By Julie Adamen

The last two NewsLine we have been talking about the “Dumb Things Boards Do” and then how they could keep themselves from doing a lot of those Dumb Things by creating Vision and adopting and adhering to Mission Statements. Of course, the adoption of a simple statement, done perfunctorily, with little discussion and member input and then promptly left to rot in the “New Business” section of the minutes, won’t do a damn thing. So, let’s talk about Getting There from Here – and – making sure there is a “There” there. And has a good chance of staying there.

As I was writing the last articles, I know that many, many of you were thinking, “Wow, it’s a good idea, but how can I get it done? How can I make it work?”  I know that especially for portfolio managers, even trying to think about squeezing one more thing in to your day is about impossible. Here’s what we have come up with:

THE HOOK

In the past months I have been doing some consulting to various Boards of Directors. One thing I find is that many of them simply do not have an understanding of the power they have in the creation of the future reality of their community – they simply become focused on the problem at hand because that is all they know. They pretty much don’t think about Vision Creation. How can we get them thinking? What’s our hook that is simple, yet practical?

THE VISION QUESTIONNAIRE

In the body of our newsletter, you will find a simple tool to hopefully get your Boards thinking. It’s not meant to be the end answer to the issues about which we have been speaking. It’s meant to be a starting point on which to build an understanding of the Board(s) for the Board(s). Please click THE VISION QUESTIONNAIRE for this document.

My suggested  follow up on The Vision Questionnaire is Robert A. Felix's 38 powerful points that show great Board Development. Click on Today's Board and review Robert's list. I think you will agree that they are indeed desirable for any Board to embrace and strive for.
Robert A. Felix, CMCA, LSM PCAM is President of Consolidated Community Services, LLC and can be reached at 303.344.8868 or

NOW WHAT?

Unfortunately, we are space restricted and must continue the Vision Creation process next month. But as a preview, the next steps, based on point accumulation, will have to do with Strategic Planning. Not to worry, we won’t leave you hanging there – and we have suggestions so you and your community(ies) won’t have to go it alone.  Stay Tuned.