Governance Reviews: An Introduction
Good governance is an important part of any successful nonprofit organization. A well-run board, that does its work effectively, sets the tone for accountability, strategy, leadership, and ultimately, impact. But boards often fall into outdated habits, doing things the way their predecessors’ predecessors did. They often operate with unclear roles and fail to undertake the most important responsibilities of a board well. And frequently the largest problem is that boards don’t recognize their blind spots and lack the expertise to make improvements. That’s where a governance review comes in.
Our governance reviews are structured processes tailored to each specific organization and board, that examine how your organization is led, how decisions are made, and how effectively your board supports your mission. A governance review provides the opportunity to strengthen your organization’s foundation and align your leadership with today’s expectations.
What Is a Governance Review?
A governance review (or governance audit) looks at the structures, practices, and relationships that underpin how your board and organization function. It involves reviewing key documents like bylaws and policies, observing board meetings, conducting interviews with board members and staff, and comparing your practices to modern standards, sector benchmarks, as well as your organization’s values and vision.
But beyond the technical elements, a governance review is about understanding the board and how it operates, figuring out what’s working, what’s not, and what’s getting in the way. This process offers an outside, expert perspective that boards often need but rarely have access to.
Why Organizations Do Governance Reviews
Boards are filled with well-meaning, committed individuals. But that doesn’t mean that they are necessarily operating effectively. While governance is not rocket science, there are practices that help boards, and certainly practices that hinder their effectiveness, and ultimately the organizations success. A review can help to identify misalignments between structure and strategy, clarify roles and responsibilities, and ensure that time around the board table is spent on what matters most
Sometimes a governance review is prompted by some issues, challenge or conflict. Funders or partners force it on the organization to help them clean up their act. But more and more, organizations are turning to reviews proactively. Whether your organization is growing, shifting priorities, or simply want to improve, a governance review helps you understand how well your governance supports your mission, and what may need to change.
What Are the Outcomes?
A governance review gives your board the clarity and confidence to lead more effectively. It helps identify what’s working, what’s missing, and where you can improve.
After a governance review with The Governance Guru your board will have:
- Clear roles and responsibilities so the board and staff each know what’s theirs to lead
- Stronger meetings that focus on strategy, decisions, and impact—not just updates
- Better alignment with your mission and goals, so board time supports what really matters
- Up-to-date policies and structures that reflect today’s standards and your organization’s needs
- A more engaged board, with members who understand their role and feel confident doing it
- Support the entire way through!
It’s not just about documents—it’s about building a board that’s ready to lead your organization forward.
Why It’s Worth It
A governance review isn’t about pointing fingers or allocating blame. It’s about giving your board the tools and insight to be its best. Most boards don’t have time to step back and ask: Are we doing this well? Are we set up for the future? And even if they did, few boards have the expertise of The Governance Guru to identify opportunities and risks.
This is your chance to find out, and to build something stronger. If your board is feeling stuck, unclear, or just ready to improve, a governance review is one of the best investments you can make. It’s how good boards become great ones. Reach out to see how The Governance Guru can help.
