In today’s fast-paced digital environment, more organizations expect their boards of directors to conduct board business more efficiently. This requires effective board collaboration. The right collaboration software enables board members to manage complex governance tasks, streamline communication, and improve decision-making.
Looking to boost board engagement, productivity, and effectiveness? Look for board collaboration software that offers the 5 features outlined below.
What is Board Collaboration Software?
Board collaboration software, also known as a board portal platform, offers a board of directors the tools they need to attain efficient board management. It enables boards to manage meetings, track progress, and collaborate efficiently, regardless of location.
This software is ideal for boards looking to improve organization, transparency, and productivity, especially when dealing with complex governance issues or working remotely. Boards may invest in this software to overcome common pain points such as poor communication, inefficient document management, or a lack of secure voting mechanisms, all of which can hinder effective decision-making.
Ensure effective, efficient meetings with our comprehensive Board Meeting Agenda Template.
Board Collaboration Software Features
Next-generation (“next-gen”) board collaboration software uses the latest technology to help boards and members at large streamline efficiency while keeping documents safely and securely stored. Investing in the wrong software solution for an organization may not address the real-world needs of the team.
Boards should look for the following features:
1. Agenda Creation
A well-crafted agenda helps ensure discussions stay on track, deadlines are met, and all board members arrive prepared for meetings. But the agenda creation process can be tedious. Look for board portal software with agenda creation tools, such as the ability to create templates, drag-and drop capabilities, and real-time collaboration.
2. Meeting Minutes
Taking accurate board meeting minutes is crucial for ensuring transparency and accountability. Manually recording minutes can lead to inconsistencies or missed details, so it’s important to have a tool that automates the process. Board collaboration software should offer features like minute templates, automatic task tracking, and the ability to attach notes directly to specific agenda items. These tools simplify the process, allowing board members to focus on participation rather than documentation.
3. Voting and Approvals
Efficient decision-making is a cornerstone of effective governance, and voting is a key part of that process. Look for board collaboration software that includes secure, built-in voting and approval features. These tools allow boards to make quick, confidential decisions—whether during a meeting or asynchronously—and keep records of each vote for future reference. The ability to set up anonymous voting, designate required approvals, and track voting results in real-time ensures decisions are made smoothly and transparently, promoting greater accountability within the board.
4. D&O Questionnaire
With built-in director and officer questionnaires, you can ask a variety of questions, and quickly generate comprehensive reports and gain valuable insights to inform board decisions and strategies. Look for software that supports customizable templates, allows secure responses, and generates detailed analytics to better evaluate risk and board member accountability, contributing to more informed decision-making.
5. Video Conferencing
Lastly, a must for board collaboration is video conferencing, which allows boards to convene and collaborate no matter where members are. Ensure the platform integrates with common web conferencing tools while maintaining security. Look for capabilities such as high-definition video, screen sharing, and chat functionality, which enhance engagement and streamline communication. Built-in recording and secure access links can further support post-meeting review and compliance.
Getting Started With OnBoard
When it comes to board collaboration, OnBoard has you covered. In addition to the five features listed above, the platform offers:
- A dashboard that serves as a centralized hub of information, delivering actionable insights to power your governance.
- Full feature mobile experience to support board members on the go.
- Notes and annotations feature that allows members to share insights directly on board materials.
- Secure instant messenger for private, protected conversations.
Whether you serve a corporate board or nonprofit board, and no matter your board member position, OnBoard’s platform has tools to empower you to do your best work.
Check out our Board Management Software Buyer’s Guide for tips on selecting the board management tool that best meets your organization’s needs.
The comprehensive blueprint for selecting a results-driven board management vendor.
About The Author
- Adam Wire is a Content Marketing Manager at OnBoard who joined the company in 2021. A Ball State University graduate, Adam worked in various content marketing roles at Angi, USA Football, and Adult & Child Health following a 12-year career in newspapers. His favorite part of the job is problem-solving and helping teammates achieve their goals. He lives in Indianapolis with his wife and two dogs. He’s an avid sports fan and foodie who also enjoys lawn and yard work and running.
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