The article gives examples from NASA (HST), Volkswagen and Wirecard to show how boards are prone to miss early warning signs that could lead to a hazard. The article stresses the importance of recognizing early warning signs and acting on these warning signs and acting on. This can be done by using a the proper management of a board review process that assists boards evaluate their own performance and effectiveness.
The authors emphasize the need for boards to review their own performance, as well as the performance of the of the organization, in order to identify any gaps and opportunities for improvement. They also emphasize the importance of using outside experts expert knowledge to ensure the board agenda is comprehensive.
A board room review is a procedure which examines the performance of a board of directors with respect to the ideal demands of the business. It could be an internal assessment with a world-class benchmarked tool like those from Board Surveys, or a customized external assessment that is tailored to the requirements and demands of the organization.
It is crucial that the boardroom be an area where people can freely and candidly discuss issues. They should be able focus on the task without being distracted or interrupted, and feel at ease discussing sensitive issues. A conference room with big trestle-style tables and chairs can be helpful. It should also feature a soundproofed space to ensure that conversations are private. Technology advancements like Bloomberg plug ins or the most current quotation systems can help. Virtual meeting rooms can allow members to participate in meetings at their offices, homes or even from airplanes, assisting to make the process more convenient for them and their colleagues.