What is a defining characteristic of mandatory policies?

A defining characteristic of mandatory policies is that they are required by law. This means that organizations must adhere to these policies to comply with legal standards and regulations. Such policies are often put in place to ensure that organizations operate within the boundaries of the law, protect the rights of individuals, and maintain public safety or welfare. For instance, policies related to workplace safety, non-discrimination, and data protection are mandatory because failing to implement them could result in legal penalties.

Mandatory policies differ significantly from optional guidelines, which organizations can choose to adopt or reject based on their specific needs or circumstances. Additionally, while communication of policies to employees is essential for compliance, the characteristic that defines mandatory policies is their legal requirement. They are not simply developed internally without regulatory oversight; they are informed by external laws that necessitate their existence and implementation.