The UOW Policy Framework describes the functioning structure of University Policy. At the top of the chain are rules, followed by codes and policies, which are supported by procedures and guidelines.
What is the difference between a rule, code, policy, procedure, guideline, and local protocol?
Policies, procedures, and guidelines are significantly different styles of documents; a policy describes what must be done, a procedure describes how things must be done, and a guideline informs best practice in how a task might be undertaken.
Procedures and guidelines should always comply with relevant policies.
Rules
Document setting out ethical standards, roles, responsibilities and behaviours with regard to an issue or topic. Codes have the same mandatory effect as policies.
Codes
Document setting out ethical standards, roles, responsibilities and behaviours with regard to an issue or topic. Codes have the same mandatory effect as policies.
Policies
An Academic Policy is a university-wide instrument governing teaching, learning, research, or internationalisation. It must comply with all relevant legislation and rules and will be approved by the appropriate Delegated Authority, as outlined in the .
An Operational Policy is a university-wide instrument governing administrative or operational functions of the University. It must comply with all relevant legislation and rules and will be approved by the appropriate Delegated Authority, as outlined in the .
Procedures
Procedures are documented instructions for the completion of specified actions. Procedures that support policy are mandated directions, and usually include flowcharts and contain statements describing how a task should be accomplished. The items apply in a particular circumstance. They are written in simple language (often dot points) and the sequence is important.
Guidelines
Guidelines are “best practice” advice on how to reach a specific goal or accomplish a task. They may also describe how stipulations contained in UOW Policy may be implemented.
Local Protocols
Local Protocols are operational procedures or practices that apply within a particular Academic Group or Division. They are subordinate to, and must be consistent with, all Policy Documents above them in the Policy Document hierarchy.
