Written consent agendas are a governing tool that helps nonprofit boards streamline their meeting procedures. They blend routine and non-controversial topics into an organized grouping that can be then voted on and approved in the minutes of the board. This can result in shorter meetings and more time to discuss high-priority subjects.

Typically, these routine matters include financial reports (with accompanying budgets) committee updates, the approval of the most recent draft of the board’s meeting agenda and other non-controversial issues. These items are on the agenda before the meeting, then reviewed by board members, and then voted on as a block at the start of the meeting.

Before voting, the chairperson of the board can ask if a board data room member wishes to move a specific item from the consent agenda to the regular discussion section of the meeting. This allows each board member to clarify or raise any questions prior to the grouping is decided on and also ensures that no unintentional issue was overlooked during the process of gathering information to be approved by the board.

A well-crafted consent agenda can be a valuable tool for boards of nonprofit organizations to use for meeting efficiency as well as promoting board director engagement, and improving productivity. It is crucial to remember, however, that the consent agenda shouldn’t be used for matters that require extensive discussion or careful review, or when a discussion could change the outcome or impact of the issue. It is only used to address issues that can be negotiated without debate, and the outcome of all votes must be recorded in the board’s minutes.