Board effectiveness self-review

A board self-assessment is a critical tool for ensuring that a not-for-profit board is operating effectively, meeting its governance responsibilities, and continuously improving its performance. Regular board evaluations help identify strengths, areas for development, and potential governance risks, leading to better decision-making and stronger leadership.

By conducting a structured board performance review, organisations can:

• Improve Governance Effectiveness – Ensure the board is fulfilling its duties and complying with legal and ethical obligations.
• Enhance Decision-Making – Identify gaps in expertise or processes that may be limiting the board’s ability to make informed, strategic decisions.
• Strengthen Board Engagement – Encourage active participation, accountability, and commitment from board members.
• Increase Transparency and Accountability – Provide stakeholders with confidence that the board is functioning with integrity and oversight.
• Support Succession Planning – Assess leadership capabilities and plan for future board recruitment and succession needs.

A well-structured board self-evaluation allows organisations to reflect on their performance, set strategic priorities, and build a more effective governance structure. Download our board self-assessment tool today to strengthen your board’s impact.

The ICDA website hosts both free and cost-friendly options for board evaluation. These board evaluation tools have been created by both ICDA and partner organisations, such as Board Surveys.

A board performance review is an essential process that helps ensure a not-for-profit board is functioning effectively and meeting its governance responsibilities. A well-structured review provides valuable insights into board strengths, areas for improvement, and ways to enhance decision-making and leadership. Here’s a step-by-step guide to conducting a successful board evaluation:

1. Define the Purpose and Objectives

Before starting, determine what you want to achieve with the board assessment. Common objectives include:

• Evaluating board effectiveness in governance and decision-making.
• Identifying gaps in skills, knowledge, or engagement.
• Strengthening accountability and board relationships.

2. Choose the Right Assessment Method

There are several ways to conduct a board performance review, including:

• Self-assessment surveys – Board members complete structured questionnaires to evaluate their individual and collective performance.
• 360-degree feedback – Input from key stakeholders, including staff, executives, and external advisors.
• Facilitated board reviews – Engaging an external governance expert to conduct an independent assessment.

3. Use a Standardised Board Self-Assessment Tool

A well-designed board evaluation template helps ensure consistency and meaningful results. The assessment should cover:

• Board roles and responsibilities.
• Strategic decision-making effectiveness.
• Board meeting structure and participation.
• Risk management and compliance oversight.
• Board culture, leadership, and communication.

4. Collect and Analyse Responses

Once board members complete the assessment, compile the results to identify trends and key insights. Look for patterns in strengths and weaknesses, and highlight areas that need improvement.

5. Discuss Findings and Develop an Action Plan

Schedule a board performance review meeting to discuss the results. Key steps include:

• Reviewing major takeaways from the assessment.
• Identifying areas that need immediate attention.
• Setting clear action items to improve board effectiveness.
• Assigning accountability for follow-up and progress tracking.

6. Implement and Monitor Progress

A board self-assessment is not just a one-time exercise—it should lead to continuous improvement. Reassess progress regularly, update governance practices, and integrate feedback into board development plans.