Definitions
Governance is defined in a variety of ways:
- Structurally (for example, having a constitution)
- Processes (for example, having sub-committees in positions of responsibility)
- Roles and functions
- Group dynamics (teamwork)
- Individual competence (for example, chairing skills)
A more comprehensive way of looking at governance is to view it as the sum of these perspectives. One way of connecting all of these aspects of governance is to visualize a governance system (see below). The individual competencies and resulting group dynamics between the individuals can be seen as the inputs into the system. Those skills and group processes are then applied through the structures and processes that are in place, resulting in governance (the outputs).
For example, a governance "output" (or function) is to be accountable for the organisation. This is achieved by the individual trustees using their skills in evaluation and analysis, applying them in the group setting through the committee using committee structures (such as a meeting) and processes (an agenda).
Read more about this topic: Small Charity Governance
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