Action Items List will improve board followup
© Can Stock Photo/ivelinradkov
At our nonprofit workshop last Saturday, someone asked, “How can you get board members to do what is agreed upon by the group at large?” One of the best tools to improve board followup is an Action Items List.
This is a simple document, maintained by the secretary, that lists each action a board member has agreed to undertake. We recommend a table in landscape format, with columns for the task, the date assigned, the date due, who is responsible, and the status. Ideally, an updated list goes out with each agenda, so everyone knows where things are.
It’s remarkable how easily tasks can slip between the cracks. By using an Action Items List, all board members can keep focused, accomplish their tasks, and better serve your nonprofit organization.
Sample Action Items List
The Dinoville Service Club planned its annual Halloween Party at its meeting on October 1. Here is the Action Items List from its October 15 board meeting.
DINOVILLE SERVICE CLUB BOARD
ACTION ITEMS LIST as of October 15, 2018 Board Meeting
| Date assigned | Task | Responsible | Date due | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oct. 1, 2018 | Confirm venue | Social Chair | Oct. 10, 2018 | complete |
| Oct. 1, 2018 | Buy balloons | Party Guy | Oct. 31, 2018 | complete |
| Oct. 1, 2018 | Buy candy | Active Dad | Oct. 31, 2018 | in process |
| Oct. 1, 2018 | Create costumes | Board members | Oct. 31, 2018 | in process |
Integrate Action Items List into the agenda
At some point near the beginning of the meeting, the secretary should review the list with the board noting any status changes. While completed items can be dropped off the list, a record of them should be kept and can be used in communications with nonprofit stakeholders via a newsletter, annual report, or some other communication channel.
At the end of the board meeting, the secretary should review any additions to the Action Items List that were made during the meeting. This way any errors can be corrected, and all responsible parties are clear on their tasks.
Improve board followup
We also recommend keeping a separate list of all motions passed by the board. Using an Action Items List will improve board followup and strengthen your nonprofit board’s significant work for your community.
