Online board meetings are becoming more common in the nonprofit sector. As more boards begin to adopt video-based meetings, the amount of these meetings is increasing. Some people believe that face-to-face meetings are more effective. However, it is important to be aware of how to use virtual technology to support productive discussions and decision-making.
1. Use a board meeting tool that is simple to use.
You can make use of a variety of video conferencing platforms online that include cheap and free options to host your virtual board meeting. It is important to select the right platform for everyone on your board. If you have members that are spread across the country, or even across the globe, it’s ideal to provide a screen sharing feature. If your board is budget-conscious it may be a good idea to think about audio-only conference options for those with no video capabilities.
2. Begin the meeting with an agenda that is concise.
A more concise agenda improves the flow of your meeting and keeps the agenda from getting too long. It forces you to cover only the most important subjects and gives everyone the opportunity to speak.
3. Plan the meeting at an time that is most convenient for all participants.
You’ll need to take into consideration the location of your board members as well as the time they will be able to attend the meeting. It is also important to consider other factors that might hinder their attendance, such as early or late mornings, long commutes, and regular break times.