What is a good format for a board audit?
- A board should review its performance and make-up on a regular cycle using constructive processes for reviewing the performance of individual directors or trustees, the chair, and the board as a unit.
- A board audit should show not only the skills that a board may or may not have, but also the diversity of a board in terms of, for example, its ethnicity, experience and age. It also should reflect whether it is representative of its sector and the constituency to whom it is aiming to appeal. The importance of lived experience is becoming more recognised.
- A board audit also helps with succession planning. Regular monitoring is needed when board retirements are approaching to see what skills/experience/knowledge need to be replaced.
- Don’t forget to include digital experience: An understanding of the use and impact of AI tools, use of social media, handling of databases and other up-to-date technology are ever-growing fields where board knowledge is vital. (The Charity Commission recently issued an official warning to a charity for failing to effectively manage social media).
Download Board Audit template here
