Governance vs. Governing

Attribute	Governance	Governing
Definition	The act or process of governing or overseeing the control and direction of something	The exercise of authority in a political unit
Focus	Broader and more encompassing, involving the overall management and direction of an organization or system	More specific and focused on the day-to-day decision-making and implementation of policies
Scope	Includes setting goals, making strategic decisions, and ensuring accountability	Includes implementing policies, managing resources, and enforcing regulations
Responsibility	Lies with the governing body or board of directors	Lies with the executives, managers, and officials who carry out the decisions of the governing body

Definition

Governance refers to the process of governing or managing a system or organization. It involves making decisions, setting goals, and establishing policies to guide the actions of individuals within the system. Governing, on the other hand, refers to the act of actually carrying out those decisions and policies. It involves implementing strategies, enforcing rules, and overseeing the day-to-day operations of the system.

Scope

Governance typically has a broader scope than governing. It encompasses the overall structure and framework within which decisions are made and actions are taken. This includes the establishment of rules, regulations, and procedures that govern the behavior of individuals within the system. Governing, on the other hand, focuses more on the specific tasks and responsibilities involved in carrying out those rules and regulations.

Authority

In terms of authority, governance is often associated with higher-level decision-making and policy-setting. It involves the participation of key stakeholders, such as board members, executives, and government officials, who have the authority to make decisions that impact the entire system. Governing, on the other hand, is more about implementing those decisions and policies at a lower level, often carried out by managers, supervisors, and frontline staff.

Accountability

Accountability is a key aspect of both governance and governing. In governance, accountability is often focused on ensuring that decision-makers are held responsible for their actions and that they are acting in the best interests of the system as a whole. Governing, on the other hand, involves holding individuals accountable for carrying out their assigned tasks and responsibilities in accordance with the established rules and regulations.

Flexibility

When it comes to flexibility, governance tends to be more rigid and structured, as it involves setting the overall framework and guidelines for decision-making and action. Governing, on the other hand, requires a certain level of flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances and unforeseen challenges. It involves making on-the-spot decisions and adjustments to ensure that the system operates effectively and efficiently.

Communication

Communication is essential in both governance and governing. In governance, effective communication is necessary to ensure that key stakeholders are informed about decisions, policies, and changes that may impact the system. Governing, on the other hand, requires clear and timely communication between individuals at all levels of the organization to ensure that tasks are carried out efficiently and effectively.

Decision-making

Decision-making is a central aspect of both governance and governing. In governance, decisions are typically made by a group of individuals who have the authority to set policies and guidelines for the system. Governing, on the other hand, involves making day-to-day decisions that impact the operations and performance of the system. These decisions are often made by managers and supervisors who are responsible for overseeing specific areas of the organization.

Conclusion

In conclusion, governance and governing are two interconnected processes that are essential for the effective management of systems and organizations. While governance focuses on setting the overall framework and guidelines for decision-making, governing involves carrying out those decisions and policies on a day-to-day basis. Both governance and governing play a crucial role in ensuring that systems operate efficiently, effectively, and in accordance with established rules and regulations.