What is the Difference Between Guideline and Policy?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main difference between guidelines and policies lies in their mandatory nature and consequences for non-compliance. Here are the key distinctions:
- Guidelines:
- Provide general recommendations, interpretations, administrative instructions, best practice guidance, or frameworks in which to operate.
- Are informal and not mandatory or required.
- Employees who don't follow guidelines usually don't face discipline.
- May change frequently depending on the organization's needs.
- Policies:
- Are formalized requirements that apply to a specific area or task.
- Are mandatory and must be followed either due to company values or legal requirements.
- Employees who violate a policy may be disciplined or even fired.
- Driven by business objectives and convey the amount of risk senior management is willing to accept.
In implementing both guidelines and policies, it is essential to use clear language and make it easy for employees to understand the requirements. While guidelines are more flexible and provide general guidance, policies are more rigid and must be adhered to by all employees.
On this pageWhat is the Difference Between Guideline and Policy? Comparative Table: Guideline vs Policy
Comparative Table: Guideline vs Policy
Here is a table outlining the differences between guidelines and policies:
| Guidelines | Policies |
|---|---|
| Voluntary and optional | Mandatory and enforceable |
| Provide recommendations on best practices | Establish rules and procedures |
| Offer flexibility in implementation | Ensure consistency across the organization |
| Can be more frequently revised | Less likely to change, as they are tied to legal requirements |
| Examples: Employment Discrimination Guidelines, Screening Guideline | Examples: Dress Code Policy, Sick Leave Policy, Email and Internet Policy |
In summary, guidelines are voluntary and offer recommendations on best practices, while policies are mandatory and enforceable, establishing rules and procedures to ensure consistency across an organization.
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