Category Governing Documents

When Committees Aren’t Set Up to Succeed

Committees are supposed to make things easier. More focus, more progress, and less burden on the full board. But without clear direction, they can end up doing a lot of work that goes nowhere. A story I still think about Early…

KPIs vs. OKRs: What Nonprofit Boards Should Really Focus On

Strategic planning loves its acronyms. And few get tossed around more casually—or confused more often—than KPIs and OKRs. They sound alike, show up in the same conversations, and occasionally spark more debate than they probably deserve.  But here’s the truth:…

The Micromanaging Board: How to Pull Back Without Checking Out

If you’ve ever sat in a board meeting and thought, “Why are we spending 20 minutes debating font sizes on the gala invitation?” — this one’s for you.  Micromanagement is the boardroom version of helicopter parenting. It often comes from…

Why Board Orientation Isn’t Optional (And What to Include)

Let’s get one thing clear: board orientation is not a nice-to-have—it’s a must. It’s more than a welcome packet or a PowerPoint at the first meeting. Orientation is a strategic investment in your board’s effectiveness, your organization’s stability, and the…

The Risk-Reward Equation: How to Assess Risks as a Board

Introduction: Calculated Risks for Lasting Success  For boards, taking risks can feel daunting—but avoiding them altogether is often a greater gamble. As organizations evolve, boards must consider bold moves that keep them relevant and innovative. However, not all risks are…

Navigating Non-Profit Leadership Without Emotional Bias

Many people involved in the non-profit sector have generous hearts and strive to make a positive impact on the world, which is truly commendable. Despite this, it is important to distinguish when generosity crosses the line, where decisions are more…