What do regulatory frameworks require an organization to document?

Regulatory frameworks typically necessitate that organizations document a comprehensive array of policies, standards, procedures, practices, and guidelines. This requirement ensures compliance with various laws and regulations that govern their industry. By documenting these elements, organizations create a clear reference for employees, which helps maintain consistency in operations and adherence to legal and regulatory mandates.

Policies define the organization's stance on various issues, standards set the benchmarks for performance and compliance, procedures outline the steps necessary to implement policies, practices are the day-to-day operations following these procedures, and guidelines provide additional advice on best practices. This holistic documentation is crucial for demonstrating accountability and transparency, which regulatory bodies require to assess compliance and conduct audits effectively.

In contrast, focusing solely on financial transactions, employee performance evaluations, or marketing strategies fails to encompass the breadth of documentation that regulatory frameworks demand for comprehensive governance and risk management.