Doctrine vs. Policy vs. Tradition

Two nights ago, Michelle and I were in Institute and were discussing Mosiah 9-16 and got on the discussion of the wicked traditions of the fathers of the Lamanites. Which led to a discussion of how there are a lot of church "traditions" that didn't have any foundation in doctrine and we need to be careful not to confuse the two, although many times they don't cause any contention.

I brought up the complication of church policies, which are not technically doctrine, because they aren't necessarily world wide, nor are simply traditions, because they do come as instruction from our church leaders and are to be followed. They also are much more likely to change over time.

A couple church policies that first came to mind are: 1) Blacks not receiving the priesthood. It wasn't ever a doctrine, but a church policy. 2) Missionaries outside the polynesian islands are not to wear lava lavas, but they can in the islands, as well as wearing sandals. 3) Temple workers are not to have beards. 4) Priesthood holders wearing white shirts while passing the sacrament. 5) Taking the sacrament with the right hand.

So not doing these things doesn't invalidate them (when related to an ordinance). And blacks that received the priesthood before them not receiving the priesthood became policy were not stripped of their priesthood.

So your thoughts on the importance of doctrine vs. policy vs. tradition, or just thoughts on the whole deal please! And if I made any mistakes, please correct me!