Boards of not-for-profit entities have a responsibility to steward and safeguard the programs, services, and resources of their organizations. Sometimes this work is straightforward; other times it is difficult and challenging. In changing or turbulent times, it is the latter. Challenging times can be the result of many factors including changes in policy direction, funding stresses, increased competition, or shifting public expectations.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re unsure about the right time<\/em> for a Board to consider integration or merger options, these are some of the signals to look for:<\/p>\n There are a variety of strategies to address these challenges, ranging from improving current practices to sharing services with other organizations (e.g., back office) to complete organizational mergers. An effective Board will address organizational challenges through informed discussion, identification of options, and objective analysis. This should not be threatening to boards; on the contrary, board members should understand that they have a duty to act in the best interest of the organization and its clients and that in changing times this may require bold new strategies.<\/p>\n By Melodie Zarzeczny<\/p>\n NFP Governance & Project Management<\/p>\n\n
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