Creation & Maintenance of University Operating Policies

Purpose

Efficient, effective and transparent management of University operations requires uniform policies.

Statement of Policy

The Office of Administration and Finance will coordinate the maintenance of the University of Montana (UM) Operating policies and publish them here on this site. Links will be provided to sources of authority (“references”), both internal to the University, MUS system, and external, such as State and federal codes and regulations. Where applicable, internal links will also be provided to procedures. Operating Policies must be reviewed by the campus governance senates and the President’s Cabinet and approved by the President.

Definitions

University Operating Policies

• have campus-wide or University-wide application
• strengthen controls to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations
• enhance the university’s mission, promote operational efficiencies, and/or reduce institutional risk

Policies establish a framework for what will or will not be done at UM, and reflect the rules governing the implementation of campus processes. Only the policies as listed on the University Operating Policies will be applicable/enforced. Campus units might have policies specific to their units, but because of their unit-specific focus, these are not considered University Operating Policies but departmental policies.

Procedure

Procedures reflect current operational processes for completing tasks. Procedures contain details that include specific steps, process examples, forms to use, and contact information for assistance.