Document Definitions

Several types of documents are inventoried in this repository:

• Policy

  A statement of principles and/or values that mandate or constrain the performance of activities used in achieving institutional goals. A policy is general in nature, has broad application and helps to ensure compliance with: applicable laws and regulations; contract requirements; and delegation of authority by the University Board of Trustees. Policies promote operational efficiencies and reduce institutional risk. Policies do not contain requirements. Directives, processes, procedures, work instructions, and the like flow from policies and the requirements are specified in them.

  A lab-wide policy satisfies all of the following criteria: It is a governing principle that mandates or constrains actions. It has multi-directorate application. It changes infrequently and sets a course for the foreseeable future. It helps ensure compliance, enhances SLAC's mission or reduces institutional risk. It is reviewed and approved at the senior levels of the Laboratory.

• Notice

  A Notice establishes a management objective or requirement near term (time critical) or is short-term (transitory). Where appropriate, a notice may be incorporated into a new or revised policy.

Guidance & Procedures include the following kinds of documents:

• Directive

  Mandatory requirements and/or rules established by a high level SLAC officer or body, designed to ensure compliance with applicable policies.

• Guideline

  Non-mandatory, supplemental information about acceptable methods for implementing requirements found in directives, processes, procedures, work instructions, etc.

• Dissemination

  Roll-out of the policy, directives, procedures, etc., and supporting systems.

• Procedure

  A written, approved specification for execution of some activity - often composed of steps, using established methods or forms - designed to achieve a uniform approach to compliance with applicable policies or directives.

• Practice

  Local (directorate, divisional, departmental, etc.) adaptation for carrying out directives and procedures.

• Process

  A process is a series of inter-related activities that result in an outcome. Several procedures reflect a process.

• Work Instruction

  Work Instructions are step-by-step instructions for the accomplishment of a task by one person and are retained in the department or unit where the work is performed. Work Instructions are often referred to as Desk Procedures, Task Outlines or SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures).

• Implementation

  Working within limits set by policy. Development of directives, procedures, etc., and supporting systems and training and documentation may be necessary to effect policy successfully.

• Other

  Not clearly one of the types described above.

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