Good practice for virtual board and committee meetings

With the current uncertainty around the impact of COVID-19 and the limitations on travel and face to face meetings, most boards and board committees (as well as many other bodies) will for the foreseeable future have to meet virtually.

The Institute has published new guidance, produced jointly with Lorraine Young Board Advisory Services, on what constitutes good practice in the conduct of virtual board and committee meetings. The purpose of the guidance is to offer a brief guide to the practical and legal issues that need consideration, and to offer insight into how virtual meetings can be made as effective as possible.

Key points covered in the guidance are:

• Choosing the right technology and communication channel
• Structuring virtual meetings and avoiding complexity
• The value of preparation
• Establishing ground rules for the meeting
• Clear instructions on accessing the meeting
• The necessity for good boardroom practices

The guidance can be downloaded here.