Structures

"Developing appropriate structures" for the board and the organization is a vital responsibility of a non-profit board of directors, according the Panel on Accountability and Governance in the Voluntary Sector.

What are "structures"?

Structures are those things that bring order, predictability, control, stability and clarity to your organization. Check out some examples of structures that might be part of your organization.

In an unstructured or inappropriately structured organization, chaos often rules. When suitable structures are lacking, roles and responsibilities are unclear, gaps and inefficiencies occur, and one arm of the organization may not know what the other is doing.

No particular structure will work for every organization. The form and complexity of structures will vary among non-profits, depending on the size, nature and needs of the organization.

Building solid structures

Despite the structural differences among organizations, one thing holds true for all non-profits: it is the responsibility of the board to structure itself and the organization in ways that effectively serve the interests of its membership and the public. Learn some tips for ensuring solid structures.

To determine whether your board is fulfilling its responsibility to develop appropriate structures, have a look at these performance indicators.

The old adage that "form follows function" is perhaps one of the best guideposts your board can use to ensure the structures it creates are appropriate, effective and efficient. Focus on the results you are hoping to achieve through these structures, the tasks or functions you must carry out and the roles you must fulfill. Often, the needed structures or forms will then be more evident to the board.

If you would like to confirm your understanding of your board's responsibility for developing appropriate structures, try your skills at solving structural issues.

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