Policy Overview

The term policy includes all the directives, both explicit and implied, that designate the aims and ends of an organization and the appropriate means used in their accomplishment.

Policy refers to the set of purposes, principles, and rules of action that guide an organization.1 Rules of action refer to standard operating procedures along with any rules and regulations. Although policies are usually documented in writing, unwritten or informal policies can also exist. Informal policies are understood over time and eventually become part of an organization’s culture.