A well-written agenda for board meetings is among the most crucial elements to a successful and productive board meeting. An agenda that is well-written provides a framework for discussion, decision-making, and enables everyone involved to leave the meeting with the same knowing what was discussed and determined. An agenda that is well-organized for a board meeting will assist you in moving quickly between topics, avoid getting bogged Board Management Software in details, and help make meetings more engaging.
Begin with the most crucial items. Start with the most important items on your agenda. This will allow the leadership to get feedback and start discussions while participants are fresh in their minds. This approach can also motivate your attendees to be punctual because they are aware that the most engaging conversations will start right away.
Examine all reports presented by committees, board members, and executives. It is essential to follow-up on any issues that could arise. It also helps to avoid spending time in meetings reviewing old business issues that should have been dealt with by the board’s various committees.
Dedicate enough time to discussions and strategic planning. This is essential to ensuring that the board can guide the company effectively. Make sure you include a section for both “old business” as well as “new business” so that the board gets the opportunity to review all follow-ups and strategies that are new.
Long reports and other routine issues can impede meetings and divert board members from the most important issues. Utilizing the “parking lot” or “consent agenda” can help cut down on the amount of time devoted to these items.