Title: Policy on Policies
Number: AP 1.08
Adopted: November 2025
Reviewed:
Revised:
Definitions of Policy, Process, Procedure and Practice
A policy is a high-level guideline or rule that guides decision-making processes and actions. Policies outline the College’s rules and expectations on a specific topic related to its activities. Policies are divided into two categories: (1) board policies, which guide the Nicolet College Board of Trustees, and (2) administrative policies, which guide operational processes and actions.
A process is a series of activities or workflows that produce a specific result. Processes give structure and direction to help the College work toward a goal.
A procedure is step-by-step instructions that help employees do routine tasks. Procedures help create efficiency, quality and consistency in work. Procedures are documented separately from policies and referenced in the policy library.
A practice is a guideline to fill in the grey areas of a procedure, which might vary among teams.
Naming and Numbering Conventions
AP + X [Group Number] + XX [Policy Number Within the Group]
Examples: AP 1.01, AP 2.10, AP 9.06
Policies are organized by their topic, and each policy group has a dedicated number.
1 – General Institutional
2 – Student Services
3 – Safety and Security
4 – Human Resources
5 – Finance
6 – Facilities
7 – Information Technology
8 – Public Relations
9 – Academics
Development, Review, and Revision
Policy stewards are the positions accountable for the development, review and revision of policies and associated procedures. Stewards will ensure review of each policy every three years, or more frequently if needed.
Policy development and review processes must include input and/or feedback from employees and/or students most impacted by the issue.
Before administrative approval, policies must be open to review by all employees for a period of at least ten business days to ensure a rigorous review process and transparency in policy development.
Archive
The College will maintain an archive of retired policies and past versions of policies.
Related Policies and Procedures:
- PR 1.08.01: Policy Creation
- BP 2.20: Board of Trustees’ Policy on Policies