Guidelines
Guidelines set principles or best practices the organization, employees, and/or business units should follow under particular circumstances. Guidelines are not policies, but help facilitate compliance with policies and thus should comport with policies.
Policy
A policy is a formal rule statement of the University. Policies are usually broader in scope, addressing a single topic, to provide a framework for decision-making and ensure consistency with legal and ethical standards.
Procedure
A procedure outlines step-by-step instructions for implementing or following the rules set forth in a policy. A procedure also defines approved forms.
Protocol
Protocols are a specific set of steps to be followed in a particular situation. Protocols are more specific and detail-oriented, outlining the exact steps to be taken in a given scenario, and are designed to ensure efficiency and effectiveness in carrying out specific tasks or processes. (Example: Emergency response protocols.)
Standard
Specific, mandatory requirements or specifications for a process, procedure, or action. Provides concrete, measurable criteria for quality or performance. Standards generally relate to an overarching policy.