A well-written report on the board can help a board committee communicate effectively with the entire board. In order to create efficient reports, it is important to consider carefully the best way to structure and present the content to ensure that board members have the information they require to make the best decisions for the company.
While writing a board report may be challenging for some, with the right method, it is possible to write engaging and informative committee reports that assist in informed decision-making and efficient oversight. The following are some of the essential elements to consider when preparing a report for your board.
1. Clearly state the purpose of your report, states Barbara Anderson, non-executive director and chair on four boards. This is crucial to the effectiveness of any paper on the board as it informs your busy readers if you’re writing to inform, ask for their opinions or request an opinion.
2. Avoid using too much jargon or technical language, and be certain of the meaning of what you’re sharing. Board members have a lot of work to do and will likely be reading your report ahead of the meeting to formulate factors that impact nonprofit success their questions, so they have to be able be able to absorb the information quickly and easily.
3. Offer a clear analysis and interpretation of the data you present. Data alone does not tell the whole story; it has to be presented with analysis and interpretation in order to provide meaning to the numbers. This will make your board members aware of the positives and challenges facing your company.
