Keys to Writing Effective Board Decision Papers
Board decision papers provide the data and information that empowers directors to understand, shape and make decisions that determine the future of their organization. They can also cause controversy and legal action if they are not written properly or contain inaccurate or inadequate information. The importance of high-quality decision papers is not overstated.
What are the key elements to writing a great board paper? Managing the flow of information is essential. This means managing the amount of information provided to a board, and the way the information is presented. Board documents should be brief and comprehensive while communicating an explicit call-to-action.
The challenge for writers is to resist the temptation to include too much detail in a paper. This can eat up board time and detract from the main message of the paper. Another issue is writing the paper in a way that is comprehended by everyone on a board. This includes those with little or no experience with the subject covered by the paper. A formal board paper process, with clear guidelines and an effective system for evaluating the papers before they are distributed can prove beneficial.
It is vital that all board members can access the information contained in the board’s documents. This is especially important if the board comprises members with diverse backgrounds, like those from finance and marketing. A glossary of terms and acronyms can be useful. Getting peer feedback and commentary on the board documents is also beneficial as it allows fresh eyes to examine the paper and find any confusion.