Procedure vs. Methodology — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on September 26, 2023
Procedure refers to a specific sequence of actions or steps taken to accomplish a task, while methodology is the systematic, theoretical analysis of the methods applied to a field of study.
Difference Between Procedure and Methodology
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Procedure and methodology, while related concepts, differ primarily in scope, specificity, and application. A procedure is a fixed, step-by-step sequence of activities or course of action, each step being a response to a particular situation, designed to achieve a specific outcome, like a laboratory experiment or medical operation procedure. It is explicit and precise, leaving little to no room for variation. In contrast, methodology refers to a system of methods and principles used in a particular discipline. It involves the theoretical analysis and development of the methods appropriate to a field of study, representing a set of strategies, procedures, and techniques used to collect and analyze data.
A procedure is task-oriented, focusing on the “how-to,” providing clear instructions on how to perform a specific task or activity. It’s usually concise and to the point, aiming to achieve consistency and accuracy in performing specific tasks, such as cooking recipes or emergency evacuation procedures. Conversely, a methodology is more comprehensive and thought-oriented, addressing the “why” and “when” behind the selection of particular methods. It reflects the theoretical underpinning of the understanding of the research or study, dictating the tools and techniques to be used, like the scientific methodology, which involves systematic observation, measurement, and experimentation.
In terms of detail and complexity, procedures are generally more straightforward and simpler, focusing solely on the actions required to achieve a specific result. They are practical and actionable, often documented in manuals or instruction guides, ensuring that a task is carried out consistently and effectively, regardless of the individual performing it. Methodologies, however, are more complex and abstract, encompassing various methods and their underlying philosophy and principles. They are reflective and evaluative, examining the suitability and effectiveness of the chosen methods in relation to the subject matter and research objectives.
Concerning application and usage, a procedure is universally applicable across various fields and domains, providing practical guidance and standardized practices in both professional and everyday contexts. It is invaluable in situations where precision and reliability are crucial, such as surgical procedures in medicine or safety procedures in aviation. Methodology, on the other hand, is predominantly used in academic and research contexts, guiding the research design and approach, ensuring the validity and reliability of the research findings. It forms the backbone of any research study, linking the research questions to the findings.
In essence, while both procedure and methodology guide actions and approaches, they differ in their focus, depth, and application. Procedure is specific, practical, and action-oriented, detailing the steps to perform a task, whereas methodology is broad, theoretical, and reflective, outlining the overall approach and rationale behind the chosen methods.
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Comparison Chart
Focus
Specific steps and actions to achieve a task
Theoretical analysis and development of methods in a discipline
Scope
Detailed sequence of actions for a particular task
Comprehensive system of methods and principles in a field
Complexity
Generally straightforward and simpler
More abstract, complex, and involves reflection and evaluation
Application
Universally applicable, practical guidance in various fields
Predominantly academic, guides research design and approach
Detail
Explicit, precise, and to the point
More comprehensive and addresses the rationale behind methods
Compare with Definitions
Procedure
A series of steps taken to accomplish an end.
The emergency procedure was put into action immediately after the alarm sounded.
Methodology
A set of practices, techniques, procedures, and rules used by those who work in a discipline.
A sound methodology is crucial for the success of any research study.
Procedure
An established or official way of doing something
The police are now reviewing procedures
Parliamentary procedure
Methodology
A system of methods used in a particular area of study or activity.
The research project had a detailed methodology to ensure reliability and validity.
Procedure
A manner of proceeding; a way of performing or effecting something
Standard procedure.
Methodology
The branch of philosophy concerned with the science of method and procedure.
The study delved into the methodology of social sciences, exploring various research techniques.
Procedure
A series of steps taken to accomplish an end
A medical procedure.
Evacuation procedures.
Methodology
The theoretical analysis of the methods and principles applied to a field of study.
The methodology section of the paper clearly outlined the research approach.
Procedure
(Computers) A set of instructions that performs a specific task; a subroutine or function.
Methodology
The study and theoretical analysis of the methods applied to a field of study.
Scholars often debate the validity of different methodologies.
Procedure
A set of established forms or methods for conducting the affairs of an organized body such as a business, club, or government.
