Why a Board Review?

In the current climate of increasing focus on compliance and accountability, it is important to undertake regular reviews of the operations and effectiveness of the Board.

This Review aims to identify areas where the Board is performing strongly, and areas where improvements can be made, with reference to key principles of governance. The survey has been designed to explore knowledge and behaviours, uncover assumptions, identify gaps, and prompt self-reflection.

The overall goal of the Board Review is to ensure effectiveness of the Board so that the organisation can achieve its mission and serve its members.

How The Board Review is Conducted

A survey of 40 questions will be distributed to your Board by email, and they will be requested to complete the survey within 10 days.  The survey typically takes about 20 minutes to complete. 

The responses are then collated, analysed and interpreted by Matrix on Board consultants.

The results are presented as follows:

• A report, including findings, recommendations and all responses (see SAMPLE REPORT attached)

• Individual reports, for each Board member of their own responses, provided to them upon completion of the survey for their reference.

Analysis and Interpretation

Matrix on Board undertakes the analysis based on:

• A practical understanding of what Board members need to know and do in order to fulfill the obligations of the role

• Substantial experience in guiding and training not for profit Boards on their governance responsibilities

• Personal experience within our team as volunteer Board members of NFP organisations

• With reference to the AICD Not For Profit Governance Principles, which are summarized in Appendix A.  AICD’s full and snapshot reports can be viewed at https://aicd.companydirectors.com.au/resources/not-for-profit-resources/not-for-profit-governance-principles

Consultation after the Survey is completed

Survey-Only: We will schedule a 1 hour meeting by phone or Zoom between a representative of your Board / management and one of our Consultants.  At this meeting, our Consultant will run through the report and findings with you, and discuss recommendations and suggestions for how you use the findings with your Board. 

Survey + Workshop: We will agree on a suitable time to meet with the whole Board for a 2-3 hour facilitated workshop, presenting the results and facilitating discussion and agreement about priorities and actions to be taken.  We can meet with you on weekends or evenings if this is what will suit your Board best. Based on the survey, and discussions and agreements in the workshop, we will provide you with a tailored Board Development Plan  to address the specific needs of your Board.  

Additional Options:  Matrix is happy to discuss with you other support and assistance we can provide to support your Board in implementing the recommendations in the Board Development Plan and any other governance or consulting needs you may have. A proposal and quote for additional services will be provided as appropriate.