To ensure consistency between policies and to increase clarity, new Institute policies are drafted using a standard Policy Template.

The Policy Template includes space for the following information:

  1. Reason for Policy → Why the policy exists
  2. Policy Statement → What is required, prohibited, or allowed
  3. Scope → To whom does the policy apply?
  4. Definitions → Terms specific to the policy - consulting end-users who are unfamiliar with the policy can help identify terms that should be defined. Defined terms should be capitalized throughout the policy.
  5. Procedures → Links to relevant procedures associated with the policy
  6. Forms → Forms associated with procedures
  7. Frequently Asked Questions → a link to Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
  8. Responsibilities → What responsibilities exist for specific roles or offices in regard to policy compliance - this will be offices, units, or positions rather than specifically named people. Ex: "Controller" rather than George Burdell.
  9. Enforcement → Potential repercussions for violating the policy
  10. Related Information → Related policies, websites, and documents that provide supplemental information to the policy
  11. Policy History → Brief description of any revisions to the policy

The Policy Template can be found here.

When reviewing a policy draft it is helpful for the Policy Steering Committee to have an Institute Policy Request Form that details:

  • The reason for the policy
  • Key aspects of the policy
  • Stakeholders who reviewed the policy
  • Resources needed for the policy

The Institute Policy Request Form can be found here.