Understanding the distinctions between procedures and methods is crucial in various fields, from business operations to scientific research. These terms often intertwine, yet they serve unique purposes and represent different aspects of processes in professional and technical environments.

What are Procedures?

Procedures are detailed, step-by-step guides that prescribe how to perform a specific task to achieve a desired outcome. They are designed to standardize operations, ensuring consistency and compliance with standards or regulations across an organization or in specific projects.

Examples of Procedures:

1. A checklist for onboarding new employees in a company.
2. The sequence of steps in an emergency evacuation plan.
3. Standard operating procedures (SOPs) for handling customer complaints in a service center.

What are Methods?

Methods refer to a systematic way of doing something, often involving a particular technique or approach to achieve a result. Methods are more about the "how" in terms of approach and theory, rather than the specific steps. They can be flexible and adapted depending on the situation or intended outcome.

Examples of Methods:

1. The scientific method, which involves observation, hypothesis formulation, experimentation, and conclusion.
2. Agile methodology in software development, focusing on iterative progress through short sprints.
3. Teaching methods like the Montessori method, which emphasizes child-centered learning.

Difference Between Procedures and Methods: 

Basis	Procedures	Methods
Definition	Set instructions that describe exactly how to perform a task.	General techniques or strategies used to achieve a task.
Purpose	To ensure consistency and compliance in repetitive tasks.	To provide a framework that can be adapted to solve problems or complete tasks.
Flexibility	Low, as procedures are rigid and specific to ensure standardization.	High, as methods can be adapted to different situations.
Focus	On the sequence of actions and exact execution.	On the overall approach and theoretical framework.
Scope	Narrow, specific to tasks requiring uniformity.	Broad, applicable to a wide range of situations.
Examples	A procedural guide for assembling a machine part.	Research methods in psychology, such as case studies or experiments.