7 Steps to Better Written
Policies and Procedures

By Stephen Page,
Copyright: 2011
ISBN: 1929065248, 136 pp,
Pre-Written P&P Samples Included

The writing format is at the heart of any policies and procedures program. This book focuses entirely on a method to lay out policy and procedures into a clear and decisive page layout with seven (7) section headings, hence, the title, 7 Steps...NOW an 8th step is added when you get the free writing format template with your PDF order.

The best value is to purchase the four-book set of PDF books as you get 868 pages plus a free, new book (380+ pages) on writing exceptional policies and procedures. A new writing template with an 8th section heading is included; this Microsoft Word formatted template contains functional styles so you can start writing right away. This writing method is intuitive and requires minimal training.

Keep in mind that the writing format is only as good as the methods you use to research, write, review publish, and communicate your policies and procedures. Be careful not to assume that you can write better simply by using a standard writing format. You must learn the methods, techniques, and tools necessary for you to understand the interrelationships among your company's environment, technology, resources, and culture.

The seven sections of this modular, page layout writing format, are shown below.

1. Purpose
2. Revision History
3. Persons Affected
4. Policy
5. Definitions
6. Responsibilities
7. Procedures

With this page layout, you'll find a choice of headers, footers, numbering, and writing styles. The writing format is your roadmap; it will help your targeted audiences quickly understand the goals and objectives of a policy or procedure and lead the readers through the document from start to finish.

If readers cannot understand a policy or procedure document, then communication is lost.

Recently, I added an eighth section, "Document Approvals," and re-ordered the sections as shown below.

1. Purpose
2. Persons Affected
3. Policy
4. Definitions
5. Responsibilities
6. Procedures
7. Document Approvals
8. Change History

If you're going to buy this book by itself, your best bet is to purchase both the "Establishing a System of Policies and Procedures" and this book, "7 Steps to Better Written Policies and Procedures," as each book complements one another. Buy both books for $36.75