The success of an organisation will be determined in part by the way it is structured and managed. Management structures, systems and procedures and the role of boards, staff and volunteers should be considered when assessing the performance of an organisation.

Organisations may increase their success by ensuring they:

• develop and regularly review effective processes for selecting and inducting board and management committee members
  
• identify opportunities for ongoing development
  
• ensure paid and volunteer workers understand their roles and responsibilities, particularly those on boards and committees
  
• develop and regularly review strategic plans to ensure the organisation is moving in the right direction, as agreed through a strategic planning process
  
• develop long-term recruitment, training, retention and recognition processes for volunteers.
  
  
  

Leading by example:

Organisations that excel in organisational management have the following characteristics in common. They all:

• provide a welcoming environment for volunteers
  
• value and recognise the work of volunteers
  
• solve their own problems
  
• have well-prepared, committed people who share the same vision and goals
  
• plan their operations and activities strategically
  
• have a strong desire to improve their operations.
  
  

For organisations wishing to assess their organisational performance in relationship to leadership, planning and volunteer management, the attached document provides a useful checklist.

Developing Excellence in Organisational Management