Policy Framework
Definition
A policy framework is a structured hierarchy of governance documents -- policies, standards, procedures, and guidelines -- that establishes the rules, expectations, and processes for an organization's security and compliance program. The framework provides the foundation that auditors evaluate first, because without documented policies, there is no baseline against which to measure compliance.
Document Hierarchy
Policies
High-level statements of management intent and direction. Define what must be done without specifying how. Approved by executive leadership. Example: 'All access to production systems must use multi-factor authentication.'
Standards
Mandatory requirements that implement policies with specific, measurable criteria. Define the minimum acceptable baseline. Example: 'MFA must use TOTP or FIDO2 hardware tokens; SMS is not permitted.'
Procedures
Step-by-step instructions for carrying out specific tasks in compliance with policies and standards. Define how to perform activities. Example: 'To enroll in MFA, navigate to Settings > Security > Enable MFA.'
Guidelines
Recommended best practices that are advisory rather than mandatory. Provide additional context and suggestions for achieving compliance. Example: 'Consider using a hardware security key for accounts with privileged access.'
Core Policies for Compliance
Information Security Policy -- overarching policy establishing scope, commitment, and framework
Access Control Policy -- who can access what and how access is managed
Data Classification Policy -- categories of data sensitivity and handling requirements
Incident Response Policy -- how the organization detects and responds to security incidents
Risk Management Policy -- approach to identifying and treating security risks
Change Management Policy -- processes for requesting and approving system changes
Acceptable Use Policy -- permitted and prohibited uses of organizational resources
Vendor Management Policy -- requirements for third-party security assessment