Many Boards cannot afford an independent Board Review. These Boards particularly in the not for profit sector are still keen to ensure they comply with best practice and review the performance of their Board effectively.

We offer Boards a helpful Do it yourself Board Review based on 6 hot questions, with challenging action points. Supporting information and advice can be downloaded from boarddevelopment.learningmatters.com/

The 6 Hot Questions are:

1. Have we recently devoted significant time and serious thought to the organisation’s longer term objectives and to options for achieving them?

Action Point: When will we next debate these and put our decisions in writing?

2. Have we discussed how we will develop, manage and protect the organisation’s reputation? (our social responsibilities, desired image, performance and risks etc).

Action Point: What policy guidelines must we give management in order for them to develop policies on for example, employment?

3. Do we periodically consider how the organisation’s structure might need to change?

Action Point: How shall we approve all senior roles and ensure appropriate development activity is in place for all staff?

4. Do we require the CEO to present their annual plans and budgets to the board for review and approval?

Action Point: How do we manage the CEO and senior team on their performance against plans and budget?

5. How do we decide what information we require to ensure effective control of the organisation? (our performance indicators for monitoring performance and assurance framework for managing and monitoring risk)

Action Point: Have we ever received any nasty surprises and what have we done as a result?

6. Do we input the time and knowledge to make important strategic decisions on investments, appointments and plans, rather than just accept Executive recommendations?

Action Point: How will we programme our Board Calendar for the next year?