What is Difference Between Policies & Procedures?

Last updated: 2026-06-01

Difference Between Policies and Procedures

  • Policies set company rules and expectations; procedures spell out the step-by-step instructions to carry out tasks under those rules
  • Policies usually apply to all employees across the organization
  • Procedures are typically tailored to specific job roles or departments 

Policies

  • A policy is a high-level document that sets company rules, roles, and governance. It explains the company’s standards and expectations.
  • Policy = What and Why

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)