How can NEDs / board members stay strategic?

Much has been written in recent years about the governance of organisations, boards and directors. Many different views have been expressed. With it, different understandings of the function of boards have emerged. In some quarters, 'governance' has become a panacea for all manner of organisational ills. Others speak and behave as if the board is a beating stick to 'keep the executive honest'. Relatively few have held true to the original concept (kybernetes: to steer, to guide to pilot). Consequently, it is little wonder that some new board members can be unclear about their role. 

The task of governance includes decision-making that affects the long-term future of the organisation. In other words, strategy and strategic decision-making. While the plethora of understandings abound, the question of how NEDs and board members ensure they stay strategic remains.

​I had the honour and privilege of hosting an on-line forum recently to discuss this question. A large community of UK-based board members gather every week to discuss governance matters of interest.  A summary of the discussion that I was involved with has been posted here, on Storify. Enjoy!

If you have any questions, or want to explore matters further, please get in touch.