Thread:Policy or guideline? (3)

Hi Anil,

I think we may be using a different interpretation on the meaning of policy versus guideline, hence the need for definitions :-).

I'm using the distinction between policy and guideline as it is used in WP:


 * Policies are primarily decisive. They represent firm positions, often on common disagreements, and endorse processes, actions, and guidelines.
 * Guidelines are primarily advisory. They advise on how to prevent or avoid causing problems, and on how to apply and execute policy under specific circumstances. Guidelines are supported by policies. Where a guideline appears to conflict with a policy, the policy takes precedence.

So I'm not distinguishing between the length of the document but rather the level of "authority" to distinguish between the two categories of documentation.

Therefore I see the Consensus document as a guideline which supports and advises WikiEducators on decision making processes when developing content. In the event of an issue that can't be resoloved, we may need a process of voluntary mediation (another guideline -- but could perhaps be included in the consensus document) and the arbitration which is a formal decision making process. In this case, we would need a policy on arbitration because this is a decisive and authoritative decision.

Thoughts?