those directions, protocols provide additional standardized operational processes, and guidelines offer recommendations and non-mandatory advice.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Policies:
These are formal statements that define an organization’s stance on a particular issue. They are the “why” and “what” of an organization’s actions. Policies are mandatory and serve as a foundation for best practice procedures. Policies often contain reference to legislative standards (which are mandatory) or ethical standards (that the organization wishes to make mandatory).
Procedures:
These are detailed, step-by-step instructions that explain how to implement a policy or standards within the policy. They are the “how” and provide practical guidance for carrying out best practice in the work.
Protocols:
These are standardized operational procedures that ensure consistent and proper execution of a specific task or process. Protocols are often used in situations where safety and accuracy are critical.
Guidelines:
These offer recommendations and advice on how to approach a situation or implement a policy, procedure, protocol or standard. Unlike policies and procedures, protocols and standards, guidelines are not mandatory and provide flexibility in application. Guidelines are often based on expert opinion suggestions, situational context or empirical evidence.