Methodology
Methodology is "'a contextual framework' for research, a coherent and logical scheme based on views, beliefs, and values, that guides the choices researchers [or other users] make".It comprises the theoretical analysis of the body of methods and principles associated with a branch of knowledge such that the methodologies employed from differing disciplines vary depending on their historical development. This creates a continuum of methodologies that stretch across competing understandings of how knowledge and reality are best understood.
Procedure
(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.
Methodology
A system of methods used in a particular area of study or activity
Courses in research methodology and practice
A methodology for investigating the concept of focal points
Procedure
A particular method for performing a task.
Methodology
A body of practices, procedures, and rules used by those who work in a discipline or engage in an inquiry; a set of working methods
The methodology of genetic studies.
A poll marred by faulty methodology.
Procedure
A series of small tasks or steps taken to accomplish an end.
Methodology
The study or theoretical analysis of such working methods.
Procedure
(uncountable) The set of established forms or methods of an organized body for accomplishing a certain task or tasks.
Ensure that you follow procedure when accessing customers' personal information.
Methodology
The branch of logic that deals with the general principles of the formation of knowledge.
Procedure
The steps taken in an action or other legal proceeding.
Methodology
The study of methods used in a field.
Research methodology
Procedure
(obsolete) That which results; issue; product.
Methodology
(loosely) A collection of methods, practices, procedures and rules used by those who work in some field.
Agile methodology
Procedure
(computing) A subroutine or function coded to perform a specific task, but does not return a value.
Methodology
The implementation of such methods etc.
Procedure
(medicine) A surgical operation.
Methodology
The science of method or arrangement; a treatise on method.
Procedure
The act or manner of proceeding or moving forward; progress; process; operation; conduct.
Methodology
The branch of philosophy that analyzes the principles and procedures of inquiry in a particular discipline
Procedure
A step taken; an act performed; a proceeding; the steps taken in an action or other legal proceeding.
Methodology
The system of methods followed in a particular discipline
Procedure
That which results; issue; product.
Procedure
A particular course of action intended to achieve a result;
The procedure of obtaining a driver's license
It was a process of trial and error
Procedure
A process or series of acts especially of a practical or mechanical nature involved in a particular form of work;
The operations in building a house
Certain machine tool operations
Procedure
A set sequence of steps, part of larger computer program
Procedure
A mode of conducting legal and parliamentary proceedings
Procedure
A sequence of actions conducted in a certain order or manner.
Following the correct procedure is crucial for accurate results.
Procedure
A fixed, detailed plan of a surgical operation or experiment.
The procedure was explained in detail to ensure everyone understood each step.
Procedure
A course of action intended to achieve a result.
Proper procedure must be followed to ensure safety and compliance.
Procedure
The established or official way of doing something.
The company has a strict procedure for dealing with complaints.
Common Curiosities
Is a procedure more specific and action-oriented than a methodology?
Yes, a procedure is specific, detailing precise steps for a task, while a methodology is broader and more theoretical.
Is a procedure universally applicable across various fields?
Yes, a procedure is universally applicable, providing practical guidance in both professional and everyday contexts.
Is methodology more complex and comprehensive than a procedure?
Yes, methodology is more complex and comprehensive, involving the analysis and development of methods in a field of study.
Can a procedure be detailed and explicit in outlining steps of a task?
Yes, a procedure is detailed and explicit, outlining specific steps to perform a task accurately and consistently.
Can a procedure be applied to various tasks like surgical operations or safety measures?
Yes, a procedure can be applied to various tasks, ensuring precision and reliability in activities like surgical operations or safety measures.
Does a methodology discuss the rationale behind choosing certain methods?
Yes, a methodology discusses the rationale and theoretical considerations behind choosing certain methods.
Does methodology include a theoretical analysis of the applied methods?
Yes, methodology involves a theoretical analysis of the methods applied to a field of study.
Is a procedure usually simpler and more straightforward than a methodology?
Yes, procedures are usually simpler, focusing solely on the actions required to achieve a specific result.
Is methodology predominantly used in academic and research contexts?
Yes, methodology is predominantly used in academic and research contexts to guide research design and approach.
Does methodology examine the suitability and effectiveness of chosen methods?
Yes, methodology examines the suitability and effectiveness of chosen methods in relation to the research objectives.
Can a procedure ensure consistency in performing specific tasks?
Yes, a procedure ensures that a task is carried out consistently and effectively, regardless of the individual performing it.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.