A set of written rules explains how individuals working in a specific profession or organization must behave. It is a detailed guide delineating acceptable conduct, adherence to standards, and the application of ethical principles within the professional context. An example is a document that outlines the standards and procedures for ensuring data privacy within a healthcare organization.
The implementation of such guidelines ensures consistency and quality in service delivery. It also serves to protect individuals and the organization from potential legal or ethical violations. Historically, these formalized sets of guidelines have evolved from industry best practices and legal requirements to provide clear direction and promote accountability.