Algorithm vs. Procedure — What's the Difference?

A precise rule (or set of rules) specifying how to solve some problem.

A technique or method of handling or managing something.

A step-by-step procedure for solving a problem or accomplishing some end.

A series of actions conducted in a certain order or manner.

A formula or set of steps for solving a particular problem.

An established or official way of doing something.

A process or set of rules to be followed in calculations or other problem-solving operations.

A set of instructions for performing a task.

Any sequence of operations that can be precisely defined and mechanized.

Steps taken in a legal action.

In mathematics and computer science, an algorithm ( (listen)) is a finite sequence of well-defined, computer-implementable instructions, typically to solve a class of specific problems or to perform a computation. Algorithms are always unambiguous and are used as specifications for performing calculations, data processing, automated reasoning, and other tasks.

An established or official way of doing something

A finite set of unambiguous instructions that, given some set of initial conditions, can be performed in a prescribed sequence to achieve a certain goal and that has a recognizable set of end conditions.

A manner of proceeding; a way of performing or effecting something

(countable) A collection of ordered steps that solve a mathematical problem. A precise step-by-step plan for a computational procedure that possibly begins with an input value and yields an output value in a finite number of steps.

A series of steps taken to accomplish an end

Calculation with Arabic numerals; algorism.

(Computers) A set of instructions that performs a specific task; a subroutine or function.

A precise rule (or set of rules) specifying how to solve some problem; a set of procedures guaranteed to find the solution to a problem.

A set of established forms or methods for conducting the affairs of an organized body such as a business, club, or government.

A precise rule (or set of rules) specifying how to solve some problem

(Law) The set of rules under which litigation is conducted, especially in contrast to the set of substantive legal principles that determine the merits of legal controversies and disputes.

A particular method for performing a task.

A series of small tasks or steps taken to accomplish an end.

(uncountable) The set of established forms or methods of an organized body for accomplishing a certain task or tasks.

The steps taken in an action or other legal proceeding.

(obsolete) That which results; issue; product.

(computing) A subroutine or function coded to perform a specific task, but does not return a value.

(medicine) A surgical operation.

The act or manner of proceeding or moving forward; progress; process; operation; conduct.

A step taken; an act performed; a proceeding; the steps taken in an action or other legal proceeding.

That which results; issue; product.

A particular course of action intended to achieve a result;

A process or series of acts especially of a practical or mechanical nature involved in a particular form of work;

A set sequence of steps, part of larger computer program

A mode of conducting legal and parliamentary proceedings

Yes, a procedure can encompass multiple algorithms, especially in complex tasks where different computational steps are required.

Algorithms are typically tested through simulations, real-world applications, and benchmarking against established standards to ensure they perform as expected.

The rigidity ensures that an algorithm reliably produces the same results under the same conditions, which is critical for applications requiring high accuracy and consistency.

An employee onboarding procedure, which may adapt based on the role or the new hire's previous experience, is a good example.

Algorithms are foundational to artificial intelligence, enabling machines to learn from data, make decisions, and improve over time through machine learning techniques.

Algorithms are used in GPS for finding the best route, in search engines to retrieve information, and in online shopping recommendations.

In organizations, procedures standardize operations, ensuring consistency and efficiency across various functions and departments.

Flexibility in procedures allows them to be adapted to changing conditions and individual cases, enhancing their applicability in dynamic environments.

Cultural differences can significantly impact how procedures are interpreted and executed, requiring adaptations to fit local norms and practices.

No, some procedures can be automated, especially routine or repetitive tasks, but others may still require human judgment and intervention.

Procedures are often documented in manuals, guidelines, or digital formats and communicated through training sessions, workshops, or digital platforms.

Yes, ethical considerations include bias in algorithmic decisions, transparency of algorithmic processes, and the impact of automation on employment.

Yes, algorithms can be conceptualized on paper and used in non-computer tasks, like cooking recipes or instructions for manual calculations.

Challenges include ensuring complexity is manageable, the algorithm is efficient in terms of time and resources, and it can handle exceptions or unexpected inputs.

Procedures are often updated to improve effectiveness or adapt to new laws and technologies, whereas algorithm updates typically focus on increasing accuracy, efficiency, or handling new types of data.