modes of governance

Governing bodies may operate in a variety of modes.

There are five basic mode types, as shown in the diagram below, and a governing body may alternate between these to suit different situations.

It is therefore important for a governing body to understand the different modes and when to apply them.

A board may adopt more than one mode type at any particular time if necessary.

Modes of governance diagram Click on the diagram to go to the page you need.

Knowing which mode is appropriate for a given situation is important, and will enable a board to govern with confidence.

Thinking back over the past few months, have you been aware of your governing board operating in different modes? If yes, what have they been?
How do you know which mode(s) to use?
Have the different modes of operation always been appropriate?
Do you need to strengthen your governing board's ability to recognise the most appropriate mode(s) to use?
Could you make use of modes of governance to improve your governing board's effectiveness?

governance good practice guide