Boards: A Practical Perspective

by Patrick E. Dunne

Boards provides a practical, realistic, thought-provoking and useful guide to life as a board member. It is split into three areas, 'Purpose', 'People' and 'Process' reflecting the three key areas of concern for any board. This is combined with the fourth section which sets out a series of real life dilemmas for readers to practice on, making this book an ideal companion for anyone who is an aspirant, novice or seasoned board member. Drawing on Patrick's extensive range of experience working with and on boards in many sectors, in the UK and internationally, it is equally applicable to business, charities and social enterprises, professional services firms, public bodies and universities. The book is also written in a highly accessible and engaging style that brings life and fun to what is a very serious topic.

Revised Second Edition

422 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2021

Reviews

[Josephine Olok · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great reading and good guidance provided for boards using the key themes of Purpose, People and Process. A comprehensive reference which also provides key learnings from the Dilemmas section.

[Brad Revell · Rating 5 out of 5]

My review is here: https://www.bradrevell.com/2020/05/bo...

Three key takeaways from the book:

1. Always start with the three P’s (e.g. purpose, people and process) and the three R’s (e.g. right strategy, right resources and right governance).
2. It is generally best for governance and process to be a little ahead of where the organisation currently is.
3. Regarding dilemmas – they typically occur due to four reasons: confusion on purpose (e.g. board, execs or individual role), humans are involved, a situation that has changed or money / status.