Writing Policies Lab Write the Policy Document

Learning objective: By the end of this lesson, students will be able to transform a policy outline into a full-fledged Acceptable Use Policy document that is clear, specific, and balanced in its guidelines and language.

Exercise

Now it’s time to transform your outline into a full-fledged policy document.

Using your outline as a guide, draft the content for each section of your AUP. As you write, keep in mind the best practices covered in the module:

• Use clear, concise, and professional language.
• Be specific in your rules and guidelines.
• Provide examples to clarify concepts.
• Use active voice.
• Aim for a balance of comprehensiveness and simplicity.

Pay special attention to crafting your acceptable and unacceptable uses section, as this is the heart of your AUP. Some key areas to consider:

• Internet and email use.
• Social media and online conduct.

Your policy should also address at least 2 other important areas, such as:

• Data access, storage, and sharing.
• Password and authentication practices.
• Device and network security.
• Remote work and BYOD policies.

When your draft is complete, step away from it for a few minutes. Then, come back and reread it with fresh eyes. Edit for clarity, consistency, and alignment with your original requirements.