The Writing Format: The Heart of Any Policies and Procedures System

 

You’re probably thinking: What is a writing format, and why is it the heart of any policies and procedures system?

Put simply, a writing format is a structure or outline for presenting policies and procedures in a logical order. And structure can assure consistency among policy and procedure documents.

Okay, you say, “A writing format provides structure and consistency, but why is it the heart of any policies and procedures system?”

The answer is simple. The writing format presents the content of any policy or procedure. Without a method to write your documents, you wouldn’t have a system of policies and procedures. You would have to rely on oral or unwritten processes and decisions. This can easily lead to confusion, frustration, inconsistent decisions, angry employees and lawsuits. A writing format gives the reader a roadmap to have a smooth journey. With solid research and reviews, policies and procedures can be written to assure the reader gains a solid understanding of their purpose, objective and processes.

Definition

The Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary defines “format” as “a general plan of organization or arrangement.” The term “format” applies perfectly to writing policies and procedures because the structure, arrangement and organization of process and…

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