1) "Institutions are structures and mechanisms of social order and cooperation governing the behavior of two or more individuals. Institutions are identified with a social purpose and permanence, transcending individual human lives and intentions, and with the making and enforcing of rules governing cooperative human behavior." Source and further information: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Institution 2) "An organization (or organisation — see spelling differences) is a social arrangement which pursues collective goals, which controls its own performance, and which has a boundary separating it from its environment. The word itself is derived from the Greek word ὄργανον (organon) meaning tool. The term is used in both daily and scientific English in multiple ways." Source and further information: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Organization ------------ ADDED ---------------- That was the encyclopedy part. Now the dictionary part. Both terms have many different meanings: 1) "organization: 1. (uncountable) The quality of being organized. This painting shows little organization at first glance, but little by little the structure becomes clear. 2. (countable) A group of people or other legal entities with an explicit purpose and written rules. In response to the crisis, the nations in the region formed an organization. If you want to be part of this organization, you have to follow its rules. 3. (countable) A group of people consciously cooperating. Over time, the spontaneous movement had become an organization." 2) "institution 1. An established organisation, especially one dedicated to education, public service, culture or the care of the destitute, poor etc. 2. The building which houses such an organisation. 3. A custom or practice of a society or community - marriage for example. (Informal) - A person long established with a certain place or position. 4. The act of instituting." 3) Now take the first meaning of institution, and you have a difference in concise form. However this is just the difference between meaning 1 of institution and, I would say, meaning 2 of organization. I assume that is what you wanted to know?

An institution is a place where people are sent when their organisation collapses.