A non-profit's management is often a job that is filled by volunteers who are enthusiastic about the cause. While the work can be rewarding however, it's not always simple. Board management is among the most challenging aspects of the job. Board members can get distracted by the bigger picture of their duties and overlook the smaller details that are essential to keep the nonprofit running smoothly. This can be manifested in large ways, like the decision to hire an Executive Director, or in small ones, like making a decision on the price for a service that is featured.

There are a variety of resources to help board members effectively manage their responsibility. According to the Leading with Intent guide from 2015 the most important responsibilities for board members are fundraising, financial oversight as well as community-building and advocacy. It is vital that every member of the board understands the responsibilities they have and is able to fulfill them effectively.

Boards can be organized into diverse committees that can help them organize their tasks and improve overall performance. A committee for fundraising events, for instance is able to be in charge of event planning and management of the donor database. A different committee could be responsible for attracting new members, orienting new members, and conducting performance evaluations for the board as a whole. A third committee could focus on the internal operations of the board and processes like policy development, while a fourth might focus on governance.

Whatever the structure of the board, it should be well-staffed and equipped with tools that simplify the responsibilities of board members and encourage open communication and transparency. Board software, like, can streamline meeting logistics, and help you stay on top of your duties.