A comprehensive approach is required by boards looking to improve their performance. This involves ensuring that the board is equipped with the right mix of abilities in creating a positive atmosphere and streamlining processes. By addressing these areas, boards can drive best practices and speed up the decision-making process.
The chair of the board plays a vital part in determining how a board works. A chair who is not able to lead or coordination skills will not be able to create an environment which directors are able to offer their own views and participate in productive conversations. A chair who is unsure and overly swayed can create an environment where the board is not transparent and discussion is suppressed.
Dysfunction is among the most common issues boards face. The problem could be triggered by personal conflicts between board members or may be due to inadequate structures that allow the board to fulfill its accountability for performance evaluation. Leaving these responsibilities to the board as a whole, or delegating them to the executive committee is often a route to poor oversight.
The ability of a board to access and analyze data is another crucial factor. Having access to the right information can greatly improve board effectiveness and enable boards to make more informed decisions. However, many boards have ineffective processes for sharing and sourcing information. It is difficult to improve the performance of a board unless this problem is addressed.