How to Write Effective Board Decision Papers

Board decision documents can be a helpful tool to help directors make informed decisions. They are written to provide the necessary information and analysis boards require to evaluate and approve any proposed decision. They can be used to discuss major capital investments and subsequent revenue implications, acquisitions/dispositions, introducing new services or changing existing ones, organisational structure changes, budgetary decisions, granting contracts or joint www.boardroomofficial.com/preparing-your-nonprofit-board-for-a-fundraising-campaign/ ventures etc.

The best boards papers begin by stating their purpose, whether it is for information or discussion. They also include the recommendations of the board. The paper should include a brief background on the subject, which should include an executive summary (ideally not more than one paragraph of 4 - a few lines), and a detailed explanation of the strategies, risks, and financial information. It should also provide an overview of alternatives and why this approach is appropriate for the organization.

Many board development experts and chairs we spoke with suggested that executive teams utilize a format that is focused on decisions for their documents. The headings of the paper should reflect the decision that needs to be made, rather than being arranged by thematic. This helps boards to process the information more efficiently and encourages them to consider how they can take each problem.

When writing your board-based papers Be sure to edit the content until you are satisfied that it's concise and easy to understand. It is always useful to take a break from the draft at night and read it over again the next morning with a fresh pair of eyes.