Why it’s NOT called a “Policy and Procedures Manual”

Policies are the wisdom of the board. They often address financial issues, public records, managing conflicts, etc. An organizations usually has 35 to 50 policies included in their board manual. Many policies align with IRS Form 990, i.e. whistle-blower, public records, conflicts of interest, etc.  

Procedures are the domain of the staff. Staff document processes as best practices to create an operating manual. This manual supports consistent staff applications and seamless transitions.    

Giving the board of directors a book called POLICIES AND PROCEDURES may mistakenly invite leaders to reach beyond their governance roles into oversight of administrative tasks. 

Change the name P & P Manual to become the board’s Leadership Manual, Leadership Handbook or Board Playbook.    Keep the board focus on governance and vision, not day to day organization procedures. 

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