Procedure vs Process
A process is a series of activities that transform inputs into outcomes, while a procedure is a detailed set of instructions for completing a specific task within that process.
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What is the Difference Between Procedure and Process?
When it comes to procedure vs process, the difference really boils down to scope and detail. A process describes the "what" of your operations: a connected set of activities moving from a starting point toward a defined outcome. A procedure tackles the "how": those specific steps someone actually follows to get a single task done within that bigger picture.
Here's a way to think about it. A process is like a map showing you the route from point A to point B. A procedure? That's the turn-by-turn directions for one stretch of the journey. The ISO definitions back this up. They describe a process as "a set of correlated or interactive activities that transform inputs into outputs," while a procedure is "the specified way of carrying out an activity or process." Organizations often document procedures as standard operating procedures to ensure consistency.
This distinction matters quite a bit when you're building documentation. Processes usually get captured as flowcharts or diagrams showing how work flows through an organization. Procedures end up as written, step-by-step instructions explaining exactly how to handle each activity. Most organizations need both: processes for the strategic planning and oversight side, procedures for keeping execution consistent on the ground. Understanding the workflow within each process helps identify where detailed procedures are most needed.
Key Characteristics of Process vs Procedure
- Scope: A process spans multiple tasks and often crosses department lines. A procedure zeroes in on one task done by one person.
- Level of Detail: Processes sketch out stages and decision points at a high level. Procedures get into the weeds with granular steps, tool specs, and quality checks.
- Audience: Processes tend to be used by managers and analysts doing the planning work. Procedures are for the frontline folks actually doing the tasks.
- Format: Processes lend themselves to flowcharts or diagrams. Procedures typically take the form of written documents with numbered steps.
- Flexibility: Processes can bend to fit different situations. Procedures aim for consistency and should generally be followed as written.
Process vs Procedure Examples
Example 1: Customer Onboarding
Your customer onboarding process might cover stages like account setup, welcome communication, scheduling training sessions, and the first check-in call. Each of these represents a stage in a broader journey. Now, the procedure for sending that welcome email? It would spell out which template to grab, what personalization fields to fill in, the right timing for sending, and how to log it properly in the CRM.
Example 2: Manufacturing Quality Control
A quality control process typically covers incoming inspection, in-process checks, final inspection, and documentation. The procedure for that final inspection would get specific: which measurements to take, what the acceptable tolerance ranges are, calibration requirements for gauges, and exactly how to record results on the inspection sheet.
Procedure vs Process Comparison
| Aspect | Process | Procedure |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Series of activities producing an outcome | Step-by-step instructions for one task |
| Question Answered | What needs to happen? | How do we do it? |
| Scope | Multiple tasks, often cross-functional | Single task, single role |
| Best Documented As | Flowchart or process map | Written instructions with steps |
| Primary Users | Managers, analysts, process owners | Operators, frontline workers |
| ISO Definition | Activities that transform inputs to outputs | Specified way to carry out an activity |
How Glitter AI Helps with Processes and Procedures
Glitter AI takes a lot of the friction out of both process mapping and procedure creation. For documenting a process, teams can record their workflow from start to finish, and Glitter generates a visual overview of each stage. When it comes to procedures, subject matter experts just record themselves performing a task. Glitter then produces step-by-step documentation complete with screenshots and instructions.
What makes this approach useful is how it connects the strategic view with the tactical details. You end up with process documentation showing the big picture alongside procedures that enable consistent execution. And it takes a fraction of the time that manual documentation would require.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a procedure and a process?
A process is a series of activities that produce an outcome and answers 'what needs to happen.' A procedure is a detailed set of instructions that answers 'how to do a specific task' within that process.
What is an example of a procedure vs process?
The hiring process includes steps like posting jobs, screening candidates, and conducting interviews. The procedure for screening candidates details exactly how to review resumes, which criteria to use, and how to log decisions.
Which comes first, process or procedure?
The process comes first. Organizations define their processes to understand what activities are needed, then create procedures to document how each activity should be performed.
Can a procedure exist without a process?
Technically yes, but procedures work best when they connect to a larger process. Standalone procedures can become isolated and may not align with organizational goals.
How do you document a process vs a procedure?
Processes are typically documented as flowcharts or process maps showing stages and decision points. Procedures are written as numbered step-by-step instructions with specific details for each task.
Why is it important to understand the difference between process and procedure?
Understanding the difference helps organizations create the right documentation for each purpose. Processes guide strategic planning while procedures ensure consistent execution at the task level.
What is the ISO definition of process vs procedure?
ISO defines a process as 'a set of correlated or interactive activities that transform inputs into outputs.' A procedure is defined as 'the specified way of carrying out an activity or process.'
Who uses processes and who uses procedures?
Managers, analysts, and process owners use process documentation for planning and optimization. Frontline workers and operators use procedures for day-to-day task execution.
How do process and procedure work together?
Processes provide the strategic framework showing what needs to happen. Procedures fill in the tactical details explaining how to execute each task. Together they create complete operational documentation.
Should every process have procedures?
Not every task within a process needs a formal procedure. Procedures are most valuable for complex tasks, tasks with compliance requirements, tasks performed by multiple people, or tasks where consistency is critical.
Turn any process into a step-by-step guide