MEL, CDL an DDG
Well spoken Nitpicker, you are correct. If I may be so bold to add to your comments the MEL is a based on the Master MEL which is FAA approved. The CDL is part of a Boeing AFM and again is FAA approved. The Dispatch Deviation Guide from Boeing is NOT FAA approved, but does give you much more info, especially with regards to maintenance requirements and Flight Operations requirements. You can use the DDG for the aircraft if so approved by your authority, but you need to know your aircraft as the DDG covers the entire series of say the B747 classic. MEL justs give the minimum required for dispatch. Most companies will allow flight crew to reference it prior to takeoff, but you are correct in the fact that the FCOM procedures dictate.
Safe flying