Guideline

General rule or principle that guides behavior.

rule principle standard

/ˈɡaɪdlaɪn/

Derived from 'guide' meaning to show or direct, and the suffix '-line' indicating a boundary or path.

Guidelines are like rules that help people know how to act in certain situations, such as a playground rule about sharing toys.

What is a guideline? It's a suggestion or recommendation, not a strict rule
Who uses guidelines? Businesses, organizations, and governments use them to provide direction
Are guidelines legally binding? Generally no, but they can influence decisions

recommendation advice direction

rule principle

protocol standard best practice

policy framework

regulatory social construct