A compliance program's design is intended to help organizations achieve their stated goals. What term best describes this?

The term that best describes the design of a compliance program intended to help organizations achieve their stated goals is a "Process." In the context of compliance, a process encompasses the procedures and activities that are systematically implemented to ensure compliance with laws, regulations, and policies. It outlines the steps that need to be taken to achieve compliance goals and to facilitate continuous improvement within the organization.

A process is typically characterized by its repeatability, efficiency, and ability to be measured. It includes the planning, execution, monitoring, and evaluation phases necessary to ensure that the organization's compliance objectives are met effectively and sustainably.

While 'policy,' 'program,' and 'protocol' are also important components of compliance initiatives, they do not specifically capture the operational and systematic nature that 'process' does. Policies are guidelines that dictate the organization's stance on compliance matters, programs refer to the broader framework that encompasses various initiatives, and protocols represent specific instructions or methods to be followed in particular situations. Therefore, "Process" is the most fitting term to describe how a compliance program is structured and aims to accomplish its goals.