Which best describes the difference between a policy and a guideline?
OPTIONS
- Larger, more mature organizations often use policies, but modern organizations often rely more on guidelines
- Guidelines are simplified policies that are easier to follow because they do not recommend specific procedures
- Policies are used where there are external regulatory requirements, but guidelines are used for internal requirements
- Policies are formal statements of management expectation, but guidelines are recommended ways of work
ANSWER
Policies are formal statements of management expectation, but guidelines are recommended ways of work
EXPLANATION
A policy contains the formally documented management expectations and intentions, used to direct decisions and activities. Policies direct decisions and behavior. In most organizations, failing to follow company policies results in disciplinary action, which can include termination of employment. Guidelines guide employees as they perform activities or make decisions and provide general recommendations on how to act in different situations or how to do something to achieve the desired results. Guidelines are sometimes used where no specific policy applies, or where the organization does not aim to dictate behavior but rather to assist people who are unsure of what to do.
