What are the most common mistakes to avoid when evaluating board performance?

1 Not having clear objectives

One of the biggest mistakes to avoid when evaluating board performance is not having clear and agreed-upon objectives for the evaluation. Without clear objectives, the evaluation will lack focus, relevance, and direction. The board should decide what they want to achieve from the evaluation, what questions they want to answer, and what criteria they want to use to measure their performance. The objectives should be aligned with the organization's mission, vision, values, and strategy, as well as the expectations of the stakeholders.

3 Not following a structured process

A third common mistake to avoid when evaluating board performance is not following a structured and consistent process for the evaluation. A structured process can help the board ensure that the evaluation is comprehensive, objective, transparent, and actionable. A structured process can include the following steps: defining the objectives and scope of the evaluation, selecting the methods and tools for data collection and analysis, engaging the board members and external stakeholders in the evaluation, reporting and communicating the results and recommendations, and implementing and monitoring the action plan.

4 Not using multiple methods and tools

A fourth common mistake to avoid when evaluating board performance is not using multiple methods and tools for data collection and analysis. Using multiple methods and tools can help the board capture a more complete and accurate picture of their performance, and reduce the biases and limitations of any single method or tool. Some of the common methods and tools for board evaluation include surveys, interviews, focus groups, observations, document reviews, performance indicators, scorecards, and dashboards. The board should select the methods and tools that are appropriate for their objectives, context, and resources.

5 Not acting on the results

A fifth common mistake to avoid when evaluating board performance is not acting on the results of the evaluation. The evaluation will be meaningless and wasteful if the board does not use the results to improve their performance and governance. The board should develop a realistic and prioritized action plan based on the results and recommendations of the evaluation, assign responsibilities and timelines for the implementation, and communicate the plan to the relevant stakeholders. The board should also monitor and review the progress and impact of the action plan, and make adjustments as needed.