I put this together a while ago, may it be helpful for someone:

The goal of a well written policy is to clearly explain how to accomplish a specific process with minimal problem, aggravation or risk of non-compliance.

Characteristics of a Good Policy Document:

1/

(in no particular order, split up one idea per tweet to facilitate conversation, also feel free to suggest others)

(ahem) Characteristics of a Good Policy Document:

- Written using simple, clear, concise language. Avoid jargon and overly technical descriptions

- Endure across time and administrations; change infrequently and set the course for the foreseeable future

- Manifest and operationalize the mission, vision, values, and goals

- Apply broadly across the organization

- Ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations

- Promote operational efficiency and reduce bureaucracy

- Reduce organization risk

- Written assuming basic knowledge of the organization, but novice knowledge of the specific policy and procedure being described

- Consider why the user will need the information and what the user will likely be doing when looking for information