Handbook on Developing Operating Policies (PDF)

This is a handy guide for consultants and board directors on how to develop working operating policies for their organizations. Effective policies need to be simple, self correcting by the users, and at the same time, sufficiently comprehensive. If a simple set of procedures would do, then do not create a policy.

This handbook looks at 7 key elements in developing policies for your organization: 1. What is a policy? 2. What should be included in a policy? 3. When should a policy be developed? 4. Who should vet these policies regularly? 5. When should old policies be discarded? 6. How to communicate changes in policies? and 7. How to improve the current system of policy development, training, and dissemination?

This handbook delves into the policy development system, detailing how policies are created, maintained, and vetted within an organization. It emphasizes the importance of having a structured approach to policy management, ensuring that policies are regularly updated, verified, and discarded when outdated. This process is crucial for maintaining the operational integrity and strategic direction of the organization.

The PDF also outlines the key sections that should be included in any policy, such as the purpose, scope, responsibility, and verification methods. It provides a clear framework for developing policies that are not only comprehensive, but also adaptable to changing business environments. This ensures that policies remain relevant and effective over time.

Additionally, the handbook addresses the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders in the policy development process. It highlights the importance of involving the Board of Directors, senior management, and internal auditors in the review and compliance monitoring of policies. This collaborative approach ensures that policies are not only well-crafted, but also effectively implemented and enforced across the organization.