Policy Example

If one of your sections is on Internet policy, for example, you could ask a team member to develop specific policy and procedure for this topic.

Ask the individual or group to come up with a written reason for the policy, a policy statement and a procedure for action if the policy is not followed.

Here is an example:

XYZ Company makes Internet access available to its employees where it is relevant and useful for their jobs. XYZ recognizes that the Internet is a powerful tool that can bring significant benefits your work. However, each XYZ employee must understand how to use it responsibly, safely, and legally.

This Internet use policy is designed to:

reduce online security risks.

inform staff members of what they can and cannot do online at work

ensure employees do not view inappropriate content at work

help the company satisfy legal obligations regarding Internet use

Policy scope

This policy applies to all staff, contractors, and volunteers who use XYZ's Internet while at work. It applies whether Internet access takes place on company premises, while traveling for business, or while working from home. The policy applies to Internet usage on any company-owned device, or on any device that is connected to company networks or systems.

XYZ Internet Policy:

Use of the Internet by XYZ is permitted and encouraged where it supports the goals and objectives of the company. Job-related activities include research and educational tasks that may be found via the Internet, which would help in an employee's role.

All Internet data that is composed, transmitted, and/or received by XYZ computer systems is considered to belong to XYZ and is recognized as part of its official data. It is therefore subject to disclosure for legal reasons, or to other appropriate third parties.

The equipment, services and technology used to access the Internet are the property of XYZ, and the company reserves the right to monitor Internet traffic and monitor and access data that is composed, sent, or received through its online connections

Emails sent via the company email system should not contain inappropriate content, including, though not restricted to, the use of vulgar or harassing language/images.

All sites and downloads may be monitored and/or blocked by XYZ, if they are deemed to be harmful and/or not productive to business.

Unacceptable Internet use includes, but is not limited to:

installing of software such as instant messaging

sending or posting harassing, discriminating, or threatening messages or images

using XYZ computers for any form of fraud or piracy

using someone else's password without permission

downloading or copying copyrighted software or files without authorization

sharing confidential material outside XYZ

hacking into unauthorized websites

sending or posting information that defames the company, its customers and colleagues, or its products/services.

introducing malicious software or otherwise jeopardizing the security of the organization's systems

sending or posting chain letters, solicitations, or advertisements unrelated to XYZ purposes

expressing personal viewpoints as those of XYZ

If an employee is unsure about what is considered acceptable Internet usage, then he/she should ask his/her supervisor for guidance.

Think about it. If your employees helped to write this policy, then you have already gone a long way toward its full compliance.

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