A well-run board meeting is a foundational aspect of good governance because it allows to have a thoughtful discussion and make decisions that will propel your organization forward. It is essential to have a a dynamic and thorough discussion, whether it is discussing strategic goals programs’ successes and challenges, and/or important legal issues. Well-planned meetings with an informative agenda and clear communications about the process of making decisions will be efficient and efficient.
1. It is important to ensure that the agenda is published prior to the meeting and accessible to all participants.
It is impossible for a board to hold a successful board meeting if members are scrambling for critical materials while they are being discussed or, even more importantly, if the material is not made available in advance. This can be avoided by distributing the agenda and all necessary materials at least 3-4 days ahead of the meeting.
2. Start the meeting at the right time.
Board members are at their most productive when they are prepared for the meeting, so it is essential to ensure that the board meeting is held promptly. This can be achieved by making sure that all relevant material are included in the agenda and by limiting the number of discussion topics to those items most critical to the meeting. It could also be beneficial to arrange the meeting outside the boardroom such as at a conference site or breakfast gatherings, to offer an opportunity for a change of scene and encourage new ideas and discussions.