Board decision papers supply board because of the information that they need to understand, kind and help to make decisions that may determine the destiny of an enterprise. They can also be the source of controversies and legal action if they are not written well enough or if they contain incorrect info.

A good table paper need to first indicate the purpose ~ information only, discussion or seeking a conclusion – and if seeking a choice, then the correct wording of the resolution to be put to the board that would appear in the meeting moments (if accredited without amendment). It is in that case important to give the background relating to the matter being considered by board. This should include an executive summary (not higher than a single section of 4 – a few lines) and a brief description of the proposed resolution and what the outcome will probably be. A brief summary of alternatives should be included if relevant, along with a explanation of how the most well-liked recommendation was selected and key criteria used to measure success.

The standard paper should then provide details of how the proposal will line-up, support or perhaps advance agreed strategic and business plans. It should likewise highlight any significant economical implications of the decision and any important risks board decision papers that need to be regarded as. Any detailed technical data or statistics should be given in appendices so that the main body of this paper is targeted on the main issues that the board has to consider.