Most Important Tool at the Board Table

Ready to convene the board meeting. Agendas are set at every seat. Coffee and beverages are nearby.  The gavel is laid at the elected president’s chair.  

The meeting starts with welcomes and updates.   Committees and directors offer ideas and motions are seconded. What’s missing?

What’s missing?

The most important item at the board table is the STRATEGIC PLAN.  Directors should be encouraged to regularly ask, “How does this advance our mission? How does your motion relate to our strategic plan?”

The plan should always be on the board table. It is the board’s GPS (Goals, Priorities and Strategies.)  For directors who are quick to “chase squirrels,” remind them the plan is their guardrails.

Many plans take the form of multiple pages or look like to-do lists. Remember the adage, “Few volunteers have time to read past page 3 or any document.”  

Every plan can be transformed into a “placemat” format. Set the placemat in front of every director; in the center of the board table; or enlarge and display it on the conference room wall.  It includes the essentials of mission, goals and strategies that are the basis for good governance and outcomes.