000.5 Policy on Policies

000.5 Policy on Policies

A. Background

Since Furman University is committed to decentralized, participatory management, there is a need for formulating, authorizing, distributing, enforcing, retaining, reviewing, and revising appropriate policies. In a decentralized system where plans and decisions are made as close to the point of implementation as possible, those in positions of responsibility must be given the necessary information and guidance to enable them to make the best decisions possible. A policy is a statement of general intent indicating what is permissible or expected at each level of authority. It is a standing decision that allows one to exercise both judgment and discretion, yet provides the guidance needed to maintain consistency and continuity in the management process.

B. Policy

Furman's policy on policies is that the person assigned the responsibility for a department, program, activity, or function is inherently responsible for seeing that appropriate policies pertaining to his or her area of responsibility are developed and maintained, provided that they do not conflict with or contravene policies issued by a higher authority. The individual initiating a policy is responsible for reviewing written drafts with appropriate individuals responsible to him and with those individuals in parallel positions who might be affected by the policy. Prior to distribution, the policy must be approved by the person to whom the initiator of the policy reports. Disputes or conflicts concerning proposed policies affecting more than one department will be referred to the next higher authority in each chain of command until the issue is resolved. When the determination of policy is the responsibility of a group such as the faculty, Association of Furman Students, or a committee rather than an individual, the same basic principles apply. The policy on policies does not preclude the issuance of directives by the President.

C. Guidelines