How-To Tips: Implementing Practice 3e

When appropriate, consult subject matter experts or community representatives and/or include them on committees or advisory groups.

Effective governing bodies recognize the benefits of outside input as they seek to better understand and implement laws and policies and as they make decisions about the organization's programs. Information from subject matter experts and community representatives supplements and expands on the governing body's knowledge and experience. It may also offer a perspective different from that of staff or governing body and provoke richer discussion before a decision is made.

Often, committee and advisory groups serve the dual purpose of bringing expertise to the organization and providing "career ladders" on the way to governing body service. A one-time consultation or presentation to the governing body can also prove valuable. Governing body members may seek outside information in weighing resource needs and allocations to programs or in getting a handle on new regulations.

Others use outside consultation to inform strategic planning or to understand firsthand the experience of a program beneficiary. Sources for additional information and viewpoints may include partner organization staff, local higher education institutions, grantees or program beneficiaries, funders, and professional association speaker bureaus.

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