How to Address Board Performance Problems
Boards that want to improve performance require a comprehensive strategy. This includes ensuring that the board has the correct mix of skills, creating a positive culture and streamlining processes. By addressing these critical areas, boards will be able implement best practices and speed the process of making decisions.
The Chair of the board plays a critical part in determining how the board performs. A chair who is not able to lead or coordination skills will not be able to create a space which directors are able to provide their unique views and participate in productive discussions. Similarly, a chair who is too controlling and unsecure can create a situation in which the board isn’t transparent and hinders discussion.
Dysfunction is one of the most common issues boards confront. The problem could be caused by personal conflicts among board members or it can be the result of insufficient structures that help the board fulfill its accountability for performance evaluation. The decision to leave these duties to the board in its entirety or assigning them to the executive committee often leads to a lack of oversight.
Another important aspect to consider is the performance of the board in regards to its ability to access and process information. Being able to access the correct information can greatly enhance board efficiency and allow boards to make better decisions. However there are many boards that have ineffective methods for sourcing and sharing information. If this issue is not addressed, it will be difficult for a board to improve its performance.