Policy Governance answers the fundamental question board members ask: How do we govern with excellence?

Policy Governance® improves boards

Imagine having the task of redesigning the rules for how boards should function.  If we started from scratch, would we build a better system of governance?  That is what John Carver did more than thirty years ago when he developed Policy Governance.  Sometimes called the Carver Model, Policy Governance is the first coherent system through which boards direct and protect their organizations.

Policy Governance boards direct their organization

Policy Governance places the board in charge of setting the purpose and direction of the organization.  Boards are still encouraged to fulfill important roles such as fundraising, but above all, the board must govern.  Boards need to understand the mission: How will this organization make the world better?  In Policy Governance, the board spends its time defining how the community or world will improve as a result of the organization’s work.  By defining the organization’s benefit to society, it is easier to demonstrate why the organization is valuable and deserves donations and grants.

Policy Governance clearly delegates authority to the executive directors or CEO

Policy Governance creates a strong senior executive position making it easier attract and retain the highest quality professional leader. No more micromanaging the executive.  The board sets thoughtful expectations for what the organization should accomplish and allows the executive to perform his or her job.

Policy Governance boards protect their organization

Policy Governance creates a simple system for ensuring the health and stability of the organization.  The board proactively considers risks and monitors that its concerns are constructively addressed.  No more surprises.

Read more about Policy Governance

Policy Governance Enhances Board’s Value (3 pages) by Barry Diamond

Policy Governance in Nonprofits (22 pages) by John Carver

Policy Governance Source Document (3 pages) by International Policy Governance Association

 

Barry Diamond, Policy Governance expert

Barry Diamond is one of a handful of consultants personally trained by John Carver, the creator of Policy Governance. Barry also has twenty years of experience in nonprofit leadership and management, having served on local, regional, and national positions.

Policy Governance® is the registered service mark of John Carver.  The authoritative website for the Policy Governance® model can be found at www.CarverGovernance.com.