For boards that are eager to improve on their role and contributions to the organization, there is a substantial gain from adopting and developing the practice of Policy GovernanceŽ. Centerboard Associates provides a comprehensive and personal approach that uses a fast track six-month process to accomplish this transition. During this period the board and its executive will experience most of the benefits found from the Model. The following steps generally describe the recommended process for complete set-up for non-profit boards, and will be customized in the final proposal to account for unique organizational needs.


  • Knowledge and Understanding of the Model

    • Understanding Principles, Common Practice, & Commitment

  • Policy Customization, Blitz Writing

    • Set of Start-Up Policies for the Board, written by the board

  • Transition Planning

    • Comprehensive Plan for the Next Six Months

  • Strategic Visioning

  • Creating a Planning (Ends) Document

  • Implementation Support

    • Role Consultation, Meeting Monitoring, Technical Assistance


Description of Consultant Services

The consultant's role is to educate, facilitate, model behaviors and roles, and provide technical assistance to the Board, its Chairperson and executive. A complete transition plan is developed with the board's Chairperson and CEO that will guide the business of the board for the next six months. The plan will include agenda design, Ends development and refinement plan, Ownership Linkage plan, and the resulting Monitoring Schedule and Reports that demonstrate CEO and organization accountability. The Consultant will support and coach the board and executive practice of the new processes, rules, and behaviors that produce the benefits of following the principles and policies. By the end of six months, boards and CEOs generally report satisfaction and excitement with the new governance model, the role clarification, the process of decision-making, the accountability checks, and a new engagement of board energy for the mission/vision of the organization.